What are the responsibilities and job description for the Procurement Manager position at Norfolk State University?
Company Description Norfolk State University is a comprehensive urban public institution in Norfolk, Virginia, accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate degrees. The University is committed to transforming students’ lives through exemplary teaching, research, and service. It offers a supportive, academically rigorous, and culturally diverse environment that empowers students to achieve their full potential as resourceful citizens and leaders. Norfolk State University is nationally recognized for its outstanding academic programs, innovative research, and strong community engagement. Team members join a mission-driven institution focused on student success and regional impact.
Role Description The Procurement Manager is a full-time, on-site role located in Norfolk, VA, responsible for overseeing procurement activities that support the University’s academic, administrative, and operational needs. This role manages the end-to-end sourcing process, including identifying suppliers, soliciting bids and proposals, evaluating offers, and awarding contracts in alignment with state and institutional policies. The Procurement Manager will lead contract negotiations, monitor vendor performance, and maintain compliant documentation and reporting. Daily responsibilities include collaborating with campus departments to understand requirements, advising on purchasing strategies, optimizing cost and quality, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services. The role also involves continuous process improvement, adherence to ethical purchasing practices, and contributing to procurement-related policy development and training.
Qualifications
Role Description The Procurement Manager is a full-time, on-site role located in Norfolk, VA, responsible for overseeing procurement activities that support the University’s academic, administrative, and operational needs. This role manages the end-to-end sourcing process, including identifying suppliers, soliciting bids and proposals, evaluating offers, and awarding contracts in alignment with state and institutional policies. The Procurement Manager will lead contract negotiations, monitor vendor performance, and maintain compliant documentation and reporting. Daily responsibilities include collaborating with campus departments to understand requirements, advising on purchasing strategies, optimizing cost and quality, and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services. The role also involves continuous process improvement, adherence to ethical purchasing practices, and contributing to procurement-related policy development and training.
Qualifications
- Candidates should possess strong procurement and purchasing skills, including experience managing competitive bidding, sourcing strategies, and compliance with public-sector or higher-education procurement regulations.
- Candidates should possess supplier evaluation and vendor management skills to assess supplier capabilities, monitor performance, and maintain effective, ethical supplier relationships.
- Candidates should possess contract negotiation and contract management skills to develop, review, and administer agreements that balance risk, value, and regulatory requirements.
- Candidates should possess analytical skills to interpret data, compare proposals, forecast spending, and support evidence-based decision-making.
- Relevant qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, public administration, or a related field; professional certifications such as CPPB, CPPO, CPSM, or equivalent are preferred.
- Additional beneficial skills include familiarity with e-procurement systems and ERP platforms, knowledge of state and federal purchasing regulations, strong written and verbal communication, and the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- Demonstrated integrity, attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment are highly valued.