Purchaser and Contract Specialist

**The Position**:
Under the general supervision of the Controller or designate, the Purchaser and Contract Specialist is responsible for the procurement of goods, services, and equipment, and for coordinating the full contract lifecycle on behalf of the shíshálh Nation. This role ensures that all purchasing and contracting activities are completed in compliance with Nation policies, procedures, and financial controls, while respecting shíshálh cultural protocols and priorities.

Procurement
- Develop and execute purchasing strategies that align with the Nation’s operational and budgetary objectives.
- Prepare purchase orders, requests for proposals (RFPs), requests for quotations (RFQs), and tenders in accordance with shíshálh Nation procurement policies.
- Source goods and services, ensuring quality, value for money, and timely delivery.
- Maintain accurate purchasing records and documentation for audit and compliance purposes.
- Research and recommend sustainable and local Indigenous supplier options whenever possible.

Contract Administration
- Draft, review, negotiate, and finalize contracts for goods, services, and projects.
- Maintain a close relationship with the Accounts Payable department to facilitate up-to-date contracts and other required documentation for payment processing.
- Ensure contracts clearly define scope, deliverables, timelines, pricing, and compliance requirements.
- Maintain a central contracts database and monitor key dates for renewals, expirations, and performance reviews.

Vendor and Stakeholder Relations
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with vendors, contractors, and service providers.
- Provide clear communication on expectations, deliverables, and Nation standards.
- Work with internal departments to ensure procurement needs are met efficiently.
- Resolve vendor disputes and performance issues in a professional and timely manner.

Compliance and Reporting
- Ensure all procurement and contracting activities comply with the shíshálh Nation policies, government regulations, and funding agreements.
- Prepare regular procurement and contract status reports for management.
- Monitor market trends and cost fluctuations to provide strategic purchasing advice.

**Qualifications, Skills and Abilities**:

- Diploma or degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
- Minimum 3 years of procurement and/or contract management experience, preferably in a public sector or Indigenous government environment.
- Certification in procurement or contract management (e.g., SCMP, CPPB) is considered an asset.
- Experience working with Indigenous communities preferred.
- Knowledge of procurement laws, regulations, and best practices.
- Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to draft clear, accurate, and enforceable contracts.
- Proficiency with procurement software and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
- Ability to work collaboratively and respectfully in a cross-cultural environment.
- Possession of a valid BC driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
- Acceptable Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Search.