Purchasing Manager

MITRE Corporation - McLean, VA

Full-time - Mid Level

McLean, VA

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

At MITRE, we are dedicated to addressing our nation's most pressing challenges while ensuring the well-being of our employees. As a not-for-profit corporation, we operate without commercial conflicts, focusing solely on the public interest. Our R&D centers work on impactful projects across various sectors, including cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We are looking for a Purchasing Manager to lead our Purchasing Department, overseeing a team of six purchasing professionals in a Federal Contract environment. This role involves managing cradle-to-grave procurement packages, ensuring compliance with MITRE's Corporate Policies and Federal Acquisition Regulations, and being accountable for purchasing system audits. The Purchasing Manager will also serve as a trusted business partner to internal customers, providing guidance on purchasing actions and compliance issues. This hybrid position requires working 50% of the time on campus, allowing for a balance between meaningful work and a fulfilling life.

Responsibilities

• Oversee/manage/mentor a team of 6 staff purchasing professionals in a Federal Contract environment.
• Provide guidance to project teams on purchasing actions and educate project leaders on compliance issues.
• Review and resolve compliance issues on assigned tasks, ensuring legal requirements are met.
• Support project team compliance with internal processes and purchasing procedures.
• Issue RFPs/RFQs and review proposal submissions based on complexity.
• Perform procurements to support cradle-to-grave orders, including preparation of solicitations and negotiation of terms.
• Ensure procurement file compliance and conduct Cost/Price Analysis.
• Develop and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Implement cost reduction programs to achieve favorable pricing and delivery terms.
• Review performance of subordinate personnel and recommend actions such as promotions or disciplinary measures.
• Assist in planning and executing corporate training for Purchasing department personnel.
• Develop and implement organizational changes to adapt to a dynamic environment.
• Demonstrate critical and strategic thinking skills, along with excellent communication skills.
• Collaborate with other departments to address issues and resolve conflicts.

Requirements

• 10 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 8 years with a Master's degree; or a PhD with 5 years' experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated success in managing staff in Procurement organizations.
• Experience with continuous process improvement methodologies.
• Knowledge of FAR and FAR Supplement regulations.
• Knowledge of CPSR/internal audits and requirements.
• Ability to exercise independent judgment and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrate flexibility and agility in setting priorities amidst competing demands.
• Ability to handle multiple concurrent work streams while producing high-quality output.
• Strong supervisory and interpersonal skills to interact with all levels of stakeholders.
• Proven track record of successful contract negotiations and driving cost savings.
• Strong analytical skills for assessing supplier proposals and performing total cost analysis.

Nice-to-haves

• Demonstrated proficiency in Deltek Costpoint financial System.
• Understanding of Procure-to-Pay Ivalua.
• Proficiency in Microsoft O365, SharePoint, Word, and Excel.
• Experience in negotiating agreements and contract terms.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet aggressive deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.

Benefits

• Competitive benefits package
• Exceptional professional development opportunities
• Culture of innovation that embraces diversity and inclusion
• Flexible work environment
• Career growth opportunities