Director, Procurement

Job location is at 10240 Science Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92121 

The Salk Institute is seeking a strategic, collaborative, and innovative procurement leader to serve as Director of Procurement. This is an exciting opportunity to transform and elevate procurement operations within one of the world’s leading independent biological research institutions.

Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, the Director of Procurement will lead the Institute’s procurement, logistics, supplier management, and contracting functions while driving operational excellence, compliance, and strategic sourcing initiatives across the organization. This role partners closely with scientific, operational, and administrative leaders to deliver high-value procurement solutions that support groundbreaking scientific discovery.

The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking leader with deep expertise in procurement operations, supplier strategy, contract negotiation, and process optimization within a complex and highly regulated environment.

Who We Are

The Salk Institute is an internationally renowned research institution that values all members of our scientific community. We seek bold and interactive leaders passionate about exploring new frontiers in science. Our collaborative community embraces perspectives across discipline, professional acumen, and unique life experiences, fostering innovation, and a sense of belonging. Together, we strive to improve the wellbeing of humanity through groundbreaking research.

Founded by Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, the Institute is an independent, nonprofit research organization and architectural landmark: small by choice, intimate by nature, and fearless in the face of any challenge. Salk's vibrant community has many talented individuals from varied backgrounds, each playing a crucial role in driving our mission forward. From visionary leaders to dedicated administrators and brilliant faculty members, the Institute is united by a shared passion for scientific exploration and innovation. 

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Strategic Procurement Leadership

• Lead the Institute’s procurement strategy and operations to support organizational, scientific, and operational goals.
• Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives that improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize value across the Institute.
• Partner with executive leadership, Finance, research laboratories, and administrative departments to align procurement strategies with business needs.
• Serve as a trusted advisor on procurement-related matters, including sourcing strategies, contract structures, supplier selection, and compliance requirements.
• Establish long-term procurement goals, operational priorities, and performance metrics for the department.

Procurement & Contract Management

• Direct all procurement activities related to goods, services, capital equipment, and supplier agreements.
• Lead negotiations for complex contracts and supplier agreements, including fixed-price, cost-type, and service agreements.
• Oversee competitive bid and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes, including solicitation development, supplier evaluation, contract award, and contract administration.
• Ensure procurement activities comply with Institute policies, Uniform Guidance, FAR, DFARS, and other applicable federal and state regulations.
• Develop and maintain procurement policies, procedures, and controls that support compliance, operational effectiveness, and risk mitigation.
• Oversee supplier performance management and identify opportunities to improve service levels, pricing, and operational outcomes.
• Promote supplier initiatives and support compliance with small business subcontracting requirements.

Operational & Systems Management

• Oversee procurement operations, including shipping and receiving, logistics, supply center operations, asset management, and campus mail services.
• Partner with Finance and Information Systems teams to optimize ERP and e-procurement systems, workflows, reporting, and integrations.
• Lead modernization and continuous improvement initiatives that enhance procurement processes, automation, and user experience.
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