About the Opportunity
This in-person role at the University of Alberta's North Campus in Edmonton involves leading the acquisition coordination for supplies and services. The Acquisition Coordination Lead, Supplies & Services is responsible for planning, sourcing, and general administration of all small, medium, and large, routine to complex supply and service contracts. This work is conducted in accordance with public procurement policies and procedures that govern the University.
This Lead performs a wide range of contract acquisition tasks. These include planning, bidder prequalification, developing and maintaining prequalified bidder lists, and creating detailed bid solicitation packages. The role also involves coordinating bid analysis, both technical and commercial, and conducting supplier negotiations prior to award. After award, the Lead administers day-to-day contract obligations and manages changes for all service and construction type contracts.
The Acquisition Coordination Lead reports directly to the Operational Excellence Manager and is a member of the Operational Excellence Quality Management team. This position has direct reports and requires a high degree of collaboration with leaders from Procurement and Contract Management (PCM) and Trades Infrastructure & Maintenance (TIM).
Key responsibilities include acquisition planning and coordination. This involves developing detailed contract and supply acquisition plans in alignment with public procurement guidelines, as well as managing the full bidding lifecycle from scoping and bid evaluation to final selection and contract closeout. The Lead serves as the primary TIM representative to manage preferred supplier agreements, coordinate cross-functional scope alignment, and resolve vendor requests for information and contract clarifications. Financial and data administration duties include executing order entries within the UofA PCM SupplyNet system, tracking purchase order and contractor deliverables, managing change orders, and reviewing milestone invoices to authorise payments against budgets.
The role also encompasses acquisition reporting and data compiling. This includes assembling, verifying, and maintaining formal invitations to tender and comprehensive bidding packages on a per-project or work-order basis. The Lead compiles and presents formal award request packages and bid tabulations to Procurement and Contract Management to justify and execute final contracts. Furthermore, annual statistics on material supply, contractor performance evaluations, and equitable hiring practices are tracked and reported to support continuous compliance and fair sourcing.
Miscellaneous acquisition activities are also part of this position. The Lead guides the development of annual maintenance agreements and TIM business process flows, proactively recommending workflow improvements to optimise efficiency. They actively build the vendor pipeline through networking and cold calling to spark supplier and contractor interest in working with the university. Additionally, the role involves participating in contractor safety breach investigations, uploading operational documents into the CMMS system, and staying current with emerging contractor and inventory management technologies.
What You'll Bring
Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in a related supply chain management program, with a Certified Public Procurement Buyer (CPPB) certification being preferred. Five years of experience in a mid-level intermediate contract administration role is required, ideally within a commercial maintenance and construction environment. An additional five years of experience in a material acquisition type role is also essential, preferably in a commercial maintenance and construction setting.
Extensive experience in commercial material and contract acquisition within a regulated public procurement environment is necessary, including expertise in proponent selection, qualification, and auditing. A thorough working knowledge of material and contract administration, specifically within a multi-trade, commercial construction environment, is also expected.
A proven track record in supplier performance coordination, contract reporting, and utilising critical thinking to resolve complex contractual issues in a timely manner is vital. Exceptional verbal and written communication skills are a must, with a demonstrated ability to write proposals, deliver presentations, and effectively negotiate contractual agreements.
Strong organisational skills and attention to detail are important, coupled with a collaborative mindset for cross-functional teamwork. Proficiency in Google Suite and relevant industry applications is also required for this role.
Benefits
This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting the University of Alberta's commitment to its employees.
About the University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a vibrant community of knowledge seekers, change makers, and world shapers who lead with purpose every day. It is home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students, and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide. Your work here will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people, from students and community members to renowned researchers and innovators. Their discoveries and solutions contribute to making the world healthier, safer, stronger, and more just.
The University of Alberta acknowledges its location on Treaty 6 territory and respects the histories, languages, and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit, and all First Peoples of Canada. Their presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.
The University of Alberta is dedicated to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates, and fosters a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are encouraged. We welcome applications from all qualified persons, including women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University.
Operating one of the largest campus district energy systems in North America, the utilities team at the University plays a vital role in maintaining and advancing the infrastructure that serves over 70,000 people daily. Their efforts ensure efficient and sustainable energy services across the campus and greater campus area.