Director, Business Development & Procurement

This role is responsible for leading strategic business development and procurement initiatives across USA Today Co.'s enterprise. The candidate will be based in the Washington, DC, area, but the position is mostly remote. The Director will manage vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to support growth, compliance, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Early‑Stage Scoping & Strategy
• Confirm budget, timing, and strategic requirements to support deal planning and execution.
• Participate in strategic discussions with key stakeholders.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal stakeholders and executives to support enterprise alignment.

2. Vendor Identification, Engagement & Evaluation
• Request and evaluate quotes, provide input to decision makers, and participate in vendor selection.
• Identify opportunities and risks associated with third‑party partnerships.
• Assist with vendor onboarding and support handoff into operational processes.

3. Internal Alignment & Approvals
• Navigate internal and external teams, collaborating with legal, finance, and other enterprise units to ensure alignment.
• Navigate internal deal‑routing processes and secure necessary approvals.

4. Contracting & Execution
• Negotiate and execute contracts for enterprise initiatives, strategic partnerships, and business opportunities.
• Facilitate cross‑functional collaboration to resolve issues and ensure timely execution of agreements.

5. Compliance, Governance & Ongoing Vendor Management
• Ensure compliance with internal processes, policies, financial approval protocols, legal requirements, and data protection standards.
• Perform ongoing partner management, issue resolution, and operational problem‑solving responsibilities as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Finance, Supply Chain Management, Economics, or related field; master's degree or juris doctor preferred.
• 7-10 years of experience in business development, procurement, or vendor management.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to identify opportunities and risks associated with third‑party partnerships.
• Ability to manage confidential information and navigate complex contract structures.
• Experience working with digital media, AI, marketing solutions, or technology vendors is a plus.
• Advanced knowledge of emerging technologies, digital media, and AI.
• Strong understanding of commercial contracts and associated legal terms.
• Solid organizational and project management skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite of products, Salesforce CRM, AdobeSign, and other software platforms as they become available.