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Job Description

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state, and around the world. UW employees bring their energy, creative problem-solving skills to their work and are dedicated to building stronger minds and a healthier world. UW is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse staff; your experiences, perspectives, and unique identities will be honored at the University of Washington. Together, our community strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

Finance, Planning, and Budgeting (FPB) encompasses the major central financial, planning, analytical, and budgeting functions for the University of Washington, including:

• Finance & Budget Strategy

• Institutional Analytics & Decision Support

• Policy, Planning & State Operations

• University Business Services

The **_Contract Specialist_** serves as a key professional resource for the procurement, negotiation, and management of information technology (IT) contracts and related services. This position is responsible for identifying contracting opportunities, leading solicitations, and executing agreements for a broad range of technology products and services, including software, computer hardware, value-added resellers (VARs), and cloud-based solutions. The Contract Specialist ensures all IT procurement activities comply with applicable federal, state, and University policies while meeting business objectives, data security standards, and technical requirements. Working collaboratively with stakeholders across administrative, academic, and IT units, this role develops and implements strategic sourcing approaches that enhance operational efficiency, foster innovation, and optimize cost-effectiveness.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Contract Management and Execution

+ Develop, implement, and oversee contract management plans for IT and technology-related goods and services

+ Lead solicitations and negotiate contracts for IT-related purchases in the University’s best interest

+ Apply knowledge of contract law, procurement regulations, and contracting authority, collaborating with legal counsel as needed

+ Monitor contract spend data and performance metrics; analyze and communicate results and recommendations to stakeholders

+ Evaluate and manage contract extensions, renewals, or re-solicitations aligned with business and compliance needs

+ Identify, assess, and mitigate contractual, financial, and data security risks

Vendor and Departmental Relationship Management

+ Build andmaintaincollaborative relationships with key suppliers, service providers, and campus departments

+ Establish measurable performance metrics and develop supplier scorecards or evaluation tools

+ Conduct regular supplier performance reviews to assess service quality, value, and compliance

+ Provide guidance and training on procurement processes, contractutilization, and compliance

+ Collaborate with departments to resolvepurchasingissues and enhance customer satisfaction

Data Analysis and Commodity Expertise

+ Utilize procurement and reporting tools to collect, manipulate, and analyze contract and spend data

+ Identifytrends, savings opportunities, and areas for increased contract coverage

+ Research andmonitormarket conditions, emerging technologies, and industry trends in IT commodities such as software, hardware, cloud solutions, and cybersecurity

+ Apply market and technical knowledge to improve sourcing strategies and ensureoptimalcontract value

Continuous Improvement and Procurement System Expertise

+ Participate in or lead continuous improvement initiatives using LEAN principles and tools

+ Support cross-departmental projects to improve efficiency, standardize processes, and enhance service delivery

+ Demonstrate expert-level use of the Ariba procurement system and related platforms

+ Provide customer and supplier support to ensure efficient, compliant use of electronic procurement tools

+ Identifyand recommend system or process improvements to streamline procurement operations

Requirements:

+ Bachelor's degree and3 years of progressively responsible experience in purchasing, contract management, ora related area. An equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills have beenacquiredmay substitute foradegree

+ Prior experience in evaluating, negotiating, and managingtechnology contracts and relationships

+ Proventrack recordof successfully managing multiple procurement projects simultaneously and delivering results on schedule.Ability to develop,monitor, and track detailedprocurementproject schedules and timelines.

+ Demonstrated success in building, nurturing, and sustaining positive relationships with customers, vendors, and internal stakeholders

+ Commitment to continuous process improvement within an organizational framework, including familiarity with LEAN or similar methodologies

+ Skilled at analyzing data and presenting insights clearly, using facts and techniques to support decision-making

+ Excellent written and verbal communication skills tailored for diverse audiences, with the ability to lead meetings, deliver presentations, and effectively communicate complex information

+ Proficiencyin Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and experience with procurement or contract management software preferred

+ Demonstrated experience in workingwithdiverse groups andteams;create a culture of inclusion and equity throughout the team while supporting the overall culture of FPB

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$69,720.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$92,004.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81 (https://policy.uw.edu/directory/po/executive-orders/eo-81-prohibiting-discrimination-harassment-and-sexual-misconduct/) .

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected] .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law (https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=28B.112.080) .

University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, among other things, race, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.