Position Summary:

Under the direction of the Data Privacy and Security Administrator, the Software Acquisition Specialist will be responsible for supporting the administration of acquisition functions related to software and digital tools.  The incumbent of this position represents the Division of Information Technology at pre-proposal conferences and evaluation committee meetings and will serve as a liaison between suppliers, purchasing personnel and other internal departments.  The Software Acquisition Specialist is responsible for ensuring that software and digital tools remain in compliance with all laws, rules and regulations related to data privacy and the protection of student and staff personal information.  The incumbent of this position performs a variety of specialized assignments and serves as a subject matter and technical expert in the acquisition of software and digital tools.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Solicits, evaluates and negotiates contracts for software applications and related digital tools utilizing an array of procurement methods, including but not limited to: Request for Proposals, invitation for bids, cooperating purchasing agreements, rider contracts, and sole source contracts that are within applicable laws and COMAR;
• Supports the contract administration, including liaising between suppliers, purchasing personnel and other departments; supports the negotiation of prices and terms of conditions, compliance with contract terms and conditions, compliance with all laws, rules and regulations related to data privacy and the protection of information, and negotiation of contract amendments, extensions, and changes;
• Leads acquisition planning meetings with schools and departments to develop strategies for implementing the most effective procurement methods for software and digital tools; advises departments on the appropriate pathways for software procurement based on the needs of the department;
• Recommends appropriate software applications and digital tools to accomplish district objectives while meeting acceptable data privacy, security and interoperability standards;
• Prepares contract documentation, vendor performance and procurement contract evaluations to ensure compliance, and analyzes cost and price data from vendors;
• Prepares and maintains accurate records and electronic documentation on all solicitations, responses, purchases, contracts, correspondence and related follow-up documentation;
• Analyzes and assists in the development, review and implementation of software procurement policies and administrative procedures, as well as workflows and processes for efficient software procurement;
• Serves as a senior technical expert in the procurement of software and digital tools for the school system;
• Represents the Division of Information Technology at pre-proposal conferences, evaluation committee meetings, and provides guidance on procurement procedures and evaluation proposals; and
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of COMAR 7-910 digital tool procurement and accessibility guidelines;
• Knowledge of COMAR rules and regulations for purchasing and established and recognized purchasing practices, procedures, methods and strategies;
• Experience in preparing bid specifications in the area of software procurement;
• Ability to research and prepare highly complex specifications, solicitations and contract documents;
• Interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact timely and effectively with senior level administration and teammates during periods of high demand and tight deadlines;
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written; including the ability to convey complex and technical subjects in a clear, concise and positive manner; and
• Ability to think strategically, conceptually and analytically to assess opportunities for improvement, identify and consider potential solutions, and make timely recommendations.

Education and/or Experience Requirements:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in business administration or a related field required.  A minimum of three (3) years of experience reflecting progressive responsibilities related to procurement and/or software acquisition required.  Previous experience in public sector procurement preferred. 

Certification:

Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB) or equivalent certification(s) preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

No direct supervisory responsibilities,

Physical Demands:

The physical demands are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, talk, hear, walk, sit, and use fingers, tools or controls. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision such as to read handwritten or typed material, the ability to adjust focus, and depth perception. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally push or lift up to 25 lbs.

Working Environment:

The work environment characteristics are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of the job.

Additional Information:

None