Assistant Director of Purchasing

The Assistant Director of Purchasing, under the direction of the Director of Purchasing, assists with overseeing, managing, and executing the functions of the Bergen Community College (BCC) purchasing functions and staff. Provides information, support, and assistance related to the purchasing process to internal and external stakeholders. Works closely with the Director of Purchasing to develop, document, and implement procurement strategies to meet College-wide needs, including leading the day-to-day activities of a team of procurement professionals and buyers. Acts as the primary liaison for procurement-related IT systems and initiatives to meet evolving business and regulatory requirements. Promote best-practice procurement procedures through business oversight, appropriate financial controls, and effective operational processing.

POSITION SUMMARY

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Purchases materials, services, equipment, and supplies for BCC’s operations.
• Works closely with the Facilities Department to meet contracted service requirements.
• Prioritizes and schedules departmental and individual workloads based on BCC’s deadlines and legal requirements.
• Works with purchase initiators to ensure that specifications are clear, accurate, and in compliance with public purchasing laws.
• Works with purchase initiators to review and update contracts in advance of renewal/expiration.
• Promotes a competitive procurement environment by researching new supply sources, notifying prospective vendors of public solicitations, and maximizing continuous improvement and efficiencies in the procurement process. Analyzes research results and advises contract and bid award.
• Enters data and generates purchase orders in the Ellucian Colleague and/or related, system.
• Establishes contracts in accordance with college and legal requirements.
• Assists the Director of Purchasing to prepare monthly resolutions and other documentation for submissions to the Board of Trustees.
• Maps, documents, and assesses procurement processes, functions, and metrics, and recommend changes where applicable.
• Conducts student and staff surveys to solicit input on procurement policies, processes, products, and initiatives to improve operational responsiveness, efficiency, and quality of service.
• Actively engages in professional development activities to maintain knowledge and skills needed to promote continuous improvement in the operation of the office.
• Prepares contract award notices and collects and reviews required documentation to ensure compliance with specifications.
• Documents and maintains procurement records as required.
• Keeps current on changes to public purchasing laws or College policy that may impact procurement contracts and processes.
• Manages system setup and conducts user training related to the purchasing function.
• Conducts fiscal year-end closing activities and new fiscal year preparation in Colleague.
• Supervises the Senior Buyer and Buyer positions to include assigning and reviewing work, providing guidance and instruction, and conducting performance appraisals.
• Oversees the Purchasing Department and serves as the primary contact in the absence of the Director.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

SPECIAL SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor’s degree in business administration or related field.

Certifications: New Jersey public purchasing certification (QPA) is required.

Experience:

• Minimum of seven (7) years of purchasing experience, preferably in the public sector, including experience with developing Invitations for Bid, Requests for Proposals, Requests for Quotations, and Requests for Qualifications.
• Familiarity with higher education purchasing or public sector purchasing is preferred.
• Experience in procuring a broad range of commodities, services, construction contracts and equipment.
• Experience with ERP software for procurement (Ellucian Colleague experience a plus).

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Demonstrates analytical and critical thinking skills and the ability to resolve complex procurement issues.
• Understands, interprets, and utilizes standard purchasing practices and procedures while reinforcing compliance with applicable State and Federal laws for public procurement.
• Understands the community college mission and how it relates to student success at BCC.
• Has a balanced and positive approach to collaborating with staff, vendors, and external constituents.
• Demonstrates proficiency in computer software, including the spreadsheets, word  processing, ERP software for procurement.
• Exhibits strong written and oral communication skills.
• Exhibits strong customer and student focus background centered on building relationships, organizing, and planning effectively.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

• Annual Salary is $85,000-$90,000
• NJ Educators Health Plan with free Vision and Dental. NJ State Pension plan.
• 15 vacation days, 15 sick days, 4 personal days, 2 floating holidays, all designated holidays and 5 non-designated holidays a year. 3 Partial Sick Days.

Bergen Community College is committed to excellence in diversity and equity and creating an inclusive learning and working environment.  We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider applicants for all positions regardless of race, color, religion, creed, gender, age, national origin, marital and veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other legally protected status.