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Procurement and Contracts Manager

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Procurement and Contracts Manager.

Position Details

Location Hattiesburg

118 College Drive

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 39406-0001

United States

Division Procurement and Contract Services

Position Type Staff

Employment Status Full Time

Grant Funded No

Salary Range 58,294.00 - 68,582.00

Pay Grade

E12

Posting Close Date August 1, 2025

Job Summary

The Procurement and Contract Manager performs complex, professional level tasks associated with the procurement of goods and services on behalf of the University of Southern Mississippi. Responsibilities include formal and informal purchasing decisions, contract negotiations, scope of work development, and all maintaining all formal documentation related to the procurement process. The Procurement and Contract Manager directs and coordinates the day-to-day activities of the purchasing function at the University by applying designated procurement policies, procedures, and laws as mandated by the University, IHL, and the State of Mississippi. This position also serves as an official purchasing agent with full authority to legally obligate the institution to acquire goods and services and coordinate the university’s contract management process. Considerable independent judgment is required to carry out assigned duties.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

+ Coordinates procurement methods on behalf of the University to ensure all technical and administrative functions related to purchasing of goods and services are consistent with University, IHL, and state policies and procedures. Plans work procedures, makes assignments, recommends purchasing methods, and reviews work for accuracy and conformance to institutional policies and state laws.

+ Supervises and guides buyers and purchasing card personnel within the Procurement department to ensure compliance with state purchasing laws, reviews purchase requests and maintains the state’s purchasing certification requirements. Acts as a primary procurement liaison between Hattiesburg, Gulf Park, GCRL, and any satellite University locations to ensure consistency and compliance with state and federal procurement regulations.

+ Evaluates and determines how customer requests for nonstandard or complex purchases should be processed; evaluates and recommends awarding of complex and non-standard procurements on behalf of the University in association with campus units. Maintains USM Purchasing and Technology policies and procedures and identifies opportunities for process improvements.

+ Coordinates the advertisement of bids/RFPs in newspapers as well as submits them online to OPTFM as required by law, maintains the bid file, returns bid bonds (if applicable). Prepares documentation such as specifications, legal advertisements, bid tabulations, vendor notifications, addenda, and other pertinent documents. Utilizes the State of Mississippi’s MAGIC system to post bids and request Approval to Purchase (P-1) for bid awards and sole source acquisitions.

+ Assists Director of Procurement with reviewing and negotiating procurement contracts and investigates any violations of such contracts; develops and educates faculty and staff in purchasing and contracting procedures to help ensure compliance with policies and applicable law. Consults with USM General Counsel as necessary and prepares contracts for signature.

+ Facilitates the university’s contract management process, policies, and procedures. Develops and maintains training and communications for campus constituents to ensure compliance and understanding of the contact submission process.

+ Assists with the management of the University’s purchasing card program to ensure compliance with state purchasing laws, review purchase requests, and facilitate policies and procedures that ensure compliance with state laws and IHL policies. Investigates ways to improve purchasing methods and purchasing card spend consistent with applicable state laws.

+ Pursues professional self-development opportunities and provides staff training to maintain current knowledge of the procurement requirements regarding the state purchasing laws, IHL guidelines, and the Mississippi Information Technology Services procedures.

+ Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in business, supply chain management, or similar field of study from an accredited four-year college or university; or eight years of experience involving the acquisition of equipment, supplies, commodities, or services that included contract review associated with a purchasing program; or an acceptable equivalent combination of education and related experience. Advanced education may be substituted on a year-for-year basis for experience. Must become CMPA certified within the first year of employment.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

+ Knowledge of drafting, editing, reviewing, and interpreting commercial contract terms, conditions, and specifications.

+ Knowledge of evaluating proposals, bids, and quotations, and the awarding, final negotiation, and/or recommendation of contract awards within prescribed limits.

+ Ability to read, analyze, and interpret common scientific and technical journals, financial reports, and legal documents; calculate figures and amounts such as, but not limited to, discounts, interest, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume.

+ Demonstrates the ability to deliver accurate, concise and quality communication (verbal and written) in a timely manner and provide quality feedback.

+ Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods of public procurement.

+ Effectively demonstrate skill in keeping current with technology trends in data gathering, standardization and presentation.

+ Effectively convey information and encourage an exchange of ideas (Communication).

+ Ability to identify, define, and solve problems (Problem Solving).

+ Work with others to achieve a common goal (Teamwork).

+ Adjust to changing workplace demands (Adaptability).

+ Meet the needs and expectations of internal and external customers; possess the ability to respond to common inquiries from customers, regulatory agencies, or members of the business community. (Customer Service).

+ Effectively demonstrate skill and ability to perform the specific job duties and tasks as defined by a job description (Technical Competence).

+ Excellent work ethic and dependability (Quality of Work).

+ Excellent organization and time management skills with ability to meet goals and objectives (Workload Management/ Productivity).

+ Resourceful and determined to provide a positive experience to for others.

+ Ability to plan and delegate the work of others.

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s Degree in business, supply chain management, or similar field of study relative to procurement. A thorough knowledge of the State of Mississippi purchasing laws and experience related to the state purchasing system or existing CMPA certification is highly desirable. Eight years of professional-level experience in higher education or governmental procurement. Desired Certifications: C.P.M., CPSM, CPPB, CPPO, or other nationally recognized supply chain certification.

About The University of Southern Mississippi

Since our founding in 1910, The University of Southern Mississippi has remained dedicated to preparing students for success. We deliver programs to more than 13,000 students in Hattiesburg and Long Beach, at teaching and research sites across the Mississippi Gulf Coast, as well as online. We are a community-engaged Carnegie R1 university, earning distinction as one of the nation's leading research institutions.

Southern Miss is known for pioneering work in polymer science, ocean science, spectator sports safety and security, and bringing language to children with communication disorders. We are also a national leader in a broad range of disciplines, including cybersecurity, hydrography, nutrition, aquaculture, kinesiology, and economic development, among others.

We produce graduates ready to enter fields that are leading the way in emerging technologies through programs such as computer engineering, information technology, and ocean engineering. We’re developing the next generation of business leaders, while also responding to critical workforce shortages by producing skilled professionals in education and nursing. With a tradition of excellence in the arts, we are one of only 36 public institutions in the nation accredited in four major areas of the arts. Home to the Golden Eagles, our student-athletes compete in 17 NCAA Division I sports. With a culture marked by passion and persistence, Southern Miss is delivering graduates who are ready for life. For more information, visit www.usm.edu.

As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer/Americans with Disabilities Act institution, The University of Southern Mississippi encourages minorities, women, veterans and persons with disabilities to apply.