Obtain bids/quotes and/or prepare and develop appropriate solicitation documents (IFB/RFP) evaluate, analyze, negotiate (when necessary) and award; Prepares purchase orders, negotiate contracts, document cost savings/avoidance, and all associated documentation in a timely and accurate manner; Executes contracts and purchase orders within delegated signature authority and forward for approval, where necessary; Maintains complete documentation of files, review and approve/disapprove PO pricing changes; Conducts and oversees strategic sourcing activities within assigned categories; Strategically reviews all vendor spending within assigned commodities and determine compliance with Mason and State policies and procedures; Leads sourcing activities within commodity and determine with departmental stakeholders how to achieve the ideal combination of service and price; Customer Service/vendor assistance, contract administration, order expediting, receiving, returns, invoice processing and vendor problems; Assists heads of departments and other University leaders with procurement and contractual matters by providing advice, policy interpretation and guidance; Answers questions or advise University customers and/or vendors on procurement processes and procedures to minimize procurement cycle time and to enhance customer service; Acts as liaison between vendors and the University in procurement related matters; Assists vendors on how to conduct business with the University; Advises and encourages SWaM vendors to certify with the SBSD; Provides general contract administration on all orders and contracts to assure goods and services are provided in accordance with the agreement; Supports and assists University departments, Central Receiving and Accounts Payable personnel to promptly resolve delivery, order status, receiving, material return, and invoice issues; Resolves vendor problems, execute actions to cure when necessary and initiate timely contract renewals, extensions or re-bid process; Develops reliable sources of supply, research product information, liaise with other purchasing organizations; Encourages use of SWaM vendors, where appropriate; Develops alternative, reliable and responsible sources of supply for goods and services through source lists, vendor visits, market analysis, trade shows, exhibits and professional purchasing organizations; Encourages participation by small, women-owned and minority businesses and assist them with certification; and. Responsibilities: Performs work at the highest level of difficulty related to the solicitation and execution of complex procurement contracts and review of procurement and material procedures and activities; Conducts procurement activities frequently in excess of $100,000 per procurement; Applies extensive industry knowledge and agency regulations in formulating the most complex term-contracts for the provision of volume goods and services purchasing services through either competitive bid (IFB), competitive negotiation (RFP), Sole Source or Emergency procurement; Uses critical skills and knowledge to determine best method of procurement and handle all procurement transactions within delegated authority; Works independently and exercise considerable discretion and judgment within established procedures and authority/responsibility; Reviews purchase requisitions submitted by University departments for accuracy and completeness; Determines best method of procurement; Oversees and administers RFP''s from start to finish ensuring compliance with State Law.