Executive Director, Purchasing

STA00950PO25

Procurement and Inventory Control

Procurement

Executive Director, Procurement

E1 - Directors and Executives

Executive Director, Purchasing

Columbia

Richland

Division of Administration and Finance

DAF Purchasing and Central Supply

Unclassified

$140,485

Salary commensurate with qualifications.

Columbia, SC

Full Time

37.5

Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.

12 months

Other Professional

From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.

The Executive Director of Purchasing provides strategic leadership, direction, and oversight of the University of South Carolina’s system-wide purchasing and procurement operations. The Executive Director ensures that all procurement activities are conducted in accordance with the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code, USC policies and procedures, and applicable federal regulations. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding public resources, enhancing operational efficiency, supporting academic and research excellence, and promoting supplier diversity and sustainability across all campuses.

Requires a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or a job related field and at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or contract administration, including five (5) years in a senior management role.

Thorough knowledge of state and federal statutes and regulations pertaining to higher education procurement and financial management and ability to analyze and interpret data. Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of University, state, federal and other external personnel.

• Knowledge of the principles, practices, theories and terminology of procurement and contract negotiations.
• Knowledge of state government procurement processes with emphasis on higher education.
• Knowledge of establishing KPIs and data metrics to monitor performance.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex financial data and reports.
• Ability to plan, organize, review and supervise the work of subordinates.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively.

Provide executive leadership and oversight of all purchasing operations across the USC System, including procurement of goods, services, and equipment in compliance with state and university requirements. Ensure adherence to the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code and USC procurement policies and procedures, maintaining transparency and audit readiness. Supervise purchasing directors, managers and professional staff, fostering a culture of integrity, customer service, and professional excellence.

Yes

30

Oversee contract development, competitive solicitations, negotiations, renewals, and vendor management to ensure optimal value and performance.

Yes

15

Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives that achieve cost savings, operational efficiency, and compliance with state procurement regulations. Develop and implement strategic procurement plans that align with institutional priorities and regulatory requirements. Ensure procurement practices advance the university’s goals in supplier diversity, sustainability, and local economic impact.

Yes

15

Provide expert guidance and consultation to university leadership, departments, and campuses on procurement planning and compliance. Collaborate with academic, administrative, and facilities units to forecast purchasing needs and support operational goals. Collaborate with the University Finance Offices, Legal Counsel, Risk Management, and Facilities Planning to ensure alignment of purchasing with institutional and regulatory goals. Provide professional and technical assistance to top university management to ensure financial compliance by analyzing and interpreting federal, state, and agency policies.

Yes

15

Lead efforts to modernize procurement operations through process improvements, automation initiatives, and implementation of eProcurement systems, procurement cards, and vendor management tools. Manage vendor relationships and supplier performance, including promoting supplier diversity and local business engagement.

Yes

10

Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and reports to measure purchasing effectiveness. Develop and monitor purchasing budgets and performance metrics.

Yes

10

Serve as the primary liaison to state procurement offices, auditors, and other oversight agencies. Represent the University in meetings with the South Carolina Division of Procurement Services, auditors, and other state agencies. Develop and maintain collaborative and professional relationships on behalf of the University.

Yes

5

No

Essential

1

02/02/2026

12/03/2025

01/05/2026

No

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.