Director, Procurement - Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) : Job Details

HHMI is focused on supporting and moving science forward in a variety of different ways ranging from conducting basic biomedical research, empowering educators, inspiring students, developing the next generation of scientists – even stretching into film and media production. Our Headquarters is in the greater Washington, DC metro area and is home to over 300 employees with expertise in investments , communications, digital production, biomedical sciences, and everything in between. The work housed here supports and augments the groundbreaking research conducted in HHMI labs across the nation. As HHMI scientists continue to push boundaries in laboratories and classrooms, you can be sure that your contributions while working here are making a difference.

Summary:

HHMI's procurement function is critical in advancing the Institute's scientific and operational mission. Supported by a multidisciplinary team, the Director of Procurement leads lab purchase support; contract, supplier and catalogue management; and data analytics and reporting. This role requires a collaborative, technically proficient leader skilled in procurement practices, compliance, guiding change, and building effective relationships, processes, and teams.

This role reports to the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer . This role follows a hybrid work arrangement of a minimum of 3 days in person and splits their time between our Headquarters in C h evy Chase, Maryland and Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia. The person in this role will need to be flexible in scheduling to work beyond traditional work hours and come in more occasionally when required .

What we provide:

The opportunity to build out the procurement strategy and roadmap for the organization .

Opportunities to use your talents toward the critical work of HHMI's mission by directly supporting the scientific work.

A competitive compensation package that includes a 10% employer contribution to your retirement, up to $10,000 in educational reimbursement each year, and a considerable budget for professional development and maintaining certifications .

What you'll do:

Strategic Leadership & Compliance

Develop and implement procurement strategies that align with institutional goals in research and operations .

Collaborate with Finance on strategic planning, budgeting, and resource optimization.

Stay current on market trends, regulatory requirements, and supply chain risks to ensure agility and resilience.

Ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations; lead continuous improvement and adoption of best practices.

Oversee distributed procurement environment , delivering responsive and consistent service across the Institute.

Guide complex purchasing decisions for capital equipment and contracted services.

Lead vendor selection, contract negotiations, and performance management using KPIs , analytics , and strong problem-solving skills .

Prepare and present data-driven materials for vendor reviews and procurement decision-making.

Technology & Process Innovation

Advance procurement technology to automate workflows, enhance transparency, and improve data accuracy.

Implement and optimize digital tools and platforms to streamline processes and elevate the user experience.

Leverage AI capabilities to drive operational efficiency, promote self-service, and support informed decision-making.

Team Development & Stakeholder Engagement

Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing, service-focused procurement team.

Foster a culture of accountability, professional growth, inclusion, and adaptability.

Serve as a visible, trusted leader across the Institute, cultivating strong relationships and collaboration.

Educate and empower end users through clear policies, training, and communication.

What you bring:

Bachelor's degree required ; C.P.M., CPSM, or equivalent certification highly preferred.

12+ years of progressive procurement experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role within research, academic, or nonprofit settings.

Deep expertise in both scientific and operational procurement, including lab equipment and technology.

Proven success in distributed procurement environments, balancing local flexibility with institutional consistency.

Strong track record in vendor negotiations, strategic sourcing, customer support, and supplier relationship management. Hands-on experience with ERP and procurement systems (Workday, Ariba, Concur, Apex A nalytix ) and reporting tools (Tableau).

Demonstrated ability to lead system implementations and drive user adoption through thoughtful change management and training.

Solid understanding of compliance and regulatory frameworks, with a collaborative and adaptive approach.

Service-oriented mindset with a strong commitment to supporting research and operational excellence.

Ethical and trustworthy, with sound judgment and high standards of integrity.

Adaptive and resilient in navigating change and uncertainty; maintains a forward-thinking perspective.

Strong interpersonal, listening, and communication skills; dependable team player who fosters collaboration.

Application Instructions:

During the application process, please submit a cover letter stating how your qualifications and experience match the requirements and how your experience will support HHMI in its mission.

Physical Requirements:

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act . # LI-EG1

Compensation Range

Pay Type:

Annual

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal equity when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity EmployerWe use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because we believe in the power of individuals to make breakthroughs over time.

Why HHMI

To move science forward we need a diverse collection of talents, expertise, and backgrounds in scientific research and science education, as well as communications, finance, human resources, information technology, investments, law, and operations.

At HHMI, we encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment where employees can do their best work.

What makes us strong is the diversity of our perspectives. We work to promote a culture of inclusion in our work environments and across the greater scientific community. To find more information about us and the steps we're taking to make HHMI a more inclusive organization, visit our About Us page.

Your best option for consideration in our career opportunities is to apply directly via our HHMI Careers site . There, you will learn more about HHMI and can find information about our available roles.

Contact us at recruitingsupport @hhmi.org if you require an accommodation related to completing the job application. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.