The University of Massachusetts Strategic Sourcing team is pleased to announce that later this fall, we will be releasing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Executive Search Services. This important opportunity will ensure that UMass system and institutions across the Commonwealth continue to have access to the highest-quality professional search firms for recruiting exceptional campus and system leaders.
A Strategically Important Partnership
Executive search services represent one of the most strategically important partnerships we manage. These firms connect UMass and other state institutions with experts who bring deep knowledge, national reach, and a shared commitment to advancing public higher education. The new multi-year contracts resulting from this RFP will be accessible not only to all five UMass campuses but also to state universities and community colleges across Massachusetts.
This collaborative approach promotes efficiency across the higher education system, streamlining procurement while upholding rigorous quality and value standards.
Acknowledging Our Current Partners
As we prepare for this upcoming procurement cycle, we extend our sincere appreciation to the firms currently on contract. Your partnership and performance over the past several years have been marked by professionalism, responsiveness, and a thorough understanding of the culture and mission of public higher education.
Your collective efforts have led to significant outcomes, including several high-profile leadership appointments that have helped shape the future of the UMass system. Notably, these include the successful recruitment of chancellors for the Amherst and Lowell campuses, as well as numerous other senior executive, academic, and administrative leaders across our campuses and affiliates. These achievements reflect the strength of our relationships, the breadth of your networks, and the quality of your search methodologies.
Looking Ahead to the Next RFP Cycle
The upcoming RFP will build on this foundation of success. We invite both incumbent and new firms to present their expertise, innovative approaches, and strategies. The RFP is expected to be released later this fall, with a contract award anticipated by mid-spring 2026.
Proposal will be evaluated based on demonstrated experience in higher education leadership searches, commitment to inclusive search practices, and the ability to deliver exceptional candidate experiences.
How to Stay Informed
We encourage all interested firms to monitor the UMass BuyWays platform, the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Hub portal, and COMMBUYS for official postings and timeline updates.
We thank all our valued partners for your ongoing dedication, service, and collaboration. Your contributions have had a meaningful and lasting impact on the leadership and direction of the University of Massachusetts and the wider public higher education community.
Together, we look forward to continuing this important partnership and identifying the next generation of transformative leaders for the Commonwealth.