IT Buyer

Department F&A FIN - Information Technology Procurement About the Department Procurement Services strives to assimilate knowledge and experience, both within and outside of the University, on the materials or equipment to be purchased and the sources from which they may be obtained. It is our goal to conduct all activities in the best interest of the University, while simultaneously creating and maintaining quality relationships with our suppliers. Providing these services, in accordance with sound business and procurement practices, Procurement Services seeks to realize for the University, the maximum value for every dollar expended and excellence in its administrative processes. Job Summary The job uses its understanding of key University and business drivers to perform a range of purchasing activities. Communicates favorable terms, volume discounts and long-term contracts with suppliers, and prepares and processes requisitions and purchase orders for the procurement of goods, services and supplies for customer-related business processes or for internal use with a moderate level of guidance. Responsibilities Manages the IT procurement process including competitive procurements, negotiations of agreements, on-going contract administration and vendor relationship management. Acts as a resource to University faculty and staff with regard to purchases of software, equipment and services. Negotiates, manages and administers commercial contracts in accordance with University policies and procedures, federal, state and local laws and regulations and best business practices. Performs contract administration to include resolution of post-award issues, execution of amendments, monitoring of supplier performance, and contract deliverables. Leads and manages RFx (e.g. Request for Proposal, Request for Information, Request for Quote) process, including project management, development of RFx, negotiations and award process. Provides professional support to the purchasing of supplies, equipment, and services related to procurement. Performs preliminary documentation and analysis of large dollar purchase requests. Negotiates non-complex contract terms with vendors within procedures and responsibilities as assigned. Identifies vendors/suppliers, solicits and analyzes quotations, selects or recommends vendors, and interviews perspective vendors with a moderate level of guidance. Performs final commitment action for procurement under standard procedures. Monitors routine contract executions of buyer personnel. Conducts periodic review of contractors' performance under University-wide agreements. Performs purchases of commodities and services as required, acquiring higher-level of knowledge and skills. Performs other related work as needed. Minimum Qualifications Education: Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field. --- Work Experience: Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline. --- Certifications: --- Preferred Qualifications Education: Bachelor’s degree in business or related concentration. Experience: Three years of direct procurement experience. Experience within an IT procurement environment. Negotiating and contracting with key suppliers such as IBM, Cisco, Network Appliance, Oracle, and Microsoft. Certification: Certified Purchasing Manager. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). Technical Skills or Knowledge: Knowledge of standard legal and insurance concepts, practices, and procedures related to commercial transactions. Experience interpreting and summarizing contractual terms for clients, such as license rights, product entitlements, intellectual property, and use restrictions. Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. Preferred Competencies Proven ability to analyze and identify risk, redline and negotiate vendor agreements. Strong process management, organizational and effective time management skills. Excellent oral and written communication. Excellent analytical, organizational and follow up skills, Excellent interpersonal skills. Self-motivated and able to problem solve. Exercise independent judgment. Produce high quality work. Application Documents Resume/CV (required) Cover Letter (preferred) References Contact Information (3) (preferred) When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application. Job Family Financial Management Role Impact Individual Contributor FLSA Status Exempt Pay Frequency Monthly Scheduled Weekly Hours 37.5 Benefits Eligible Yes Requires Compliance with University Covid-19 Vaccination Requirement Yes Drug Test Required No Health Screen Required No Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required No Posting Statement Employees must comply with the University’s COVID-19 vaccination requirements. More information about the requirements can be found on the University of Chicago Vaccination GoForward. The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form. We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange. All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position. 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