Chief Procurement Officer - UC Riverside

At a glance

UC Riverside is seeking a Chief Procurement Officer to lead with vision, strategy, and impact across a $900M+ procurement portfolio on its rapidly expanding R1 campus. As the newest member of the Association of American Universities, UCR is redefining excellence in research, innovation, and upward mobility. The CPO will shape the full Procure-to-Pay (P2P) environment—modernizing systems, streamlining campus-wide processes, and supporting critical initiatives like UCR’s forthcoming medical center. You'll lead a high-performing team of 12, build collaborative partnerships across academic and administrative units, and represent UCR in systemwide procurement councils. This is a standout opportunity for a procurement leader ready to step into a campus-wide, executive role. Plus enjoy flexible hybrid work, relocation assistance, and industry-leading retirement offerings. 

Description: What you'll be doing

Another Source’s client, UC Riverside, is seeking a strategic and collaborative Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) to lead its Procurement Services and Business Contracts team. As the newest member of the Association of American Universities, UCR offers a rare opportunity to drive impact at a mission-driven, nationally recognized research institution. 

Reporting to the Associate Vice Chancellor of Business & Financial Services and Controller, the CPO oversees a team of 12 professionals managing strategic sourcing, purchasing, vendor management, P-card programs, and business contracting. With oversight of approximately $900 million in annual spend, you’ll shape a value-driven Procure-to-Pay (P2P) environment that supports compliance, efficiency, and institutional goals—combining strategic leadership with hands-on execution. 

Work Location and Flexibility:   

This is a California-based hybrid leadership role offering flexible remote work options. While relocation to Riverside is not required, the successful candidate will be expected to be on campus 1 to 2 days per week to foster connection, presence, and collaboration with university leadership and stakeholders. 

Why UC Riverside Procurement Services For You: Their Mission:  To expand opportunities for teaching, research and public service by delivering savings and efficient procurement services across the University of California, Riverside  Their Vision: To be acknowledged by University of California, Riverside executive and campus leadership, faculty, staff and students as a high performing strategic partner that is essential to the financial health of the University 

 As the CPO, you will build and strengthen collaborative relationships across academic, research, and administrative departments. Leveraging tools like Oracle Cloud, you’ll drive modernization and process improvement initiatives to enhance transparency, agility, and service delivery. https://procurement.ucr.edu/ 

An Environment of Scale, Innovation, and Impact 

• R1 research university with over 26,000 students and 1,100 faculty 

• 51 research centers and labs supporting cutting-edge innovation 

• Expansive 1,200-acre campus 

• Ranked No. 22 among the nation’s most innovative schools 

• Top 4% globally for plant and animal sciences 

• One of only 54 five-star public universities 

With this scale and academic intensity comes operational complexity. The Chief Procurement Officer will lead a high-impact, enterprise-level function that supports research, academics, and infrastructure across a diverse and growing institution—offering unmatched breadth, scope, and strategic challenge. 

Compensation and Benefits:  UC Riverside offers a competitive salary and benefits package. The anticipated salary range for this role is $123,000 – $182,200, depending on experience. Relocation assistance is provided. 

One of the University of California’s most significant offerings is its comprehensive total compensation package—designed to support employees at every stage of life. In addition to base salary, UC provides outstanding retirement benefits, health and wellness programs, and resources for long-term financial planning. Learn more about UC’s benefits and estimate your total compensation. 

Key Areas of Leadership:  

Strategic Leadership & Vision 

• Shape the long-term strategic direction of Procurement Services and Business Contracts to align with UCR’s institutional goals. 

• Lead the development and implementation of policies and practices that reflect industry best practices, public procurement requirements, and university values. 

Procure-to-Pay Lifecycle Management 

• Oversee the full Procure-to-Pay (P2P) lifecycle 

• Drive initiatives that reduce complexity, increase efficiency, and improve user satisfaction across campus. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Cross-Functional Collaboration 

• Serve as a strategic advisor and liaison to academic departments, administrative leaders, and external partners. 

• Build strong partnerships across campus to anticipate procurement needs, streamline requests, and support critical research, teaching, and operational initiatives. 

Systemwide Leadership & Representation 

• Represent UC Riverside in University of California procurement councils and systemwide initiatives. 

• Contribute to shared services, group buying opportunities, and policy standardization across the UC system. 

Team & Organizational Development 

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and professional growth. 

• Promote cross-training and knowledge sharing to ensure flexibility and continuity across procurement functions. 

Technology, Process Improvement & Compliance 

• Champion the adoption and optimization of technology platforms (e.g., Oracle Cloud Financials) to modernize procurement workflows. 

• Ensure full compliance with local, state, federal, and University of California regulations, particularly around public procurement and contracting. 

• Identify key performance indicators and use data to drive continuous improvement. 

Business Contracts & Risk Mitigation 

• Provide oversight and strategic input on all business contracts, including service agreements, interagency agreements, and other legally binding documents. 

• Negotiate high-value, high-impact contracts, ensuring risk mitigation, legal compliance, and institutional benefit. 

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and/or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience. 

• 8 to 13 years of progressively responsible experience in procurement or supply chain management within a complex organization. 

• Proven experience managing a procurement card program, with a strong understanding of controls, reconciliation, and compliance. 

• Demonstrated expertise in drafting, negotiating, and administering complex business contracts. 

• Advanced experience overseeing modern procurement systems and workflows, with a focus on improving efficiency, transparency, and user experience in large-scale environments. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Advanced degree in business, supply chain management, public administration, or a related field. 

• Professional certification such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) and/or Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO). 

• Familiarity with University of California policies and procedures. 

• At least five years of experience developing and managing RFXs, contracts, and agreements in a multi-departmental or enterprise-level organization. 

• Experience in public procurement and/or within a higher education or research institution. 

• Working knowledge of PeopleSoft and/or Oracle Cloud Financial Procurement platforms. 

• Prior leadership experience, including supervision of professional procurement staff. 

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer with a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.   

Additional Links:   

Total Compensation: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation/understanding-total-compensation/ 

Benefits:  https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html 

UCR Facts:  https://www.ucr.edu/about/ranks-and-facts 

Another Source:  www.anothersource.com  

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