What are the responsibilities and job description for the Purchasing, Capital Program Manager position at Chicago Zoological Society?
03-Mar-2023
2484BR
Regular Full Time
Job Function and Responsibilities
The Purchasing, Capital Program Manager contributes to the success of the Chicago Zoological Society by researching potential vendors, identifying cost and quality variances, negotiating and documenting purchasing agreements and implementing systems to anticipate the need for new or renewed products or services. The position is primarily focused on, but not limited to, managing contracts, vendor interaction and procurement for CZS Capital construction projects of all scopes and sizes, including some new and exciting projects starting in the near future from infrastructure updates to major exhibit renovations. Five years relevant experience in the purchasing field including the construction industry is required. Previous experience with procurement activities related to capital construction projects strongly desired as well as knowledge of waivers of lean and prevailing wage. Familiarity with facilities management also a plus.
The primary duties and responsibilities:
- Manage multiple procurement projects, working closely with cross-functional teams and oversee contracts in every step of the project life cycle from development to closeout. Contract management and compliance, sourcing and selecting qualified vendors, development and distribution of RFP's, negotiating and awarding of bids and generating contracts to attain the best interests of the institution. Develop and supervise budgets and schedules for Capital projects, both new construction and improvements. Contracts include, but not limited to, Owner, Architect, Contractor, Consulting and Equipment. Produce necessary documentation for Forest Preserves of Cook County and CZS Board of Trustees on behalf of management as required.
- Monitor budgets by project and keep accurate and detailed up-to-date records for costs incurred, expenses paid, and pending contractual liabilities. Review invoices and manage change orders. Retain records of vendor lists, certificates of insurance and certified payroll information, including prevailing wage.
- Serve as a liaison with Facilities and outside utility providers for gas, water and electric purchases. Monitor and record consumption data to plan budgets and potential savings by using alternative sources. Review and approve utility invoices. Cultivate and maintain contacts at appropriate utility companies.
- Participate in all aspects of sourcing and procurement, including: Vendor Management and qualification, Administration of the Request for Proposal Process, Total Cost Analysis, balancing business needs with cost objectives, Contract Management and compliance. Negotiate price and terms with suppliers, recommending suppliers with respect to cost, quality, and delivery competitiveness for assigned responsibilities.
- Initiate long term strategies to ensure the timely procurement of properly vetted and competitively bid goods and services. Implement and support strategic sourcing initiatives. Lead and participate in cross-functional teams to problem solve, improve processes, and implement best practices. Participate in developing and maintaining purchasing policies and procedures.
- Develop and maintain programs to expand and uphold relationships with WBE/MBE/DBE vendors. Maintain and report progress on the initiative.
- Other related duties as assigned to ensure successful achievement of Society objectives.
Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include the following:
- Bachelor's Degree in Business, Purchasing Management, or other relevant field or eight years equivalent combination training and/or experience required. High School diploma or GED equivalent required.
- Five years relevant experience in the purchasing field including the construction industry.
- Strong knowledge in the basic principles of accounting, finance, business law and inventory control required.
- Solid communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills required.
- Possess strong planning, organizational, time management, and analytical skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required.
- Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
- English fluency at a working professional level.
- Valid driver's license required at time of hire. Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver's license or obtain one within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state driver's license is required for out-of-state residents.
Preferred qualifications include:
- Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.
- Familiarity with facilities management a plus.
- Familiarity with Dynamics Navision Accounting software and Docuware document management software a plus.
Additional Information: This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position, but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform. Position requires a highly responsible, motivated, self-starter. Individual must be cooperative, persistent, and helpful. Must be able to identify and prioritize tasks to be completed and initiate and follow through to completion without prompting and with little direct supervision. Incumbent will interact directly with Chief Financial Officer, Vice President, Guest Services, Director of Procurement, Buyer, Directors, and Senior Managers on a regular basis.
Additional Information
Workplace safety is the Chicago Zoological Society's top priority. We require all employees to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 unless they request and receive a religious or medical exemption. New hires must have at least received their first vaccine dose prior to their start date. (Updated 9/16/22)
Related searches/key words: construction, project management, procurement, purchasing, contract negotiation, RFP, facilities management, purchasing manager, utilities, purchasing management, capital construction, capital projects, infrastructure, vendor management, negotiations, waivers of lean, prevailing wage.
Schedule Details
The work schedule for this position is generally Monday through Friday.
Job Location
Chicago Zoological Society-Brookfield Zoo
Zip Code
60513
Department
Guest Services Administration
Group
Finance
Union Status
Non-Union
Work Shift
Monday thru Friday
The Chicago Zoolgogical Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer.