Job Description

Who We Are
About the University of Michigan



Founded in 1817, the University of Michigan is widely regarded as the defining public university and one of the world's leading institutions of higher education. With campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint, U-M serves a large and diverse academic community and is consistently ranked among the top universities globally, including strong placement in the Times Higher Education and Quacquarelli Symonds's (QS) World University Rankings. The university's excellence in teaching, research, healthcare, and service, combined with its scale and impact, creates a compelling environment for a skilled procurement professional who is energized by mission-driven work, institutional complexity, and the opportunity to help contribute to one of the most influential public universities in the world.

About Information and Technology Services



Under the leadership of the VPIT-CIO, Information and Technology Services provides technology and communications services that support the University of Michigan's academic, research, clinical, and administrative missions across all campuses. ITS manages enterprise systems, digital infrastructure, and the university's overall IT and information security strategy in partnership with units across Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Flint, and Michigan Medicine. ITS' mission is to be trusted enablers of technology for the U-M community, and its vision is for the University of Michigan to be a leader in the appropriate use of technology among its peers and in the world. For more information about ITS, visit: https://its.umich.edu/about

Job Summary
Information and Technology Services (ITS) is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Senior Lead, IT Procurement & Contracts to join the Procurement team and serve as a key contributor and emerging leader. This role bridges tactical execution and strategic oversight, combining deep, hands-on procurement expertise with growing responsibility for leadership, planning, and operational influence.

The Senior Lead manages complex technology procurement activities (software, hardware, and professional services), leads high-value negotiations, and drives process improvements while partnering closely with leadership on strategic initiatives. This position serves as a trusted advisor to stakeholders, mentors team members, and may oversee projects or staff, positioning the incumbent for future advancement into a formal management role.

This position reports directly to the Assistant Director of IT Purchasing and Contracts.

Responsibilities*
Procurement Leadership & Execution
Lead end-to-end procurement activities for complex and high-value technology purchases, including sourcing, competitive bidding, contract negotiation, and purchasing.
Negotiate software, hardware, and professional services agreements to achieve optimal pricing, terms, and risk mitigation.
Serve as a primary liaison between ITS, central procurement, legal, and vendors.
Manage vendor relationships, ensuring strong performance, issue resolution, and long-term strategic value.
Analyze market trends, licensing models, and supplier strategies to inform purchasing decisions.
Strategy & Operational Influence
Partner with procurement and ITS leadership to support short and long-term planning, including contract strategy, cost optimization, and process improvements.
Contribute to development and refinement of procurement policies, standards, and best practices.
Analyze spend data and procurement metrics to identify trends, efficiencies, and cost-saving opportunities.
Support compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and audit readiness.
Assist in shaping sourcing strategies and improving contract lifecycle management.
Project & Cross-Functional Leadership
Lead or co-lead complex, cross-functional procurement initiatives with broad organizational impact.
Collaborate with technical teams, project managers, and business stakeholders to align procurement strategies with project goals.
Provide guidance on budgeting, forecasting, and vendor selection decisions.
Represent procurement in key meetings and presentations, including with senior leadership.
Mentorship & Team Development
Mentor and provide guidance to junior procurement staff, reviewing work and supporting professional development.
Delegate tasks and provide oversight on procurement activities where appropriate.
Serve as a subject matter expert and escalation point for complex procurement issues.
May provide input into performance evaluations and hiring processes.
Operational Support & Continuous Improvement
Maintain working knowledge of team responsibilities to provide backup support as needed.
Identify and implement improvements to procurement workflows, tools, and systems.
Support initiatives to enhance customer experience and service delivery across ITS.
Required Qualifications*
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or Information Technology.
Minimum of 5-7 years of progressive experience in procurement, contract management, or related fields.
Demonstrated experience in IT procurement, including negotiating complex software and technology contracts.
Proven ability to operate independently while influencing stakeholders and outcomes.
Experience leading projects and mentoring or guiding others
Strong analytical, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present to technical teams and leadership.
Experience with procurement systems, ERP platforms, and contract management tools.
A valid professional certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) or Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM).
Desired Qualifications*
Master's degree (MBA or related field).
Prior supervisory or managerial experience
Experience in higher education or similarly complex organizations.
Exposure to budgeting, financial planning, or compliance functions.
Experience supporting audits, vendor performance management, or contract lifecycle strategy.