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How to Apply

Please include a cover letter by attaching it as the first page of your resume, address your specific interest in the position and DPSS, and outline the skills that directly relate to this position.

Job Summary

The Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) leads all public safety functions within the university, including police, security, and emergency management, and offers an integrated approach to safety and security, operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. DPSS combines the operations of Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint campuses to provide students, visitors, faculty, and staff with a safe and secure environment. Through our partnerships across the university and local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, we use a blended service model to meet the needs of our community and exceed expectations.

Due to sustained growth and increasing complexity of projects within DPSS, we are seeking a strategic, detail-oriented Purchasing Manager to lead and manage all procurement activities across the division. The Purchasing Manager will be responsible for supporting DPSS's operational, safety, and administrative functions by ensuring all purchases are conducted efficiently, transparently, and in alignment with university policies and industry best practices. This role will play a pivotal part in strengthening our financial resilience and enhancing internal controls, serving as a designated backup for the Senior Financial Manager.

Mission Statement

The University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security (DPSS) supports the university's mission by ensuring a safe, secure, and respectful environment for all who live, learn, work, heal, and visit within the community.

Our Vision:
To be the global leader in safety and security services, exceeding all expectations.

Why Work at Michigan?

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, The University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

• Generous paid time off
• Retirement plan with two-for-one matching and immediate vesting
• Multiple health insurance options
• Life and disability insurance
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care

Responsibilities*

• Manage the end-to-end procurement process for goods and services, including needs assessment, sourcing, competitive bidding, negotiation, and contract management.
• Ensure all procurement activities comply with university policies, procedures, and relevant federal, state, and local regulations.
• Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships; manage contract renewals and re-negotiations to ensure terms remain favorable and aligned with DPSS's operational requirements.
• Promote fiscal accountability and cost efficiency by identifying opportunities for savings and driving process improvements in purchasing operations.
• Serve as a resource for staff and vendors on procurement-related questions and provide guidance on university-specific purchasing systems and procedures.
• Monitor, track, and report on all major purchases and projects; prepare and present quarterly procurement reports to divisional and university leadership.
• Collaborate across DPSS to support project needs and provide input on planning for future operational and administrative procurement requirements.
• Ensure timely and accurate completion of competitive bidding processes, maintaining documentation for audit purposes and transparency.
• Serve as the designated backup for the Senior Financial Manager, providing essential business continuity and support for financial operations when needed.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of best practices in public sector and university procurement.
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Finance, or related field.
• Three years of experience in procurement, purchasing, billing, or contract management, preferably in higher education or a public sector setting.
• In-depth knowledge of purchasing principles, competitive bidding practices, and procurement practices.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to pay attention to detail and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and build relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency in standard office software and purchasing systems (e.g., M-Pathways and Microsoft Office applications).
• Must pass a comprehensive public safety background investigation and drug screening.

Modes of Work

This position will work remotely. Positions that are eligible for hybrid or remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Additional Information

All members of DPSS are considered Campus Security Authorities (CSAs) under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. As such, you are required to report any Clery reportable offenses that come to your attention. DPSS employees must also complete the Cleary Compliance training within 14 days of employment and annually thereafter.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.