Senior Buyer

Senior Buyer

Conduct the most complex agency procurement actions for a diverse portfolio of complex and technical goods and services, frequently in excess of $100,000. Independently oversee strategic sourcing activities within assigned commodities to ensure that the best value is realized. Provide prompt, accurate, and responsive procurement support to the University by applying the principles of competition and strategic sourcing to maintain the intent of the public procurement function. Conduct a variety of highly complex procurement activities to include purchasing goods and services, obtaining bids, advanced negotiations, developing reliable sources of supply, including fostering relationships with small businesses, and expediting orders. Provide accurate assistance, advice and guidance to the University community on procurement issues. Exercise considerable discretion and judgment within established procedures and authority.

Responsibilities include performing work at the highest level of difficulty related to the solicitation and execution of complex procurement contracts and review of procurement and material procedures and activities; conducting procurement activities frequently in excess of $100,000 per procurement; applying extensive industry knowledge and agency regulations in formulating the most complex term-contracts for the provision of volume goods and services purchasing services through either competitive bid (IFB), competitive negotiation (RFP), Sole Source or Emergency procurement; using critical skills and knowledge to determine best method of procurement and handle all procurement transactions within delegated authority; working independently and exercise considerable discretion and judgment within established procedures and authority; reviewing purchase requisitions submitted by University departments for accuracy and completeness; determining best method of procurement; overseeing and administering RFP's from start to finish ensuring compliance with State Law. Obtain bids/quotes and/or prepare and develop appropriate solicitation documents (IFB/RFP) evaluate, analyze, negotiate (when necessary) and award; preparing purchase orders, negotiating contracts, documenting cost savings/avoidance, and all associated documentation in a timely and accurate manner; executing contracts and purchase orders within delegated signature authority and forward for approval, where necessary; maintaining complete documentation of files, reviewing and approving/disapproving PO pricing changes; conducting and overseeing strategic sourcing activities within assigned categories; strategically reviewing all vendor spending within assigned commodities and determine compliance with Mason and State policies and procedures; leading sourcing activities within commodity and determine with departmental stakeholders how to achieve the ideal combination of service and price; customer service/vendor assistance, contract administration, order expediting, receiving, returns, invoice processing and vendor problems; assisting heads of departments and other University leaders with procurement and contractual matters by providing advice, policy interpretation and guidance; answering questions or advise University customers and/or vendors on procurement processes and procedures to minimize procurement cycle time and to enhance customer service; acting as liaison between vendors and the University in procurement related matters; assisting vendors on how to conduct business with the University; advising and encouraging SWaM vendors to certify with the SBSD; providing general contract administration on all orders and contracts to assure goods and services are provided in accordance with the agreement; supporting and assisting University departments, Central Receiving and Accounts Payable personnel to promptly resolve delivery, order status, receiving, material return, and invoice issues; resolving vendor problems, execute actions to cure when necessary and initiate timely contract renewals, extensions or re-bid process; developing reliable sources of supply, research product information, liaise with other purchasing organizations; encouraging use of SWaM vendors, where appropriate; developing alternative, reliable and responsible sources of supply for goods and services through source lists, vendor visits, market analysis, trade shows, exhibits and professional purchasing organizations; encouraging participation by small, women-owned and minority businesses and assist them with certification; and networking with other purchasing offices and universities.

Required qualifications include previous experience in a County, State, Federal or university purchasing organization as a Senior Buyer/ Contracting Officer; extensive experience in purchasing complex goods and services, developing sources of supply and resolving purchasing issues; extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of strategic sourcing, complex procurements and the ability to fully oversee all procurement activities within the assigned commodities; ability and organizational skills to handle a high volume of complex work and multiple assignments independently; frequently conducts RFPs up to three million dollars in value; ability to analyze bids, interpret specifications, negotiate open market purchases and contracts including the negotiation of complex legal and technical terms and conditions; ability to handle the most complex purchases; excellent oral and written communication skills; and professional Purchasing certification from an approved source will be required within 24 months of hire.

Preferred qualifications include Bachelor's degree in related field; CUPO, VCO, CPPB, CPPO, CPM, CPSM, FAC-C, CFCM or equivalent high level procurement certification strongly preferred; higher education experience in Virginia or Federal Government experience strongly preferred; and previous eVA and Ellucian Banner experience.