PROCUREMENT AND CONTRACT DIRECTOR

 Salary Information:         B28, $9,166.66 – $10,00.00/MO.

State Classification:         Director III – 1622

FLSA Status:                     Exempt

Posting Number:             23-57372-1

Location:                           Austin, TX

HOW TO APPLY

Apply online via CAPPS. Applicants applying in WIT must complete the supplemental questions to be considered for the position. To complete the supplemental questions, go to CAPPS Recruit: https://capps.taleo.net/careersection/ex/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en.

 WHO ARE WE

The Texas Department of Agriculture Financial Services Division supports TDA programs by performing financial duties in the areas of accounting, budget, purchasing, contracting, accounts payable and payroll. The Accounting Section manages the agency general ledger, prepares the Annual Financial Report, administers cash management, and develops agency financial reports. TDA receives and distributes grant funds, and Accounting provides additional oversight to grant program disbursements and reporting.

 WHAT YOU’LL DO

The Procurement and Contract Director will work in a fast-paced, multi-faceted environment performing highly advanced (senior-level) managerial work providing direction and guidance in strategic operations for the Financial Services’ procurement processes, contract development and supplier diversity mandates. You will work on developing, executing and achieving the strategic goals and objectives of the division; manage complex issues and be involved in long-term planning to contribute to the attainment of the agency’s goals, objectives and mission. You will be responsible for performing statutory functions as purchasing and contract director. You will work under minimal supervision with extensive latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgement.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Direct and manage the daily operations of Procurement, Contracting & HUB (Historically Underutilized Business) including personnel management functions, budgeting for and controlling expenses and ensuring compliance with agency policies and administrative requirements.

Ensure the division staff is technically proficient in meeting long-term operational goals through activities such as classroom training, team building, on-the-job training, operational manuals, job rotations and special assignments and projects; ensure employees share knowledge through cross training and documented procedures.

Oversee, review, analyze, and manage the development of solicitations and contracts. Analyze purchasing and contracting activities for compliance and efficiencies. Oversee development and implementation of strategies and goals, reporting, and good faith efforts and activities for the HUB program.

Identify potential areas of purchasing and contracting compliance vulnerability and related risk. Develop corrective actions plans, including training, and work with agency staff on implementation.

Develop guidelines, procedures and rules. Monitor compliance with policies and procedures. Plan, implement, coordinate, monitor and evaluate purchasing policies and procedures consistent with Comptroller rules. Develop, coordinate and organize process analysis and improvement activities to ensure processes and procedures are efficient and consistent with law.

Follow all TDA policies and procedures.

Perform other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s Degree (field (one year of work experience related to the primary responsibilities may substitute for one year of college).

Six (6) years’ work experience administering purchasing and contracting at a State of Texas agency.

Experience serving in a lead, supervisory or managerial role.

Certification as a Certified Texas Contract Developer (CTCD), formerly known as a Certified Texas Purchasing Manager (CTPM), or equivalent.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Work experience in an executive or director capacity for state purchasing or contract operation(s).

Three (3) years’ experience serving in a lead, supervisory or managerial role.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

Knowledge of the principles, objectives and procedures of governmental planning; of the legislative process, procurement and contracting; keen governmental awareness in the regulatory processes for government programs.  

Skill in leadership, management and strategic planning; problem solving and relationship management; conflict resolution; ; in interpreting the regulations related to the assigned programs and ensuring that regulations are followed in providing customer service excellence to both internal and external customers by demonstrating poise, tact, and diplomacy to maintain positive working/professional relations; strong analytical and project management;  the use of a computer and applicable software. and critical thinking skills.

Ability to interpret and learn TDA policies and procedures and the laws and regulations administered and enforced by the division; direct and organize program activities and/or business functions; establish goals and objectives that support the strategic plan; identify problems, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions; develop and evaluate policies and procedures; prepare reports; communicate effectively; build effective and strategic relationships among diverse groups of people; energize, develop and build rapport at all levels within an organization; anticipate needs and risks; supervise the work of others; and exercise sound judgment and discretion.

ENVIRONMENTAL/PHYSICAL CONDITIONS

Normal office work environment and may have exposure to dust and environmental allergens consistent with normal business activities and human contact. Mostly sedentary in nature but may involve walking; standing; pulling and pushing; kneeling, stooping and bending; performing tasks requiring fine motor skills and coordination; and safely lifting and carrying items weighing up to 30 pounds. Must be able work extended periods at a computer and may require working extended hours and some evenings and weekends, as needed. May be required to travel, which will include overnight. May involve travel (up to 5%*), occasionally overnight.

BENEFITS

The State of Texas offers a variety of benefits for you and your family that are comprehensive and, on average, make up about one-third of total compensation. Benefits include:

QUALIFIED EMPLOYER: In addition, the Texas Department of Agriculture is considered a qualified employer for the Department of Education’s Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.

Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. A skills exercise may be conducted at the time of the interview.

Due to the high volume of applications, we do not accept telephone calls.  If you submitted your application through the CAPPS Career Center, you may also check the status of your application by accessing your profile and selecting My Jobpage and selecting My Submissions.

*A valid government-issued driver’s license, which is recognized by the Texas Department of Public Safety and in good standing, and an acceptable driving record are required. TDA will verify this information with the Texas Department of Public Safety. Applicants with a driver’s license not issued by the State of Texas should obtain and be prepared to provide a copy of their current driving record on or before their first day

Equal Employment Opportunity: The Texas Department of Agriculture is an equal opportunity employer (EEO) and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, disability, religion, gender, national origin, age sexual orientation, veteran’s status or protected activity. TDA provides accommodations for persons with disabilities in accordance with the American with Disabilities Act. If you need help with the employment process or require other accommodations, please contact the Human Resources office for assistance at (512) 463-7454.

TDA participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security, with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

Veterans and Former Foster Child Employment Preference: TDA complies with the provisions of the veterans and former foster child employment preference acts. Please contact our Human Resources-Veterans Liaison at (512) 463-7454 for assistance.

Go to https://texasskillstowork.com/, https://www.onetonline.org/, or http://www.careeronestop.org/ for assistance translating your military experience and training courses into civilian job terms, qualifications/requirements, and skill sets.

Additional Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Code or Crosswalk information is available from the Texas State Auditor’s Office at Program Management MOS Codes.