Director of Procurement

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the direction of the Senior Vice President of Finance, IT and Administration, the Procurement Manager oversees all procurement and contracting functions for the agency, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations while managing operations with significant financial and organizational impact.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership & Policy Development

• Provide strategic procurement guidance, innovative solutions, and technical expertise to agency leadership
• Develop, recommend, and administer procurement policies and procedures in compliance with federal (HUD/FAR) and state statutes and regulations
• Maintain current knowledge of government contract law and procurement best practices

Contract & Procurement Management

• Plan and direct agency-wide procurement activities for all departments including Property Management, Modernization, Real Estate Development, Social Services, Finance, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal Services, and Section 8 Programs
• Manage competitive solicitations including Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Invitations for Bids (IFBs)
• Develop, negotiate, and administer contracts, subcontracts, memoranda of agreement, and cooperative agreements
• Review specifications, cost estimates, performance requirements, and delivery schedules
• Process contract modifications, amendments, extensions, and closeouts
• Oversee purchase order processes and procurement software systems

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with HUD, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), Connecticut procurement regulations, and agency policies
• Consult with legal counsel on contract interpretation and regulatory compliance
• Monitor Section 3, Davis-Bacon, and prevailing wage compliance
• Coordinate with and respond to auditors regarding procurement activities
• Conduct dispute resolution hearings for claims, protests, and appeals
• Review contractual terms to identify legal risks and develop mitigation strategies

Vendor Relations & Outreach

• Maintain vendor registration system and cultivate professional supplier relationships
• Conduct outreach to maximize vendor participation, with emphasis on Minority, Women, Resident, and Section 3 businesses
• Coordinate pre-proposal conferences and proposal evaluations
• Provide training to vendors on agency procurement policies and procedures

Records Management & Reporting

• Maintain and organize comprehensive procurement files, contract documents, and compliance records
• Prepare regular reports on procurement activities, contract status, and planning metrics for management and Board of Commissioners
• Manage tracking and safekeeping of small and attractive assets and inventory
• Update procurement information on agency website

Training & Staff Development

• Develop and deliver procurement training for agency employees across all divisions
• Supervise, evaluate, and mentor assigned procurement staff
• Manage information technology needs for the procurement division

Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or related field required; advanced degree and/or additional professional training preferred

Experience: Six to ten years of progressively responsible contracting or procurement experience, including minimum five years in a supervisory capacity (or equivalent combination of education and experience)

Required Knowledge & Skills:

• Public Housing Agency (PHA) or government contracting environment
• Federal and state procurement regulations and contract law
• Solicitation techniques, negotiation, and dispute mediation
• Microsoft Office Suite and procurement software systems
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced, decentralized environment

Certifications: Must obtain or possess within one year of hire:

• Certified Public Purchasing Officer (CPPO), OR
• Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), OR
• Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), OR
• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Other Requirements: Valid Connecticut driver's license