Contracts and Procurement Manager - Attorney

National Forest Foundation (NFF) is excited to announce an opportunity for a regular, full-time, and exempt position that will oversee the NFF’s service contracts, procurement, and related activities. This role will encompass legal oversight and management of the NFF’s service contracts, purchases, and other similar actions to advance the organization’s conservation investments nationwide.

About the NFF: The National Forest Foundation inspires all people to embrace and protect our awe-inspiring natural world. In cooperation with hundreds of partners, we lead natural solutions that restore the health of our people and planet.

Position Function: The Contracts & Procurement Manager - Attorney will report directly to the Conservation Awards Director and work closely with Conservation Awards staff, program staff, and accounting teams to oversee the organization’s procurement of services and goods. This role is pivotal in overseeing the organization’s procurement of services and goods while ensuring all contracts are legally sound, compliant with laws and regulations, and supportive of strategic initiatives and conservation efforts.

Position Duties and Responsibilities: The Contracts and Procurement Manager is responsible for:

• Oversee the implementation of the organization’s procurement policy and ensure legal and compliance requirements are met.
• Coordinate with staff seeking to engage in procurement actions and provide advice throughout the procurement process.
• Provide dynamic, engaged leadership of contracts and procurement team.
• Lead advancement of organizational priorities to diversify vendor base and increase the proportion vendor from disadvantaged communities or with recognized disadvantaged/underserved designations ensuring legal compliance and support.
• Solicit and coordinate bids for large projects offering legal scrutiny and advice on potential transactions.
• Practice active risk management in contracts and procurement to reduce organizational exposure.
• Lead staff teams to review bids and select vendors, and award contracts based on price, quality, performance considerations, and other factors.
• Facilitate the development and negotiation of agreements, ensuring legal and organizational standards are upheld.
• Provide substantive review of agreements for legal compliance and accuracy, resolving discrepancies consistent with organizational requirements.
• Review and update standard contract templates to reflect best practices and organizational changes.
• Work with other departments within the organization to ensure that contracts are effective and sound and make recommendations for improvement where necessary.
• Conduct occasional reviews to ensure vendor compliance with contract terms, from both procurement and legal perspectives. 
• Oversee review and approval of invoices from vendors to ensure that they accurately reflect services rendered or goods delivered and compliant with all requirements.
• Oversee training for all staff on procurement, contracts, and purchasing.
• Conduct legal and policy research and make recommendations for matters relating to conservation awards matters and natural resource issues. 

Travel: This position requires occasional domestic travel to attend meetings, trainings, convenings, and related events. The travel estimate for this position is up to 5% per year.

Location: The location for this position is flexible throughout the US. This position is a remote/work from home position and requires reliable internet access and a dedicated workspace.

Compensation: The NFF offers competitive compensation and benefits and has recently implemented a new compensation program as part of our commitment to transparency. The salary range for this position is $79,149 to $111,600 and may be eligible for locality adjustment. Please note that the indicated salary range describes the full range for an incumbent in this position. Most new staff generally start at the 35th percentile of the range percentile to ensure internal salary equity.  

Related Positions: This position is advertised concurrently with a posting for a Contracts and Procurement Manager. Please note that only one of these positions will be filled based on the qualifications and experience of the applicants. We encourage applicants to apply if they meet the criteria for either role.

To Apply: Applicants must include both a cover letter and resume. Incomplete packages will not be considered. Position is open until May 30th, 2024. Please visit our careers site to apply online. 

The National Forest Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes a diverse pool of candidates in this search. For more information about the National Forest Foundation, visit the website at: www.nationalforests.org.

Education and Qualifications: NFF expects the Contracts and Procurement Manager to possess the following educational and experiential qualifications:

• A Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school
• A minimum of three years of experience in contract law, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience in contracts, procurement and/or natural resource law.
• Professional certification in contracting or procurement is preferred but not required; additional qualifications in environmental or natural resources matters are advantageous.
• A demonstrated commitment to the mission of the NFF and a deep understanding of National Forest management or other natural resource issues. 
• Candidates should possess a blend of legal expertise and practical experience in contracting, procurement, bid evaluation/review, and contract preparation.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States. 

Abilities and Skills: NFF expects the Contracts and Procurement Manager to possess:

• Robust legal acumen, particularly in contract law, coupled with a comprehensive understanding of procurement processes.
• A growth mindset, rampant curiosity, and a passion for problem-solving within a legal framework.
• Deep knowledge of contracting and procurement using federal and non-federal funds, with the ability to navigate and apply 2 CFR 200, FAR, and other related regulations effectively.
• Strong analytical skills and meticulous attention to detail, essential for the review and development of legally sound contracts.
• Meaningful experience in interpreting complex legal provisions and translating them into clear, actionable guidance for non-legal staff.
• Demonstrated proficiency in common office procedures and software, including Microsoft 365 and Office Suite, with an emphasis on legal document preparation and review. Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics systems is considered a plus.
• A proven track record of successful negotiations and dispute resolutions, reflecting strong interpersonal and communication skills.