We're supporting a leader in the utility space on their search for a Procurement and Contracts Manager to lead and coordinate procurement efforts across the organization. This position plays a key role in managing supplier relationships, mitigating risk, and delivering value through well-structured sourcing and contracting practices.
Core Responsibilities
- Develop and execute end-to-end procurement strategies across the full sourcing lifecycle, from planning through contract closeout
- Apply sound professional judgment to manage risk, resolve complex procurement matters, and support organizational objectives
- Identify, assess, and select qualified suppliers to support capital projects, refurbishment programs, and ongoing operational needs
- Administer master agreements and blanket purchase orders to support as-needed procurement requirements
- Maintain ongoing communication with suppliers to ensure availability, performance, and timely delivery of goods and services
- Plan sourcing activities to align with budget constraints while maintaining required quality and performance standards
- Negotiate pricing, commercial terms, and service levels to optimize overall value
- Lead contract negotiations while ensuring compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations
- Coordinate with legal counsel on contract reviews and resolution of legal or regulatory issues
- Ensure procurement activities adhere to established terms, conditions, and internal governance standards
- Oversee execution, tracking, and retention of contracts, insurance certificates, and related documentation
- Develop and manage competitive solicitation processes, including RFQs, RFPs, and bids
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve procurement workflows and outcomes
- Use analytics and KPIs to monitor performance and identify opportunities for continuous improvement
- Coordinate with engineering and technical teams to ensure equipment and materials meet required specifications and design standards
- Establish vendor qualification and due diligence processes to manage risk and protect organizational reputation
- Monitor supplier and contractor performance and address issues proactively
- Conduct periodic reviews of active and evergreen contracts to determine renewal, renegotiation, or termination needs
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in business, supply chain, engineering, or a related field (Master's degree or MBA preferred)
- Professional procurement certifications or licenses preferred
- Minimum of five years of experience in procurement or supply chain leadership roles, ideally within utilities, energy, construction, manufacturing, oil & gas, or related industries
- Strong knowledge of procurement processes, contract management, and regulatory compliance
- Demonstrated success negotiating complex supplier and contractor agreements
- Advanced analytical capabilities, including KPI-driven decision-making
- Proven ability to independently design and implement procurement strategies and processes
- Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Ability to work effectively across all levels of the organization
- Strong project management and organizational skills
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and database or procurement management systems
