Chief Procurement Officer
Job Description
- Ensures the consistent application of contract requirements by implementing best-in-class acquisition practices from federal, industry, and academic sectors to improve procurement quality and compliance across the organization.
- Develops and executes comprehensive acquisition strategies, including operating plans, performance metrics, and long-range goals to meet the organization’s evolving needs.
- Leads the development and execution of departmental objectives that align with both short- and long-term organizational goals and support overall performance targets.
- Oversees and participates in key projects or initiatives, serving as a representative on procurement-related matters, such as internal committees, working groups, and external collaborations.
- Builds and maintains strong, collaborative relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners to ensure alignment of expectations and performance outcomes.
- Implements a proactive and consistent communication strategy to engage key stakeholders early and throughout the procurement process.
- Fosters leadership and professional development within the procurement team to strengthen capabilities and organizational effectiveness.
- Designs and delivers training programs to equip internal customers with strategic tools and best practices throughout the acquisition lifecycle.
- Identifies strategic sourcing opportunities and promotes vendor partnerships to optimize procurement value across the organization and affiliated entities.
- Advises executive leadership on procurement policies and decisions to ensure alignment with broader organizational goals, contractual obligations, and regulatory requirements.
- Manages a team by overseeing recruitment, performance management, training, disciplinary actions, and other leadership responsibilities.
- Performs additional responsibilities and special projects as assigned.
- Ensures all duties are carried out in compliance with applicable environmental, health, and safety regulations and best practices.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree with a Discipline in Business, Finance, Legal Studies or Economics and a minimum of 10+ years of experience or equivalent; Master’s Degree preferred. Law Degree preferred. 5+ years of management experience in business and/or financial operations.
- Professional certification, such as Certified Procurement Manager (CPM), Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM), Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) desired, not required.
- Ability to interpret contract terms and conditions, including FAR and DEAR.
- Experience in the implementation of procurement systems preferred
Meet Your Recruiter
Erik Butzen
Technical Recruiter
Erik Butzen is a skilled and compassionate Senior Recruiter passionate about empowering individuals to advance in their careers. With two years of dedicated service at Sterling, Erik has already significantly impacted the organization's talent acquisition efforts.
Having honed his expertise over five years in the field of recruiting, Erik possesses a deep understanding of the industry's intricacies. His journey began with the desire to assist individuals in finding opportunities that would propel their professional growth forward.
As a Senior Recruiter, Erik takes great pride in his ability to help people make meaningful advancements in their careers. Whether it's guiding a candidate through the interview process, providing valuable insights into the job market, or matching the right talent with the perfect role, Erik is committed to positively impacting the lives of those he interacts with.
One of Erik's most valuable pieces of advice to both hiring managers and fellow recruiters is to ask a lot of questions. Understanding the needs and expectations of both candidates and employers is essential to finding the best fit for both parties.