The University of Rochester is looking for a Senior Procurement Category Specialist to manage a portfolio of contracts and implement enterprise-wide strategic plans for purchasing goods and services. In this role, you will develop business plans with customers and suppliers, lead strategic sourcing projects, and negotiate contracts to maximize value for the University community, all within a culture defined by our commitment to Meliora—Ever Better.
What You'll Do
- Manage a portfolio of contracts and authorize contracts, purchase orders, and leases.
- Negotiate new contracts and renewals on behalf of the organization, working with Supervision, Legal and Risk Management to minimize risk.
- Implement the enterprise-wide strategic plan for purchasing goods and services.
- Develop business plans and collaborative relationships with internal customers and suppliers.
- Evaluate all spend categories to identify savings risks and opportunities.
- Assist leadership in developing strategies to mitigate risks and increase savings.
- Organize and lead sourcing teams for respective commodities.
- Construct and implement Strategic Sourcing projects in accordance with University policies and federal procurement regulations.
- Lead negotiation activity for multiple categories across the enterprise.
- Focus on process improvement opportunities to reduce waste and inefficient processes.
- Leverage technology to improve business processes and decision-making.
- Conduct accurate and timely reporting of savings against goals.
- Market the department’s services to the University community and drive change management initiatives.
- Promote local, small, and diverse business relationships.
- Serve on University and community committees and participate in professional associations as appropriate.
- Maintain a category-wide view of procurement to maximize value for the customer.
- Establish and maintain customer and supplier partnerships to identify opportunities for cost and process improvements.
- Remain current on new purchasing methods, sources of supply, products, and industry trends.
What We're Looking For
- A Bachelor's degree and 5 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated skills in Microsoft tools and Business systems.
- Ability to learn quickly and collaborate cross-functionally.
- Strong negotiation, communication, and project management skills.
Nice to Have
- Direct purchasing experience.
- Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) or similar certification upon hire.
Technical Stack
- Microsoft tools
- Business systems
Team & Environment
You will work with Supervision, Legal and Risk Management, and strategize with the Category Manager.
Benefits & Compensation
- Compensation Range: $60,431.00 - $84,603.00
Work Mode
This is an onsite position located at 910 Genesee St, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14611.
The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving an inclusive culture. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other characteristic protected by law.


