Director, Third-Party Risk Management and Procurement

JOB SUMMARY

The Director of Third-Party Risk Management and Procurement will lead and oversee the organization's third-party risk management program and procurement functions. This role is responsible for identifying, assessing, mitigating, and monitoring risks associated with third-party vendors and suppliers while optimizing procurement strategies to drive value and efficiency. The Director will collaborate cross-functionally with internal stakeholders to ensure alignment with organizational goals, compliance standards, and best practices.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

•Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive third-party risk management framework.

•Lead due diligence and ongoing monitoring processes, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies

•Oversee the procurement function, ensuring alignment with the organization's strategic goals and operational needs.

•Identify and assess risks related to third-party vendors, including financial, operational, legal, compliance, cybersecurity, and reputational risks.

•Establish and monitor vendor risk assessment criteria, ensuring consistent evaluation of new and existing vendors.

•Work closely with legal, compliance, and IT teams to address risk-related issues, negotiate contracts, and ensure proper risk mitigation strategies.

•Develop and present risk reports to senior leadership, highlighting key trends, potential risks, and recommended actions.

•Develop and execute procurement strategies to achieve cost savings, enhance supplier relationships, and improve supply chain efficiency.

•Lead negotiations with vendors and suppliers to secure favorable terms, pricing, and service agreements.

•Implement and monitor procurement policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with internal standards and industry regulations.

•Drive the adoption of technology and data-driven approaches to streamline procurement processes and improve decision-making.

•Collaborate with internal departments to forecast procurement needs and align sourcing strategies.

•Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of procurement and risk management professionals.

•Foster a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration across the team.

•Provide training and development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

REQUIRED

•8+ years of experience in third-party risk management, procurement, or related fields, with at least 3 years in a leadership role. Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Risk Management, or a related field. Strong knowledge of third-party risk management frameworks, procurement best practices, and applicable regulations. Proven experience in contract negotiation, vendor management, and risk assessment. Proficiency in procurement and risk management tools and technologies. Demonstrated success and a proven track record in professional/life experience in specific job functions, projects, or industries, and military service can substitute for the formal education requirements. 

PREFERRED

•Advanced degree (MBA or similar) preferred.

•Professional Certifications such as Certified Professional Supply Management (CPSM)

KEY COMPETENCIES

•Demonstrates critical Transformation and Leadership skills and abilities: True Collaboration; Focusing on Outcomes: Owning and effectively solving problems for today and the future; Empathetic Leadership; Adaptability and Resilience; Emotional Intelligence/CEM skills and Continuous Development/Continuous Improvement Mindsets

•Proficiency in procurement and risk management tools and technologies.

•Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all organizational levels.

•Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

•Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all organizational levels.

CORE VALUES

Step Up For Students believes strongly in two key core values to carry out their mission of “We empower families to pursue and engage in the most appropriate learning options for their children.”:

•Everyone is an asset.

•Every event is an improvement opportunity.

To maintain a positive and effective organizational culture, employees are expected to demonstrate these two core values in their everyday work.

WORKING CONDITIONS/EQUIPMENT USE

•Work is performed indoors in a typical office environment - not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions.

•Valid driver license with proof of insurance.

•Must be able to lift up to fifteen (15) pounds.

•Frequent use of office machines to include telephone, computer, and printer.