Sr. Contracts and Procurement Manager

Location: Houston/ Hybrid

Job Summary:

As a Sr Contracts and Procurement Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the procurement, contracting, and supply chain operations related to the development and construction of solar energy projects. You will play a critical role in sourcing, negotiating, contracting, and managing the procurement of solar equipment and materials, ensuring that projects are developed and then executed efficiently and cost-effectively. This position requires strong negotiation skills, strong contract drafting skills, technical knowledge of solar technologies, and a deep understanding of procurement.

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 contraction 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.

Requirements

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

• 8+ years experience preferred in solar procurement.
• Proven 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.
• Adept knowledge of procurement fundamentals.
• Strong 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.
• 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

Send resume to: Stan Marts, smarts@desgp.com