Description

THE OPPORTUNITY:
OCERS is seeking a Senior Manager, Contracts and Operations Support Services to provide strategic leadership and oversight of the agency’s procurement, contract management, and operational support functions. Reporting to the Deputy CEO, this senior management role manages the full contract lifecycle – from developing and issuing competitive solicitations (RFPs/RFQs) and evaluating bids, to negotiating agreements, monitoring performance, and ensuring timely close-out – all while maintaining compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. In addition to procurement and vendor management, the Senior Manager will oversee facilities management, property and liability insurance administration, mail processing, records management, and space planning. The Senior Manager serves as a hands-on, work-producing manager while providing leadership and oversight for the team. This role is also charged with leveraging modern technology, including AI and machine learning tools, to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and achieve cost savings. As OCERS’ principal contracting authority and a key advisor to executive leadership, the Senior Manager will lead a multifunctional team, develop agency-wide procurement policies, and drive innovation to meet evolving operational needs.

PERFORMANCE ATTRIBUTES:

Performance in this role requires a combination of technical expertise and strong leadership attributes:

Strategic Leadership: Provides direction and vision for procurement and support services; anticipates agency needs and drives improvements in contracting processes.
Analytical Judgment: Uses critical thinking to interpret complex legal, financial, and technical information and to make sound, evidence-based decisions.
Communication: Clearly and persuasively communicates complex information to diverse audiences, ensuring understanding and alignment across the organization.
Integrity and Ethics: Upholds the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and accountability in contracting and office management practices.
Collaboration and Interpersonal Skills: Forges partnerships across teams and with external stakeholders to deliver on strategic goals; guides and motivates staff; fosters a positive team environment.
Adaptability: Remains flexible and resilient in response to changing priorities, tight deadlines, and evolving regulations.

Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:

Graduation from an accredited university or college with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Contract Management, or a closely related field.

AND

Five (5) years of progressively responsible management experience in procurement and contract management including supervisory responsibilities.

Special Notes, Licenses, or Requirements:

• A valid California class C driver’s license or the ability to arrange for timely transportation is required.
• Successful completion of a background investigation.

Highly Desirables:

• Proficiency with contract management software, ERP systems and emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML tools).
• Designation as a Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM), Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), and/or Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO).
• Experience in local government, public-sector retirement systems or a regulated environment.

KEY COMPETENCIES AND STRATEGIC LEADERSHIP QUALITIES:

The Senior Manager, Contracts and Operations Support Services is expected to demonstrate the following competencies and leadership attributes to successfully fulfill the responsibilities of this position:

Strategic Vision and Innovation: Anticipates organizational needs in procurement, contracting, and operations support; identifies opportunities to improve processes and outcomes through innovative approaches and emerging technologies, including AI and machine learning solutions.
Operational Excellence: Ensures that procurement, contracting, facilities, and support service operations are executed efficiently, effectively, and in compliance with applicable regulations and policies. Establishes clear performance metrics and continuously evaluates results to ensure optimal use of resources. Responsible for both managerial oversight and hands-on execution of core departmental functions.
Technology Leadership: Champions the integration of technology tools to streamline workflows, strengthen vendor oversight, enhance reporting capabilities, and improve internal and external customer experiences.
Ethics and Accountability: Maintains the highest standards of fairness, transparency, and stewardship in all procurement and operational support activities; models integrity and sound judgment in decision-making.
Analytical and Critical Thinking: Evaluates complex data, contract terms, and operational needs to make evidence-based decisions that mitigate risk and advance organizational goals.
Change Leadership: Leads teams through organizational, regulatory, or technological changes with clarity, engagement, and a focus on long-term success.
Collaborative Influence: Builds and maintains strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, vendors, contractors, and external partners; facilitates cooperation across functions to achieve shared objectives.
Talent Development: Provides clear direction, coaching, and professional development opportunities to staff, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Results Orientation: Focuses on achieving measurable results in cost savings, operational efficiency, compliance, and service delivery; consistently meets or exceeds organizational objectives.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:
Sample of KSA’s necessary to perform essential duties of the position.

Procurement and Contracting Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of public-sector procurement principles, competitive bidding processes, negotiation strategies and applicable laws.
Contract Administration: Skilled in drafting, reviewing, and managing complex contracts; experienced in cost/price analysis and compliance oversight.  
Analytical Abilities: Strong ability to interpret and apply data, identify trends and develop actionable solutions. 
Leadership and Interpersonal: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and develop teams; skilled in fostering collaboration across departments and with external stakeholders. 
Technical Proficiency: Expertise with standard office applications (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite) and  proven track record of adopting and integrating AI/ML solutions to improve efficiency, accuracy and decision-making.
Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively, while maintaining attention to detail.