Introduction to Harvard

Harvard University is a private Ivy League institution that includes Harvard College, 12 graduate schools, several research institutes, and museums, along with many supporting administrative departments, each managed individually. The University’s size means that it wields significant buying power for goods and services. 

In Harvard’s decentralized purchasing environment, buying responsibilities are distributed across the University. Strategic Procurement provides central oversight of sourcing, contracting, accounts payable, supplier onboarding, and management of the Harvard Buy-to-Pay (B2P) eProcurement system utilized by the University and its suppliers.

Strategic Procurement negotiates and establishes supplier partnerships through multiple processes, which may include a request for quote or an extensive, formal RFP (request for proposal). We may invite suppliers to participate in these strategic initiatives, either directly or through relationships with existing suppliers.

In addition to Strategic Procurement, many employees are in charge of buying goods and services for their school or unit. The University expects these employees to make responsible procurement decisions consistent with Harvard’s best interests and to display fairness and integrity in the acquisition process. Likewise, Harvard expects its suppliers to support the Harvard community by promoting honest, ethical, and legal trade practices; meeting and/or exceeding all regulatory requirements; complying with all contracting and PO (purchase order) requirements; and providing superior quality products and services at the lowest total cost.