Contracts and Procurement Manager - DES Growth Partners, Inc.

Contracts and Procurement Manager

Location: Houston / Hybrid

Our client is seeking a Contracts and Procurement Manager to play a critical role in managing the procurement, contracting, and supply chain operations related to the development and construction of solar energy projects. You will be responsible for sourcing, negotiating, contracting, and managing the procurement of solar equipment and materials, ensuring that projects are developed and executed efficiently and cost-effectively.

Responsibilities:

• Identify, prescreen, and evaluate potential suppliers of solar equipment, including solar panels, inverters, mounting systems, and related materials.

• Identify, prescreen, and evaluate potential suppliers of Engineer, Procure, and Construct (EPC) services for solar balance of system, substations, switchyards, and transmission and distribution lines.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key suppliers to ensure a reliable supply chain.
• Lead the sourcing process from RFI to contracting execution.
• Negotiate favorable terms and contracts with suppliers, including pricing, delivery schedules, and quality standards.
• Analyze and manage the cost structure of solar projects, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and optimization.
• Monitor market trends and pricing fluctuations in the solar industry.
• Develop and implement strategies to minimize procurement costs while maintaining quality.
• Implement quality control measures and protocols for incoming materials and equipment.
• Resolve any quality issues with suppliers and work to continuously improve product quality.
• Optimize the supply chain to reduce lead times and streamline the procurement process.
• Ensure that all procurement activities comply with relevant laws and regulations, such as environmental standards and import/export requirements.
• Stay up-to-date with industry regulations and certification requirements.
• Prepare RFPs, coordinate bid schedules, and evaluate vendor proposals to determine cost-competitive pricing and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Manage and administer contracts, including contract administration, change management, and dispute resolution.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain management, business, engineering, or a related field. A masters degree or relevant certification is a plus.

• 5+ years of experience in procurement, supply chain management, or a related role, with a focus on solar energy projects.
• In-depth knowledge of solar technologies, equipment, and industry trends.
• Knowledge of procurement fundamentals.
• Knowledge of Contract drafting principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Familiarity with project management principles and software including Procore.
• Positive, proactive approach to enhancing procurement methods and company practices.
• Detailed oriented with strong accuracy skills.
• Demonstrates ability to take initiative and work independently within a team environment.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills with proven ability to meet deadlines in a hybrid/remote working environment.
• Previous experience using an ERP system, experience with Procore or similar software is a plus.
• Proven track record of contract negotiations.
• Track record in renewable energy - preferably solar EPC.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication skills (both written and oral).
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills with a proven ability to create and maintain positive working relationships with vendors, suppliers, shippers, and customers
• Strong ethical code of conduct
• Advanced working knowledge in all Microsoft Office applications, specifically Excel, Word and Outlook