Position: Procurement Specialist (Program Admin. Officer 3)
About Us
Procurement is a division of the Department of Service Nova Scotia (SNS) responsible for managing major purchases for departments, agencies, boards and commissions, addressing their complex business needs. We ensure a transparent, competitive purchasing process that maximizes value while supporting environmental, economic, and societal goals. Our team provides the expertise needed to guide the government in finding creative, sustainable procurement solutions.
Procurement is evolving as a function and a profession. Our Vision is to lead government procurement service delivery through innovative approaches that achieve:
Responsible management of public resourcesA clear focus on client needsOptimized sourcing solutionsTransparency, compliance, and sustainability in all actionsWhat is Public Procurement
Public Procurement refers to the process of identifying needs, sourcing products or services, conducting market research, and negotiating contracts, all while adhering to trade agreement obligations and internal procedures.
The goal of public procurement is to explore market opportunities and implement sourcing strategies that provide the best possible outcomes for the organization, its key partners, and Nova Scotia as a whole. SNS Clinical Procurement offers expertise and guidance to help clients, particularly Nova Scotia Health, find creative and sustainable solutions for complex business needs.
About Our Opportunity
Reporting to the Category Manager the Procurement Specialist supports strategic sourcing and category management for assigned categories, providing subject matter expertise on sourcing strategies, procurement best practices, and contract negotiations in accordance with organizational policies and procedures.
Primary Accountabilities
Identify and deliver sustainable cost saving opportunities through engagement with key partners, spend analytics, and category market intelligence.Manage end to end procurement for goods and services supporting major business initiatives, including strategic sourcing, tactical procurement, and contract management.Lead, advise, and consult on supply market trends, sourcing methodologies, procurement best practices, cost reduction opportunities, and sourcing performance.Support or Lead negotiations for major government contracts and initiatives.Apply Canadian contract and tendering law, relevant legislation, regulations, and trade agreements within the public procurement environment.Provide expert guidance to government and private sector partners on complex procurement, contracting, negotiation, and business relationship matters.Advise client partners on vendor disputes, including analysis and recommendations for resolution.Procure clinical and health related goods and services within the clinical portfolio.Additional Responsibilities:
Maintain accurate records and documentation across various systems and reports.Other related duties as assignedQualifications and Experience
To succeed in this role, you will need a bachelor’s degree and at least 5 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Relevant experience may include:
Project managementLeading end to end RFX processesContract drafting and negotiationStrategic sourcingData AnalyticsMarket soundingYou also have the following skills or work experience:
Strong interpersonal and creative problem-solving skills, with the ability to provide diplomatic advice and guidance to senior management. Able to effectively handle and resolve vendor and client complaints or inquiries.Proven ability to identify, manage, and reduce risks or disputes, including those that could lead to legal issues or damage trust in the procurement process.Flexibility and adaptability to quickly adjust to changing situations and environments.Excellent time management and organizational abilities.Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word and Teams.Experience in organizing and facilitating meetings with key partners and vendors, both in-person and virtually.Proven team player who collaborates effectively with management, peers and clients.The following will be considered assets:
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