Deputy Chief Procurement Officer

SUMMARY

The Deputy Chief Procurement Officer (DCPO) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight of procurement activities for the Housing Authority of Cook County. Reporting to the Chief Legal Officer, the DCPO ensures compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies while driving efficiency, transparency, and innovation across procurement functions. The role combines high-level policy development with hands-on operational management, supporting both enterprise-wide initiatives and day-to-day procurement operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Policy Development

• Develop and execute strategic procurement policies and procedures aligned with organizational objectives, legal requirements, and industry best practices.

• Serve as a subject matter expert on procurement laws, regulations, and policies, advising the CPO, leadership, and partner agencies.

• Lead continuous improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities for process efficiency, cost savings, and innovative practices.

Procurement Operations & Oversight

• Direct and oversee procurement processes, including bids, RFPs, vendor selection, and contract administration.

• Ensure compliance with procurement laws, HUD procurement regulations, and internal policies.

• Oversee development of procurement forecasts, reports, and dashboards, including KPIs to monitor performance.

Risk & Compliance

• Identify and manage procurement-related risks, including compliance issues, contract disputes, and audit findings.

Ensure proper internal controls, documentation, and reporting standards are maintained.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Collaborate with internal departments to understand needs and deliver procurement solutions that align with organizational priorities.

• Represent the organization with external stakeholders, vendors, and industry partners to maintain strong relationships and ensure alignment with best practices.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise and mentor procurement staff, providing guidance, training, and performance management.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND/OR CERTIFICATION

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Administration, Procurement, or related field.

• Minimum of 8 - 10 years of progressively responsible procurement or contract management experience, including at least 5 years in a supervisory or senior management role.

• Strong knowledge of public sector procurement regulations, contract law, and compliance requirements.

• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing procurement policies, strategies, and systems.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with integrity.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree or Juris Doctor (JD).

• Certified Public Purchasing Officer (CPPO) or equivalent professional certification.

• Experience with enterprise procurement systems (e.g. Oracle EBS, eProcurement platforms).

• Proven experience in risk management, labor relations, and/or public sector procurement leadership.

SALARY

The salary range for this position is $120,000 - $130,000.

BENEFITS

Health insurance

FREE Dental insurance

FREE Vision insurance

Life insurance

Healthcare flexible spending account

Dependent Care flexible spending account

Commuter flexible spending account

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Paid time off including 14 Holidays

Hybrid Schedule Flexible Work Hours

401(k) – Employer contribution of 6%

This job description is subject to change and in no manner states or implies that these are the only duties and responsibilities to be performed. The qualifications listed above are guidelines, other combinations of education and experience that could provide the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the job will be considered.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $120,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) 6% Match
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person