University of South Carolina
Executive Director, Purchasing
🇺🇸 Columbia, SC
🕑 Full-Time
💰 $140K
💻 Other
🗓️ December 4th, 2025
Edtech.com's Summary
University of South Carolina is hiring an Executive Director, Purchasing. This role leads the system-wide purchasing and procurement operations, ensuring compliance with procurement codes and policies while supporting academic and research excellence. The Executive Director oversees strategic sourcing, contract management, vendor relations, and modernization of procurement processes across all campuses.
Highlights
- Provide executive leadership and oversight of USC system-wide purchasing operations.
- Ensure compliance with South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code, USC policies, and federal regulations.
- Supervise purchasing directors, managers, and staff to promote integrity and professional excellence.
- Oversee contract development, competitive solicitations, negotiations, and vendor management.
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives emphasizing cost savings, supplier diversity, and sustainability.
- Collaborate with university leadership and departments for procurement planning and compliance.
- Lead procurement modernization efforts including automation, eProcurement systems, and vendor management tools.
- Develop and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and purchasing budgets.
- Serve as liaison to state procurement offices, auditors, and oversight agencies.
- Required qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or related field, plus at least 10 years of procurement experience including 5 years in senior management; preferred qualifications include a master's degree and certifications like CPPO, CPPB, or CPSM.
- Experience with enterprise systems such as PeopleSoft or similar ERP/eProcurement platforms is preferred.
- Starting salary approximately $140,485; full-time position with a 37.5-hour workweek.
Executive Director, Purchasing Full Description
Executive Director, Purchasing
Please see Special Instructions for more details.
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by January 5, 2026.
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement Programs
- Paid Tuition
- Dependent Scholarships
- Annual Leave
- Sick Leave
- 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Professional Development Opportunities
Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Posting Details
Posting Summary
Logo
Posting Number | STA00950PO25
Job Family | Procurement and Inventory Control
Job Function | Procurement
USC Market Title | Executive Director, Procurement
Link to USC Market Title | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/199174
Job Level | E1 - Directors and Executives
Business Title (Internal Title) | Executive Director, Purchasing
Campus | Columbia
Work County | Richland
College/Division | Division of Administration and Finance
Department | DAF Purchasing and Central Supply
State Pay Band | Unclassified
Approved Starting Salary | $140,485
Advertised Salary Range | Salary commensurate with qualifications.
Location of Vacancy | Columbia, SC
Part/Full Time | Full Time
Hours per Week | 37.5
Work Schedule | Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Basis | 12 months
Job Search Category | Other Professional
Posting Number | STA00950PO25
Job Family | Procurement and Inventory Control
Job Function | Procurement
USC Market Title | Executive Director, Procurement
Link to USC Market Title | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/titles/199174
Job Level | E1 - Directors and Executives
Business Title (Internal Title) | Executive Director, Purchasing
Campus | Columbia
Work County | Richland
College/Division | Division of Administration and Finance
Department | DAF Purchasing and Central Supply
State Pay Band | Unclassified
Approved Starting Salary | $140,485
Advertised Salary Range | Salary commensurate with qualifications.
Location of Vacancy | Columbia, SC
Part/Full Time | Full Time
Hours per Week | 37.5
Work Schedule | Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Basis | 12 months
Job Search Category | Other Professional
About USC
About University of South Carolina | From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement | The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Veterans' Preference Statement | The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal at https://uscjobs.sc.edu. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary | The Executive Director of Purchasing provides strategic leadership, direction, and oversight of the University of South Carolina’s system-wide purchasing and procurement operations. The Executive Director ensures that all procurement activities are conducted in accordance with the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code, USC policies and procedures, and applicable federal regulations. This position plays a critical role in safeguarding public resources, enhancing operational efficiency, supporting academic and research excellence, and promoting supplier diversity and sustainability across all campuses.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience | Requires a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or a job related field and at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or contract administration, including five (5) years in a senior management role.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials |
Preferred Qualifications | Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field. Certification as a Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). Experience within a higher education or public-sector environment governed by the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code. Familiarity with enterprise systems such as PeopleSoft or similar ERP/eProcurement platforms.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities | Thorough knowledge of state and federal statutes and regulations pertaining to higher education procurement and financial management and ability to analyze and interpret data. Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of University, state, federal and other external personnel.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, theories and terminology of procurement and contract negotiations.
• Knowledge of state government procurement processes with emphasis on higher education.
• Knowledge of establishing KPIs and data metrics to monitor performance.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex financial data and reports.
• Ability to plan, organize, review and supervise the work of subordinates.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience | Requires a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or a job related field and at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or contract administration, including five (5) years in a senior management role.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials |
Preferred Qualifications | Master’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related field. Certification as a Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB), or Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM). Experience within a higher education or public-sector environment governed by the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code. Familiarity with enterprise systems such as PeopleSoft or similar ERP/eProcurement platforms.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities | Thorough knowledge of state and federal statutes and regulations pertaining to higher education procurement and financial management and ability to analyze and interpret data. Ability to communicate effectively with all levels of University, state, federal and other external personnel.
• Knowledge of the principles, practices, theories and terminology of procurement and contract negotiations.
• Knowledge of state government procurement processes with emphasis on higher education.
• Knowledge of establishing KPIs and data metrics to monitor performance.
• Ability to analyze and interpret complex financial data and reports.
• Ability to plan, organize, review and supervise the work of subordinates.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
Job Duties
Job Duty | Provide executive leadership and oversight of all purchasing operations across the USC System, including procurement of goods, services, and equipment in compliance with state and university requirements. Ensure adherence to the South Carolina Consolidated Procurement Code and USC procurement policies and procedures, maintaining transparency and audit readiness. Supervise purchasing directors, managers and professional staff, fostering a culture of integrity, customer service, and professional excellence.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 30Job Duty | Oversee contract development, competitive solicitations, negotiations, renewals, and vendor management to ensure optimal value and performance.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15Job Duty | Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives that achieve cost savings, operational efficiency, and compliance with state procurement regulations. Develop and implement strategic procurement plans that align with institutional priorities and regulatory requirements. Ensure procurement practices advance the university’s goals in supplier diversity, sustainability, and local economic impact.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15Job Duty | Provide expert guidance and consultation to university leadership, departments, and campuses on procurement planning and compliance. Collaborate with academic, administrative, and facilities units to forecast purchasing needs and support operational goals. Collaborate with the University Finance Offices, Legal Counsel, Risk Management, and Facilities Planning to ensure alignment of purchasing with institutional and regulatory goals. Provide professional and technical assistance to top university management to ensure financial compliance by analyzing and interpreting federal, state, and agency policies.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15Job Duty | Lead efforts to modernize procurement operations through process improvements, automation initiatives, and implementation of eProcurement systems, procurement cards, and vendor management tools. Manage vendor relationships and supplier performance, including promoting supplier diversity and local business engagement.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10Job Duty | Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and reports to measure purchasing effectiveness. Develop and monitor purchasing budgets and performance metrics.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10Job Duty | Serve as the primary liaison to state procurement offices, auditors, and other oversight agencies. Represent the University in meetings with the South Carolina Division of Procurement Services, auditors, and other state agencies. Develop and maintain collaborative and professional relationships on behalf of the University.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 5
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 30Job Duty | Oversee contract development, competitive solicitations, negotiations, renewals, and vendor management to ensure optimal value and performance.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15Job Duty | Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives that achieve cost savings, operational efficiency, and compliance with state procurement regulations. Develop and implement strategic procurement plans that align with institutional priorities and regulatory requirements. Ensure procurement practices advance the university’s goals in supplier diversity, sustainability, and local economic impact.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15Job Duty | Provide expert guidance and consultation to university leadership, departments, and campuses on procurement planning and compliance. Collaborate with academic, administrative, and facilities units to forecast purchasing needs and support operational goals. Collaborate with the University Finance Offices, Legal Counsel, Risk Management, and Facilities Planning to ensure alignment of purchasing with institutional and regulatory goals. Provide professional and technical assistance to top university management to ensure financial compliance by analyzing and interpreting federal, state, and agency policies.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 15Job Duty | Lead efforts to modernize procurement operations through process improvements, automation initiatives, and implementation of eProcurement systems, procurement cards, and vendor management tools. Manage vendor relationships and supplier performance, including promoting supplier diversity and local business engagement.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10Job Duty | Develop and maintain key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and reports to measure purchasing effectiveness. Develop and monitor purchasing budgets and performance metrics.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 10Job Duty | Serve as the primary liaison to state procurement offices, auditors, and other oversight agencies. Represent the University in meetings with the South Carolina Division of Procurement Services, auditors, and other state agencies. Develop and maintain collaborative and professional relationships on behalf of the University.
Essential Function | Yes
Percentage of Time | 5
Position Attributes
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive | No
Hazardous weather category | Essential
Hazardous weather category | Essential
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies | 1
Desired Start Date | 02/02/2026
Job Open Date | 12/03/2025
Job Close Date | 01/05/2026
Open Until Filled | No
Special Instructions to Applicant | Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by January 5, 2026.
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
Health and Life Insurance Retirement Programs Paid Tuition Dependent Scholarships Annual Leave Sick Leave 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday) Paid Parental Leave Professional Development Opportunities
Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Quicklink for Posting | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/199175
EEO Statement | The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Desired Start Date | 02/02/2026
Job Open Date | 12/03/2025
Job Close Date | 01/05/2026
Open Until Filled | No
Special Instructions to Applicant | Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by January 5, 2026.
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
Health and Life Insurance Retirement Programs Paid Tuition Dependent Scholarships Annual Leave Sick Leave 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday) Paid Parental Leave Professional Development Opportunities
Click here to learn more about why you should work at USC.
Quicklink for Posting | https://uscjobs.sc.edu/postings/199175
EEO Statement | The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- * Do you have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Public Administration, or a job related field and at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or contract administration, including five (5) years in a senior management role?
- Yes
- No
- * What is the largest number of staff you have supervised, and what types of positions were they?
(Open Ended Question) - * Give an example of a process you improved or streamlined in a previous role.
(Open Ended Question)
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- List of References and Contact Information
Optional Documents
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