Assistant Director, UAW Purchasing Department
The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace, and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) is a 400,000-member-strong, progressive, militant union with one of the largest and most diverse memberships in North America. Our members work in a range of workplaces, from multinational corporations to small manufacturers, and state and local governments to colleges and universities, hospitals, and private non-profit organizations.
The UAW is seeking an Assistant Director for their Purchasing Department. This role involves assisting the Director in managing the department's processes and procedures. This work oversees purchasing operations for Solidarity House and the Regions, ensuring compliance with purchasing-related policies and managing the Warehouse and Mail processes and procedures. The Assistant Director will liaise with various departments to address all needs. This position reports to the Director of Purchasing. Candidates must have high integrity and the ability to work independently and collaboratively with a diverse team.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Become an expert at understanding all purchasing-related policies, such as the procurement policy, which includes the vendor due diligence and the vendor selection components, along with the Department P-Card and Fixed Asset policies.
- Assist in managing the vendor due diligence review process, which includes reviewing and approving vendors submitted to the vendor system following purchasing-related vendor policies.
- Communicate effectively by phone and email with all Regions/Departments.
- Assist in managing the vendor selection review and approval process, which includes reviewing RFQs and RFPs in accordance with purchasing-related vendor policies.
- Assist the warehouse team in managing inventory and order requests from locals via LUIS and Departments/Regions.
- Develop and lead trainings for all staff and clerical staff within regions and departments on all purchasing-related policies.
- Manage the staff and secretarial team daily to ensure that purchasing requests received are handled.
- Establish and manage vendor relationships, including negotiating contracts.
- Troubleshoot issues related to Purchasing Office, Mailroom, and Warehouse operations.
- Ensure compliance with vendor-related policies and procedures, with a focus on mitigating risks and conflicts of interest for the union.
- Prepare and present regular reports on purchasing performance and metrics.
- Facilitate communication between departments to streamline processes and resolve issues.
- Supervise and mentor purchasing team staff, fostering a team-oriented, high-performance environment.
- Assist in the strategic planning of the department.
- Lead all work for the yearly auditing process of purchasing-related policies.
- Assist in the work of major conferences, conventions, and events requiring the Purchasing Dept’s role.
Knowledge, Experience, and Skills
- Ability to multi-task, organize, and prioritize to meet deadlines.
- Must align with UAW principles and policies, maintaining a high level of integrity and ethical transparency.
- Ability to handle and manage large projects.
- Proven experience developing, facilitating and leading trainings.
- Previous experience in purchasing, finance, related work desired, and or experience with similar work.
- At least two to three years of leadership experience. Experience directly supervising a team or others desired.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Office 365.
- Ability to problem solve, identify challenges, and develop solutions independently.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills required.
- Ability to remain calm in stressful situations.
- Flexible and open to change.
- Ability to analyze financial data on vendor spending.
- Comfortable and can learn multiple internal systems.
- Ability to manage, direct, and motivate support staff respectfully and positively.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to present detailed information effectively.
- Proficient with data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
- Be able to effectively liaise with departmental staff, Regions, and local union leaders.
- Ability to work independently and manage time and priorities is a necessity.
- Flexibility to work long hours, including nights and weekends.
Successful candidates will exhibit experienced leadership, discerning judgment, and exemplary people skills. The ideal applicant is a team player who can collaborate with an enthusiastic staff and a self-driven individual versed in time and task management. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Note: This job description is intended to provide a general overview of the position. It is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, qualifications, or requirements associated with the role.
Salary and Benefits
This is a full time, exempt position based in Detroit, Michigan. The UAW offers a competitive salary along with best-in-class health, retirement, and paid time off benefits. Relocation may be available.
How to Apply
To be considered for this position, please provide the following:
· Applicants must submit a resume, a letter of interest (cover letter) to: [email protected].
· Your letter of interest should clearly explain how your experience and training make you a good fit for this position.
The UAW is dedicated to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment. We believe that our collective strength is amplified when all voices are represented. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
About Us
- The International Union, United Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America (UAW) is a 400,000-member-strong, progressive, fighting union with one of the largest and most diverse memberships in North America. Our members are employed in a range of workplaces, from multinational corporations to small manufacturers, state and local governments, colleges and universities, hospitals, and private non-profit organizations.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $151,501.86 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Relocation assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
