Buyer III

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the ’Trojan Family," within a vibrant university culture.

The Department of Business Services is seeking a Professional Services Sr. Buyer (Buyer III) to join its team.  The department of Business Services is comprised of Procurement Services, Strategic Sourcing, Supplier Diversity Services, Disbursement Control and Accounts Payable, Business Operations, and Mailing, and Material Management Services. These departments are responsible for the purchase and payment of goods and services on behalf of the University in accordance with the policies set forth by the University, Sponsored Projects, Internal Revenue Service, and State Board of Equalization.

This position is a key member of the Procurement Services team and is responsible for executing day-to-day procurement activities which include collaboration with university departments and suppliers, contract review, negotiations, issue resolution, risk mitigation, supplier performance management, and assisting with strategic sourcing initiatives.  The buyer serves as the key link between USC departments and suppliers to ensure a seamless flow of goods and services to support university demands and expectations

Job Responsibilities:

The Buyer III will:

• Be responsible for the complete procurement process.  While the primary duties relate to Professional Services, additional responsibilities could cover a broad range of categories, including goods, services, and independent contractors. Must have a comprehensive understanding of the general procurement process, including complex bid solicitations, deliverable schedules, Contract and Statement of Work (SOW) review, and e-procurement ordering and payment systems.

• Develop effective relationships and maintain exceptional customer service with department stakeholders.

• Assist departments in the evaluation of Professional Services, ensuring that customers' expectations and requirements are met, while adhering to USC purchasing standards, and maximizing cost savings and overall value to USC.  Review SOW’s for pricing, level of effort, overall quality and completeness, and to determine the best procurement method.

• Research and source hard to find services and items, solicit and analyze quotations and evaluate supplier proposals on price, product, service, and overall value.

• Perform research and analysis on the services requested, maintaining adequate knowledge of the industry, trends, and product information. Provide pricing and proposal guidance to the internal customer based on market pricing and/or trends; gaining subject matter knowledge through research and past experience.

• Negotiate complex projects involving multiple service elements on price, quality, statement of work, and all contractual elements.

• Maintain positive collaboration with strategic sourcing team on day to day efforts required for implementing sourcing initiatives and supplier performance.

• Understand the various elements in a contract with the ability to draft, discuss, and negotiate contract elements including the general Terms and Conditions, unique specification and pricing.  Must be able to format deliverable schedules, payment terms, and other commercial elements into a contract for the majority of requested projects.

• Provide strong service, support, and leadership to Business Services, other University team members, internal clients, and suppliers. Communicate effectively to all levels of the internal and external organization on proposal, category, and supplier information. Provide guidance to other buyers and assist them in problem resolution. Keep in contact with appropriate personnel to ensure satisfactory operations, maintain consistent communication, and build strong business relationships.

• Perform year-end review of contracts, standard contract items and licensing agreements for renewal or renegotiation; negotiate contracts and price agreements to enhance cost savings and quality of service. Produce reports in a timely manner with the ability to present these reports to management.

• Effectively resolve conflicts at the department and vendor levels while coordinating delivery, service, installation, etc.

• Ensure procurement efforts comply with internal and external requirements and regulations as well as good purchasing practice; provide information to faculty and staff on government restrictions and regulations and university policy and procedures related to purchasing.

• Ensure assigned purchase orders are processed with proper terms & conditions and within university policy & procedures.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree (Business or related field preferred)

• 5 years minimum experience

• Advanced knowledge of highly complex or specialized area(s) of procurement (i.e. Professional Services, Consulting, Marketing, etc.)

• Knowledge of procurement regulations, and practices

• ERP system knowledge

• Strong communication (written & verbal)

• Exceptional time management, organization, and prioritization skills

• Superior customer service and adaptability to changing requirements

• Outstanding conflict resolution and ability to effectively work in a team environment

• Ability to negotiate and influence others

• Strong relationship building and stakeholder management experience

• Excellent analytical & research skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite products (i.e. Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree

• 7 or more years of progressively more responsible procurement experience

• Procurement certification (i.e. CPM)

The USC Finance Division – Business Services values accountability, teamwork, open communication, integrity, and opportunities for growth & professional development. Join us – apply today !