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Posted: 01-May-26
Location: Santa Ana, California
Type: Full Time
Salary: $94,531.00 - $137,069.00
Required Education:
DESCRIPTION:
The Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) invites you to join our team! We are now accepting online applications to fill the position of Senior Manager, Contracts and Operations Support Services.
WHO WE ARE:
Established in 1945, the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) provides retirement, death, disability and cost-of-living benefits to retirees of the County of Orange and certain County districts. Serving approximately 55,000 members, OCERS is governed by a ten-member Board of Retirement that is responsible for managing a $28 billion dollar fund. For more information about OCERS, please click here.
Mission:
OCERS mission is to provide secure retirement and disability benefits with the highest standards of excellence.
Vision:
OCERS vision is to be a trusted partner providing premier pension administration, distinguished by consistent, quality member experiences and prudent financial stewardship.
Values:
- Open and Transparent
- Commitment to Superior Service
- Engaged and Dedicated Workforce
- Reliable and Accurate
- Secure and Sustainable
THE OPPORTUNITY:
OCERS is seeking a Senior Manager, Contracts and Operations Support Services to provide strategic leadership and oversight of the agency’s procurement, contract management, and operational support functions. Reporting to the Deputy CEO, this senior management role manages the full contract lifecycle – from developing and issuing competitive solicitations (RFPs/RFQs) and evaluating bids, to negotiating agreements, monitoring performance, and ensuring timely close-out – all while maintaining compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies. In addition to procurement and vendor management, the Senior Manager will oversee facilities management, property and liability insurance administration, mail processing, records management, and space planning. The Senior Manager serves as a hands-on, work-producing manager while providing leadership and oversight for the team. This role is also charged with leveraging modern technology, including AI and machine learning tools, to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and achieve cost savings. As OCERS’ principal contracting authority and a key advisor to executive leadership, the Senior Manager will lead a multifunctional team, develop agency-wide procurement policies, and drive innovation to meet evolving operational needs.
PERFORMANCE ATTRIBUTES:
Performance in this role requires a combination of technical expertise and strong leadership attributes:
- Strategic Leadership: Provides direction and vision for procurement and support services; anticipates agency needs and drives improvements in contracting processes.
- Analytical Judgment: Uses critical thinking to interpret complex legal, financial, and technical information and to make sound, evidence-based decisions.
- Communication: Clearly and persuasively communicates complex information to diverse audiences, ensuring understanding and alignment across the organization.
- Integrity and Ethics: Upholds the highest standards of transparency, fairness, and accountability in contracting and office management practices.
- Collaboration and Interpersonal Skills: Forges partnerships across teams and with external stakeholders to deliver on strategic goals; guides and motivates staff; fosters a positive team environment.
- Adaptability: Remains flexible and resilient in response to changing priorities, tight deadlines, and evolving regulations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience:
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Graduation from an accredited university or college with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Finance, Contract Management, or a closely related field.
AND
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Five (5) years of progressively responsible management experience in procurement and contract management including supervisory responsibilities.
Special Notes, Licenses, or Requirements:
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A valid California class C driver’s license or the ability to arrange for timely transportation is required.
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Successful completion of a background investigation.
Highly Desirables:
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Proficiency with contract management software, ERP systems and emerging technologies (e.g., AI/ML tools).
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Designation as a Certified Professional Contract Manager (CPCM), Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM), and/or Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO).
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Experience in local government, public-sector retirement systems or a regulated environment.