Lead Buyer

About the role

The Lead Buyer will provide strategic leadership across the procurement cycle for complex acquisitions at McGill University. This position focuses on needs analysis, development of contracting strategies, and timely execution of high‑complexity contracts while ensuring compliance with university policies and regulatory frameworks.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the pre‑award phases of the procurement cycle, including defining needs, developing procurement blueprints, and awarding contracts.
• Receive and assess contract requests, rank risk, and create contract records.
• Collect spending data, benchmark contracts, and engage with suppliers to assess market trends.
• Develop contracting approaches, obtain approvals, and prepare tender documents or negotiation packages.
• Conduct competitive tenders, verify supplier eligibility, and ensure compliance with legal and policy requirements.
• Determine successful tenderers, finalize contract documents, and secure necessary authorizations.
• Draft contract announcements, submit contracts for signature, and update catalogue items in the system.
• Report on economic, social, and environmental impacts of contracts and provide debriefings to tenderers.
• Maintain client relations, share contract history when needed, and drive continuous process improvement.

Required profile

• Proven leadership experience in complex procurement or contract management.
• Strong understanding of university procurement policies, regulatory frameworks, and sustainable procurement principles.
• Ability to analyze needs, assess risk, and develop strategic contracting approaches.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, including collaboration with legal services and sustainability advisors.

Required skills