Director of Purchasing and Auxiliary Services

About Clark University:

Founded in 1887, Clark was one of the first all-graduate institutions in the United States. Today the University is a highly-ranked, student-centered institution educating approximately 2,350 undergraduate and 1,150 graduate students to be imaginative and contributing citizens of the world and to advance the frontiers of knowledge and understanding through rigorous scholarship and creative effort. This commitment to scholarship and inquiry reflects the University's commitment to "challenge convention and change our world" and to address issues of critical importance to society. It is also reflected by Clark's many national and international distinctions, including recognition for its diversity and inclusion efforts, innovation, community engagement and impact, as a top green campus, and for having a distinguished geography and international development program. Clark has also been included in the groundbreaking Colleges that Change Lives guide since it was first published in 1996.

Clark is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, a dynamic, diverse city "on the rise." The second largest city in New England, Worcester is home to 11 institutions of higher learning and is increasingly recognized for its growing healthcare and biotechnology communities, its thriving cultural scene, and as a vibrant food hub.

Job Description:

As part of the Planning and Finance team, the Director of Business & Auxiliary Services will provide overall leadership and administration for vendor services, including Dining Services, the Campus Store operations, and vending. Additional responsibilities will include the oversight and management of the University's purchasing practices and systems.

Major Responsibilities:  

Purchasing:

In a decentralized purchasing environment, functions as a key resource to purchasers on campus to assist them with purchasing-related issues, vendor selection, and competitive bidding processes. 

• Utilizes strategic purchasing methods to Identify and recognize potential cost savings.
• Assists in the development and implementation of policies, procedures and control systems.
• Participates in various higher education purchasing groups such as MHEC and EandI in order to maximize the use of joint purchasing contracts that can provide savings to the University.
• Develops purchasing programs and procedures to increase and track spending with minority and women-owned business in support of the University's DEI goals.
• Develops best practices for competitive bidding and assists departments with the bidding process.
• Administers the University's eProcurement system.  Trains users in effective use of the system and provides end-user support.  Ensures that it is being effectively utilized to support the University's business functions.
• Negotiates and manages contracts for campus-wide purchasing needs such as office supplies, printer/copiers, cellphones, etc. Maintains relationships with key vendors.

Auxiliary Services

Provides oversight to various auxiliary services and functions. Works directly with appropriate contractors, vendors, and department heads to ensure service and financial expectations are met. 

• Provides day-to-day operational oversight to various auxiliary services and functions. Works directly with appropriate contractors, vendors, and department heads to ensure service and financial expectations are met. 
• Dining Services:  Manages and oversees the contract for food service operations.  Works closely with the Dining Services General Manager to ensure the contractor is providing high quality food service for both student dining and catering operations while also meeting financial objectives.  Functions as the system administrator for the meal plan software (CBORD) and works collaboratively with the Manager of the University's OneCard Program.
• Provides supervision and guidance to the Campus Store manager and assists with the oversight of the online bookstore program in consultation with faculty.
• Negotiates and assists with the oversight of vending and residential services laundry equipment contracts.
  

Other

• Assists University departments with business-related matters as needed.
• Collaborates with university partners to streamline services and market offerings.
• Represents the University in outreach functions and professional groups and organizations.
• Other duties as assigned. 

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration or another related field
• 5-7 years of related experience, preferably in higher education or another non-profit environment
• Demonstrated knowledge of budgeting, basic accounting, financial management, and effective business practices
• Excellent analytical and financial management skills, proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (particularly Excel)
• Must be proficient with software technology and be capable of learning and administering Clark's web-based eProcurement system
• Strong written and oral communications skills; attention to detail

Additional Information:

As of June 1, 2023 Clark University no longer requires employees or students to be vaccinated against COVID-19. However, Clark urges all community members to follow CDC guidelines for COVID-19 vaccination, which recommend that everyone stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines including booster doses. This is important for your own personal health as well as the health of our community.

At Clark University, we are dedicated to building a workplace that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion. We believe that diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds leads to a more innovative and productive work environment. Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in our hiring practices, employee development programs, and campus culture. We welcome and encourage individuals of all backgrounds to join our team and contribute their unique ideas to help us achieve our goals.

Clark University offers a generous benefit package for full and, if applicable, part-time employees that include; paid time off, generous retirement plan, group health and dental insurance, life insurance, and tuition, along with use of many campus amenities. For a complete list of benefits for eligible employees visit here .

To review the Clark University Police Department Annual Security and Fire Safety Report visit here .

Application Instructions:

To be considered for this position, you must submit your credentials online. Create a Clark University Careers Account by clicking on the APPLY NOW button below. You will be able to upload the following documents, which are required for consideration:

See the FAQ for using our online system. Please contact us if you need assistance applying through this website.

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Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Salary will be commensurate with skills and experience.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States for any employer.

A successful background check is required upon acceptance.