Department: Industry and Defense Programs

Campus Location: Wichita, KS - WSU Main Campus

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically, 8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. Evenings and weekends may be required dependent upon business needs. The job is performed in person and on-site in Wichita, KS.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Details

The Associate Director of Procurement will lead and manage the procurement function for WSU’s Division of Industry and Defense Programs (IDP), ensuring the acquisition of goods and services is conducted in a compliant, ethical, and cost-effective manner. This role is responsible for implementing procurement strategies that support organizational objectives while adhering to all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and internal controls. They will lead a team that is responsible for managing supplier relationships, overseeing purchase contract negotiations, and optimizing procurement processes to ensure transparency, accountability, and efficiency. This position also provides leadership and guidance to procurement staff, promoting a culture of integrity, professionalism, and continuous improvement. They will partner cross-functionally to support organizational goals and optimize procurement processes.

Job Summary

Responsible for leading the procurement function for the division, ensuring compliant, ethical, and cost-effective acquisition of goods and services, supervising procurement staff, managing supplier and contract activities, and promoting procurement best practices and education.

Essential Functions

Ensures all procurement activities comply with applicable laws and regulations.
Ensures all federal procurement activities comply with applicable federal, state, and institutional laws and regulations, including but not limited to Uniform Guidance, the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
Oversees audit readiness by maintaining proper documentation, internal controls, and compliance records. Coordinate with relevant departments to respond to internal and external audits, reviews, and inquiries. Identify and mitigate procurement-related risks.
Develops, maintains, and oversees procurement policies, standard operating procedures, and systems to support efficient, compliant, and cost-effective purchasing practices.
Designs and deploys tools, training, and resources to build procurement capabilities across IDP, ensuring departments and staff understand regulations, policies, and best practices.
Partners with University Purchasing Department, internal departments, laboratories, and other stakeholders to align procurement strategies, provide guidance, and facilitate compliance with federal and institutional requirements.
Promotes a culture of integrity, professionalism, and continuous improvement within the procurement team and across the organization.

Required Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent

Ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in procurement, finance, or contract management, with at least two (2) years in a leadership role. Every 30 hours of related college coursework can be substituted for one (1) year of experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Demonstrated experience in contract negotiation, supplier management, and procurement operations.
Strong knowledge of federal procurement regulations, including Uniform Guidance, FAR, and DFARS.
Knowledge of or experience with State or University procurement policies.
Experience leading and mentoring teams in a professional environment.
Excellent leadership, communication, and collaboration skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail and compliance requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

Advanced Degree.

Experience in audit readiness, compliance, and risk management.

Physical Requirements

Ability to remain in a stationary position.
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment including but not limited to phone, printers, copiers, and calculators.
Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.