Strategic Sourcing Specialist

Job Description Position summary: The Strategic Sourcing Specialist is responsible for executing the University's sourcing strategy as it relates to the University’s Partnership Program. The person will play a critical role in delivering measurable cost savings and/or partnership engagement to the University. The Strategic Sourcing Specialist will help identify, negotiate and manage mutually beneficial relationships with external organizations to drive revenue growth, innovation and/or cost savings. The Strategic Sourcing Specialist will create these partnerships in accordance with the University’s Procurement Rules, State and Federal rules, regulations, policies and procedures Based on professional experience, knowledge, and using the highest ethical conduct, this position will facilitate procurement decisions for the University by clarifying requirements, investigating sources of supply, and interpreting and analyzing data and circumstances. This position provides procurement leadership by guiding the University and the various departments through the procurement process in order to obtain the best value for the University. Judgment is used in the adaptation and skilled application of guidelines to solve the full range of problems related to each procurement. The successful candidate will facilitate collaborative stakeholder relationships while maintaining subject matter expertise. This position requires a strong team player with a passion for providing excellent customer support and the ability to facilitate collaborative stakeholder relationships. This position is a two-year fixed term, full-time appointment, based on the CSU Fort Collins campus, with the potential for flexible work arrangements including hybrid office/remote work. The expected start date is July 1, 2026, with an end date of June 30, 2028. There is the possibility of the position becoming permanent. Full consideration date: Friday, June 26th, 2026, 11:59pm (MT) This position will remain open until filled. For full consideration, please apply by June 26, 2026, 11:59pm (MT). Essential Job Duties: Coordinate and administer the most appropriate competitive procurement method as established under the State of Colorado and Colorado State University procurement rules for procuring goods and/or services related to strategic partnerships. Ensure adherence to State and University policies and regulatory requirements. Develop competitive solicitations by conducting market analysis, interviewing stakeholders and engaging potential suppliers as appropriate. Negotiate, execute and manage contracts specific to strategic partnership procurements. Manage supplier performance and ensure compliance with contractual obligations. Build strong relationships with campus customers and deliver responsive, high-quality service. Supervision: N/A Conditions of Employment: Pre-employment background check Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and a minimum of five (5) years of professional experience in strategic sourcing or strategic procurement in public procurement OR a high school diploma and a minimum of eight (8) years of professional experience in strategic sourcing or strategic procurement in public procurement. Experience with complex, technical or high profile procurements. Demonstrated written and verbal skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office suite. Demonstrated experience in category management, supplier relationship management and leading sourcing initiatives. Preferred Qualifications: Demonstrated experience in reviewing, redlining and negotiating third-party vendor contract terms. Demonstrated experience in category management, supplier relationship management and leading System-wide or University-wide sourcing initiatives. Demonstrated experience with strategic partnership procurements. Professional certifications - CPPB, CPPO, CPM, CPSM or similar. (this should be preferred, not required) Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and all levels of personnel within the University, including senior management and technical experts. Demonstrated ability developing, issuing and evaluating solicitations, including conducting complex RFP's. Demonstrated ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment, manage multiple concurrent tasks, meet critical deadlines and effectively manage changing priorities while maintaining professionalism. Demonstrated ability to train and coach others in proper purchasing processes. Demonstrated excellent interpersonal, written and oral communication skills. Record of past professional development and willingness to engage in future professional development opportunities. Experience with Kuali Financials and Jaggaer. (preferred, not required) Salary Range $95,000 - $105,000 Required Application Documents To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution. Cover Letter, Resume/CV Employee Benefits Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it’s a thriving community that’s transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact. Review our detailed benefits information here. Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here. For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator. Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in! Background Check Policy Statement Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so. EEO Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Inspired by its land-grant heritage, Colorado State University is committed to excellence and engagement, setting the standard for public research universities in teaching, research, service and extension for the benefit of the citizens of Colorado, the United States, and the world. Prospective Employees, click here to learn more about CSU's perks and purpose. Current employees will need to apply for jobs in Workday.