Purchasing Director

Southern Arkansas University is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented director to oversee the University’s purchasing, accounts payable, and payroll operations.

Duties: manage all procurement and payment activities, supervise payroll processes, assist with capital vendor selection, ensure compliance with university policies, state regulations, and applicable laws; administer University’s corporate card programs while promoting cost efficiency, transparency, and accountability; monitor purchasing and payment activities, oversee payroll accuracy and timelines, and lead process improvements to enhance efficiency, strengthen internal controls and improve customer service to the university; review purchase requests for requests for approvals, purchasing codes, quotes bid and other required documentation; maintain user and access in the purchasing system, train faculty and staff on purchasing policies and requisition processes, and regularly participate in training workshops to remain current with federal and state procurement laws, oversee the corporate card program by approving cardholders, managing profiles, monitoring transactions, reconciling monthly spend data and ensuring adherence to policy; assist with bid development and advertising, while maintaining contracts, renewals, and related documentation; analyze purchasing data and trends to identify savings opportunities, manage university procurement webpages, communicate regularly with vendors, departments, and state agencies, and maintain all related procurement and accounts payable files; support year-end procedures and vendor inquiries and other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in business related field, 5 years of related experience, with demonstrated leadership is required; must bring strong project management skills and a collaborative spirit to guide staff; knowledge of public sector or higher education procurement is strongly preferred; strong negotiation, contract management, and vendor relations skills are required, along with proficiency in procurement software and advanced Excel. All SAU faculty and staff demonstrate a commitment to the value of all members of the SAU community, to excellence in interpersonal behaviors, and effective collaboration with colleagues. Joining the SAU family requires a commitment to our culture of Continuous Quality Improvement.

Interested candidates should submit a letter of interest, current resume, and the contact information of three (3) references to HR@saumag.edu or the Office of Human Resources, Southern Arkansas University, 100 E University, MSC 9288, Magnolia 71753. AA/EOE. Non-listed references may be contacted.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $50,000.00 - $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• On-site gym
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person