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Competitive salary available based on qualifications, experience and education of the selected candidate.

Information and Technology Services (ITS) is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Lead Procurement Agent to join the Procurement team within ITS. We are looking for a candidate who embodies leadership, initiative, and motivation. The ideal candidate will have significant experience and demonstrated success in technology procurement with a strong focus on software, enterprise hardware negotiations, professional services and presenting to large groups and executive leadership.  

In this role, you will manage the procurement of technology products and services, ensuring effective vendor relationships, and optimizing procurement processes to meet organizational goals. You will serve as a key point of contact between the ITS department and suppliers, and work closely with internal stakeholders to identify and fulfill technology purchasing needs efficiently and cost-effectively.

Information and Technology Services (ITS) supports U-M faculty, researchers, staff, and students in their use of technology to teach, learn, research, and work, and be leaders in their fields. We are dedicated to creating cohesive digital experiences and promoting university wide innovations. ITS's mission is to be trusted enablers of technology for the U-M community. ITS works together to provide cohesive digital experiences and seamless support to the U-M community. For more information about ITS, visit: https://its.umich.edu/about

• Direct and oversee the entire procurement process, including solicitation, contract negotiation, and purchasing, while ensuring adherence to organizational policies and industry best practices.
• Source, evaluate, and select vendors and suppliers to establish strategic partnerships that provide high-quality products and services at competitive rates.
• Negotiate contracts and agreements with suppliers, ensuring favorable terms, conditions, and pricing.
• Manage vendor relationships to ensure quality performance, resolving any issues or disputes promptly.
• Collaborate with ITS project leads and technical teams to understand and anticipate procurement needs, ensuring timely and cost-effective acquisition of necessary resources.
• Analyze market trends, pricing strategies, and supply chain dynamics to make informed purchasing decisions and maintain an optimal inventory of technology resources.
• Monitor and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to procurement activities, identifying opportunities for cost savings, process improvements, and risk mitigation.
• Stay informed on emerging technologies and industry trends to provide insights and recommendations on innovative procurement solutions.
• Mentor, review and delegate work to junior procurement professionals, providing guidance and support. 
• Supervise the work or activities of other procurement staff as necessary.
• Maintains appropriate level of knowledge to back up team members when necessary

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Information Technology, or a related field or equivalent experience in those industries. 
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in procurement, with at least 1 year in a leadership or supervisory role, preferably within ITS or technology.
• Strong understanding of technology products and services, with the ability to evaluate technical specifications and requirements.
• Proven negotiation skills and experience in contract management and business terms.
• Familiarity with procurement software and tools; experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems is a plus.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Master's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Information Technology, or a related field.
• Professional certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is advantageous.
• Experience with buying IT
• Experience in a higher education setting

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

UM- ITS welcomes a healthy applicant pool so we encourage all interested applicants to apply. This position may be underfilled at the Procurement Agen Senior classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate. The salary will align with the classification. 

Benefits at the University of Michigan

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous time off
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions with immediate vesting
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses
• Dental and Vision Insurance
• Parental and Maternity Leave

Job openings are posted for at least seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.