Inkinen Executive Search Hiring for Director of Contracts at Honolulu County, HI Full Time

The Director of Contracts is an experienced and visionary professional, with extensive procurement and government contract experience, a background in shipbuilding and ship repair, and strong communication skills.

This role will be accountable for, but not limited to the following responsibilities:

Procurement and Supplier Management

• Develop and execute a comprehensive procurement strategy that optimizes cost savings, supplier performance, and risk management.
• Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing vendor performance to ensure quality, cost-effectiveness, and reliability.
• Implement and enforce procurement policies, procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with regulations, standards, and ethical practices.
• Monitor market trends, industry developments, and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage in procurement.
• Assess and mitigate risks associated with the procurement function, including supply chain disruptions, compliance issues, and changing market dynamics.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives in procurement processes, systems, and policies, leveraging technology and best practices to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders to understand their procurement needs and ensure alignment with business objectives.
• Provide strategic guidance to senior management on procurement-related matters, including budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation.

Government Contracts Management

• Oversee the entire lifecycle of government contracts, from proposal development and submission to contract negotiation, execution, and closeout.
• Lead the development and submission of proposals for government contracts, working closely with cross-functional teams to ensure competitive and compliant bids.
• Negotiate contract terms, conditions, and pricing, aiming to achieve favorable terms while mitigating risks and ensuring contract performance.
• Monitor contract performance, deliverables, and financials, taking proactive measures to address issues, mitigate risks, and ensure contract compliance.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with government agencies, prime contractors, and subcontractors, serving as the primary point of contact for contract-related matters.
• Support the company’s efforts to maintain compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and contractual requirements related to government contracting, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS).
• Stay up-to-date with changes in government contracting regulations, policies, and practices, and provide guidance and training to the organization on compliance requirements.

Leadership and Team Management

• Lead and manage the contracts and purchasing departments, providing guidance, mentoring, and fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, such as legal, finance, and program management, to ensure alignment and coordination on contract-related matters.

Desired Skills/Experience:

• Bachelor of Science business administration, supply chain management, contract management, or a related field – an advanced degree or JD preferred
• 5+ years of procurement and/or contracts experience[CS1]
• Experience and knowledge of government contracts, Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR), and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) is preferred
• Extensive knowledge of procurement best practices, strategic sourcing methodologies, and contract negotiation.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing high-performing procurement teams.
• Strong business acumen, with the ability to align procurement strategies with broader business objectives and financial goals.
• Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills, with a focus on building and maintaining strategic supplier partnerships.
• Analytical mindset, with the ability to analyze complex data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate and influence stakeholders at all levels of the organization.
• Experience in leveraging technology and digital solutions to drive procurement process automation and efficiency.
• Ship repair and government contracting experience a plus
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM) or Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) are desirable
• Experience with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS)
• Relevant certifications such as Certified Federal Contracts Manager (CFCM) or Certified Professional Contracts Manager (CPCM) are desirable