As the Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST) continues to evolve and support the University of Massachusetts system’s strategic procurement goals, we’re excited to share a few updates from the Contracts and Strategic Sourcing areas that speak to both leadership continuity and our commitment to internal growth.
Following a rigorous search process for two key leadership roles, Contracts Manager and Strategic Sourcing Manager, the UPST is proud to announce that both positions were filled by outstanding internal candidates. These promotions not only highlight the strength of our internal talent pipeline but also reflect our commitment to professional development and career progression across the team.
Sue Cone has been appointed Contracts Manager, bringing with her over 17 years of experience within the UMass system. From her early days at ForHealth Consulting to her work at Chan Medical School, and most recently as a Senior Contracts Specialist with UPST, Sue has consistently demonstrated deep institutional knowledge, leadership, and a thoughtful approach to contract negotiations. As a founding member of UPST, her progression is a testament to her long-standing contributions and leadership within the organization.
With over 17 years of experience in Higher Education, Bill Mannix has stepped into the role of Strategic Sourcing Manager. Bill most recently led the Research, Medical & Scientific (RMS) and Professional Services categories as a UPST Category Manager. Prior to joining the team, Bill served as Procurement Director at Berkshire Community College for a decade, building a career rooted in higher education procurement. His structured, collaborative approach has earned the respect of colleagues and suppliers alike, and we’re excited to see him bring that same dedication to his expanded leadership role.
These transitions mark a meaningful moment for the UPST as we continue to align our team’s strengths with the broader mission of “delivering value together for UMass.”
UPST is in the final stages of recruiting for several open positions, including two Category Managers and one Senior Contracts Specialist. These roles are essential for supporting our collaboration with various departments across the UMass system. We encourage anyone interested to reach out to the hiring managers: Sara Veilleux, Sue, or Bill.