Job Title: Chief Procurement Officer
Department/Agency: Procurement Office (CPO)
Closing Date: December 13, 2024
Type of Position: Political Appointee
Posting Type: Employment Opportunity/Open to the Public
Pay Grade and Salary Range: GS-18/$65,000 - $85,000 p.a.
Email Your Resume, Cover Letter and References to: OfficeGovElectASG@gmail.com
Your Resume - Attach your updated resume in either a txt, Word document, or PDF format. Confirm the subject line includes the position you are applying for.
Submit a Cover Letter and Headshot - Include a personalized cover letter explaining your interest and qualifications for the role. Be sure to include a recent headshot photo.
Provide Professional References - Send a list of at least three professional references. Include their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. You are welcome to include letters of reference if available.
General Description
The Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) is the principal executive responsible for overseeing all procurement activities within the American Samoa Government (ASG). This includes ensuring the effective and transparent acquisition of goods, services, and construction projects that support the government's mission and strategic objectives. The CPO will develop and implement procurement policies, ensure compliance with local laws and regulations, and manage a team to ensure procurement processes are fair, competitive, and efficient. The role requires strong leadership, strategic vision, and comprehensive knowledge of public procurement laws and practices.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Procurement Strategy & Policy Development:
Formulate, review, and implement comprehensive procurement policies, procedures, and guidelines that ensure compliance with the Procurement Act of 1983 and other relevant regulations.
Develop procurement strategies aligned with the goals of the ASG, considering cost-effectiveness, transparency, and efficiency in all procurement operations.
Management & Supervision of Procurement Operations:
Oversee the full procurement process for all government departments, from planning and sourcing to contract negotiation and execution.
Ensure procurement methods (including competitive bidding, negotiations, and sole sourcing) are properly applied and transparent, following established guidelines, policies, and timelines.
Manage procurement teams across various government agencies, providing guidance and performance evaluations to ensure team effectiveness and compliance with federal and local procurement laws, regulations, and policies.
Contract Oversight & Vendor Management:
Lead the drafting, negotiation, and administration of contracts, ensuring all legal requirements are met and government interests are protected.
Establish and maintain positive working relationships with contractors, vendors, and suppliers, ensuring that agreements are fulfilled as per contract terms.
Monitor contract performance, resolve disputes, and take corrective actions as necessary.
Compliance & Risk Management:
Ensure all procurement activities adhere to relevant local, federal, and international laws, ethical standards, and best practices.
Identify and mitigate procurement risks, ensuring that the procurement process is transparent, equitable, and free from conflicts of interest.
Develop internal controls to prevent fraud, waste, and abuse in the procurement process.
Budgeting & Financial Oversight:
Collaborate with the Department of Treasury and other financial officers to ensure that procurement operations remain within budget and that the procurement budget is efficiently managed.
Assist in the development of budget forecasts for procurement needs across all government sectors.
Reporting & Documentation:
Maintain thorough records of procurement activities, including contracts, bid documents, and evaluation reports, ensuring compliance with public access and accountability standards.
Provide regular reports on procurement performance, contract management, and compliance to the Governor and other key stakeholders.
Training & Capacity Building:
Lead training and capacity-building programs for procurement staff to enhance their skills, knowledge, and understanding of procurement laws and practices.
Foster an environment of continuous improvement within the procurement office, ensuring staff are kept up-to-date with industry trends and regulatory changes.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement:
Engage with the public and other stakeholders to promote transparency in procurement and explain procurement processes where necessary.
Serve as the primary point of contact for inquiries or concerns related to government procurement activities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
In-depth understanding of public procurement law and regulatory frameworks, including the Procurement Act of 1983 and other applicable legislation.
Familiarity with ASG financial and budgeting processes, including government reporting requirements.
Knowledge of the economic and business environment in American Samoa, including local suppliers, contractors, and market conditions.
Excellent negotiation and contract management skills.
Strong leadership and team-building abilities, with the capacity to mentor, motivate, and manage procurement professionals.
Proficiency in procurement software, data analysis, and any software tools applicable and relevant for procurement operations.
Effective oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex procurement concepts to diverse audiences.
Ability to develop and execute strategic procurement plans in a dynamic and diverse environment.
Strong decision-making and problem-solving abilities, particularly in high-pressure or complex procurement situations.
Ability to manage multiple, concurrent procurement projects while meeting deadlines and budget requirements.
Academic and Experience Requirements
Education:
A Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Supply Chain Management, Law, or a related field is required.
A Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Public Administration, Business Administration, Procurement Management) is preferred.
Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in procurement management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role overseeing complex procurement processes.
Experience with government procurement policies, including experience with federal, state, or local government contracts, is highly desirable.
Proven track record in leading large-scale procurement projects and managing cross-functional teams.
Certifications:
Professional certifications such as Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO), or equivalent are highly preferred.
Salary
The salary is competitive and based on experience and qualifications. Specific compensation details will be provided upon request.
Additional Information
For questions regarding the position or application process, please contact the Office of the Governor-Elect directly via email at officegovelectASG@gmail.com
*The American Samoa Government is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified candidates will be considered for political appointments without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal and territorial laws. Appointments will be made based on qualifications, experience, and the ability to serve effectively in alignment with the policies and goals of the administration.
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