Chief Procurement Officer

Primary PurposeThe Procurement Services Division is a unit reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor and Controller in the Finance and Operations Division. It consists of the Purchasing Department, Central Warehouse, and Surplus Property. The unit is responsible for procuring, receiving, inventory control, and disposition of all commodities and services for the University while abiding by applicable North Carolina General Statutes, Federal procurement and grant requirements, the North Carolina Administrative Code, the Division of Purchase and Contract Purchasing Manual, North Carolina State Auditors and other applicable state regulatory agencies. The Chief Procurement Officer plays a critical role in ensuring that Appalachian State University’s procurement decisions advance institutional priorities, protect public resources, and deliver measurable value—while maintaining the highest standards of compliance, transparency, and service.Essential Duties And ResponsibilitiesStrategic Procurement Leadership Develops and executes a strategic procurement framework that aligns purchasing activity with institutional priorities, UNC System initiatives, and public stewardship obligations. Shifts procurement from a transactional service model to a proactive, advisory, and value‑focused function . Identifies opportunities for cost containment, cost avoidance, standardization, and supplier optimization through data analysis and spend visibility. Procurement, Contracting, and Compliance Oversight Reviews and approves solicitations, contract awards, and procurement actions for goods and services. Ensures compliance with all applicable state, federal, and UNC System procurement requirements . Serves as the University authority on procurement interpretation, exception management, and risk mitigation. Maintains audit‑ready processes and transparent documentation. Central Warehouse Administration Provides strategic oversight of Central Warehouse operations, including inventory management, central receiving, and distribution. Aligns warehouse operations with procurement planning, demand forecasting, and sustainability initiatives. Ensures cost‑effective operations while maintaining service standards. Surplus Property Management Oversees Surplus Property operations to ensure compliant, ethical, and environmentally responsible disposition of University assets. Integrates surplus activity with asset lifecycle planning and institutional sustainability goals. University Purchasing Card (P‑Card) Program Provides governance and strategic oversight of the P‑Card Program. Ensures appropriate training, controls, monitoring, and compliance. Uses P‑Card data to enhance spend analytics and procurement decision‑making. Personnel, Budget, and Organizational Leadership Exercises authority over personnel management, departmental budgeting, and procurement decision‑making. Leads, mentors, and develops staff to support a high‑performing, service‑oriented procurement organization. Promotes professional development, succession planning, and continuous improvement.Minimum QualificationsA Bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, or other directly related field is required. The candidate must have five years of senior managerial procurement experience, preferably in higher education, along with five years of direct supervisory experience. Other requirements include a demonstrated leadership ability that includes excellent oral and written communication skills to relate effectively to departments, vendors, and employees, and strong leadership skills. Candidates with knowledge of the North Carolina State Purchasing Policies, administering PCard programs, experience with Banner ERP System, and Jagger e-procurement solutions will be given preference.Preferred QualificationsKnowledge of North Carolina State Purchasing Policies and public procurement regulations. Experience administering a Purchasing Card (P‑Card) Program . Experience with Banner ERP , JAGGAER /SciQuest , or comparable e‑procurement systems. Professional certification ( CPSM , C.P.M., CPPO , CPP , or equivalent).