Manager, Procurement Operations

Duties Reporting to the Controller, the Manager, Procurement Operations provides leadership and strategic direction for all University procurement activities. This position ensures that procurement practices are effective, transparent, and compliant with applicable legislation, regulations, and trade agreements. The Manager oversees the Procurement team, fostering a culture of service excellence and accountability while ensuring best value in the acquisition, inventory, and disposal of goods and services. The incumbent plays a key role in supporting VIU's strategic and operational goals through strong supplier relationships, effective contract management, and continuous process improvement. Lead all competitive procurement processes (RFPs, RFQs, Tenders, RFIs), including document preparation, bid solicitation, evaluation, financial analysis, vendor presentations, debriefings, and contract negotiation and execution. Oversee complex and strategic procurement initiatives, including supplier relationship management, high‑value contract negotiations, and risk mitigation in alignment with public sector trade agreements and procurement policies. Evaluate and enhance procurement processes, identifying opportunities for efficiency, cost savings, and standardization. Review outsourcing and bid processes to ensure compliance with legislation and University policy. Promote a customer‑focused approach by assisting internal clients with sourcing, shipment tracking, P‑Card inquiries, and invoicing issues. Provide ongoing training for staff and end users on procurement policies, procedures, and systems (ERP). Represent the University in discussions with vendors and other stakeholders, resolving issues related to product quality, service delivery, or contract performance. Meet with suppliers to evaluate products, pricing, and services; make purchasing commitments on behalf of VIU as authorized. Advise departments on financial and tax considerations, including buy‑versus‑lease decisions and tax implications. Support Procurement staff in daily operations, including purchase order processing, P‑Card management, and asset disposal as needed. Provide leadership, mentoring, and performance management for the Procurement team. Maintain an up‑to‑date project list of current and upcoming competitive bid processes. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree, plus at least six years of progressively responsible management experience in a public sector, unionized, and multi-disciplinary organization, including demonstrated success leading a large team. An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered. Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) designation or equivalent. Extensive experience developing and managing competitive bids, purchase orders, and contracts, including evaluation and award processes. Proven experience negotiating complex equipment and service contracts and resolving contractual disputes. Comprehensive understanding of public procurement processes, vendor management, and trade agreement compliance. Demonstrated ability to assess and manage procurement risks, including insurance and bonding requirements for major acquisitions. Experience managing and monitoring budgets and expenditures. Exceptional organizational, analytical, and decision‑making skills with strong attention to detail. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and provide customer‑focused service. Proficiency with ERP systems and standard business applications (e.g., Microsoft Word and Excel). Preferred Qualifications Experience in public sector or post‑secondary procurement environments. Note VIU is pleased to offer eligible employees a comprehensive benefit plan; ample paid holiday time; professional development opportunities and a desirable pension plan. As part of the VIU campus community, our employees work with supportive colleagues within an encouraging environment and are provided with the tools and training that promote learning and development. The perks of VIU employment are multiple, and include well‑being initiatives and services, strategic discounts, and flexible work opportunities. Short‑listed candidates must provide original transcripts, or applicable original certifications at time of interview. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. Vancouver Island University (VIU) is collectively committed to building and sustaining a diverse and inclusive working and learning environment for faculty, staff, and students. In our journey towards greater diversity, we invite applications from members of equity‑seeking communities including women, racialised and Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of all gender identities and sexual orientations who bring value to the VIU community through their lived experiences. We encourage members of all equity‑seeking groups to self‑identify within their application cover letter. When a candidate voluntarily discloses this information in their cover letter, the information will be used only for the fulfillment of the career opportunity. Disclosure and/or self‑identification with an equity‑seeking group will not lead to advantageous treatment of a candidate who is not qualified. #J-18808-Ljbffr