Procurement Manager

Child Care Associates is an equal opportunity employer who offers equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, mental or physical disability, political affiliation, beliefs, protected veteran status in accordance with applicable federal laws, or any other protected class.

Reporting to the Director of Procurement, the Procurement Manager leads strategic sourcing, vendor management, and contract administration using data-driven insights and modern procurement tools. This role evaluates proposals, negotiates contracts, and leverages technologies such as Excel, Power BI, and AI analytics to optimize purchasing decisions. Collaborating across departments while working independently, the Procurement Manager drives efficiency, enforces best practices, and ensures compliance, supporting the organization’s strategic goals.

• Determines the most effective and cost‑efficient purchasing strategies for acquiring goods and services.
• Expedites requisitions and purchasing actions as needed to meet operational timelines.
• Maintains complete and accurate documentation for all procurement transactions in compliance with audit and regulatory requirements.
• Researches and evaluates vendors for quality, pricing, and service capabilities.
• Monitors vendor performance and maintains approved vendor and potential bidder lists.
• Collaborates with management and staff to prepare and maintain procurement planning data for all solicitations.
• Plans, organizes, and coordinates the development of bid specifications.
• Prepares and issues solicitations in compliance with applicable policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Establishes evaluation criteria, coordinates evaluator participation, reviews offers for compliance, negotiates best value, recommends vendor selection, and awards contracts.
• Communicates with proposers to address the sufficiency and clarity of solicitation responses.
• Develops, negotiates, and finalizes contracts, amendments, and renewals.
• Maintains organized and accessible contract files.
• Designs, develops, and implements procurement templates, tools, resources, and procedural guides.
• Interprets and applies procurement and contracting policies, rules, and regulations.
• Identifies and addresses staff training and technical assistance needs related to procurement.
• Provides guidance, training, and technical expertise to internal stakeholders on procurement processes.
• Operates with considerable independence and judgment under minimal supervision.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work history.

3 years (5 years preferred) of progressively responsible experience in public purchasing, including reviewing solicitations, evaluating bids and proposals, ensuring compliance with applicable procurement laws and regulations, and performing end-to-end procurement functions.

Proven ability to apply logical and analytical thinking to solve complex procurement challenges, interpret regulations, evaluate sourcing options, and develop effective, compliant purchasing solutions, with strong proficiency in critical thinking, problem-solving, sound decision-making, and analyzing numerical and financial data.

Experience in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting procurement and market data to support sourcing strategies, vendor selection, and contract management.

Ability to take initiative in learning and owning professional development, staying current on procurement best practices and strategies, and developing a thorough understanding of applicable requirements.

Proven collaborative leadership skills with the ability to inspire and guide teams, work effectively with stakeholders , and operate independently while contributing as a strong team player.

Computer proficiency including Microsoft Office and Excel software programs.

Excellent working knowledge of State and Federal purchasing regulations including 2 CFR § 200.

Ability to communicate professionally and effectively with all levels of internal staff, external partners, vendors, and customers, providing excellent service while upholding and enforcing organizational policies and standards.

Insured…