Welcome to this special edition of our UMass Procurement newsletter, celebrating five years of the Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST). This milestone reflects the transformative strides we have made together and the strong foundation we have built for the future. We will not only focus on UPST’s journey—its challenges, accomplishments, and growth— but also celebrate our next chapter of continuous improvement, enhanced benefits for UMass, and collaboration. Here’s to the journey ahead!
Looking Forward: A Vision for UPST’s Next Chapter
A Welcome Message from Michael Durkin
As the incoming Chief Procurement Officer, Michael Durkin reflects on UPST's journey and shares his vision for the future. Inspired by the principle that “where you stand depends on where you sit,” Michael highlights the courage, collaboration, and innovation that made UPST’s success possible. With a foundation built on improved processes, speed, and cost efficiency, he looks forward to strengthening partnerships across UMass as UPST enters its next chapter.
Farewell Message from David Cho
As he prepares to leave UMass, Chief Procurement Officer David Cho shares a heartfelt farewell, reflecting on his journey launching and leading the UPST. With gratitude for the colleagues, stakeholders, and students who have shaped his time at UMass, David expresses his confidence in the future of UPST under new leadership. Join him in looking back on five impactful years and celebrating the team’s continued commitment to serving UMass “better, faster, cheaper.”
Celebrating Five Years of Transformation: The UPST Journey
A Conversation with LeeAnn Pasquini and David Nero
"Under President Meehan’s leadership, we are challenged to look for bold ways to achieve cost savings and work more efficiently while remaining committed to transparency, being good stewards of public resources, and improving service.”
Celebrating its fifth anniversary, the UMass Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST) reflects on a journey of innovation, cost savings, and shared services that continues to shape UMass’s operational success. In a Q&A, LeeAnn Pasquini and David Nero share insights into UPST’s origins, the challenges overcome, and the vision driving future improvements. Discover how UPST’s commitment to transparency, efficiency, and continuous improvement supports UMass campuses and sets the stage for the years ahead.
Read the full Q&A on UPST’s journey and future goals.
Forging a Stronger Path: A Collaborative Journey
Since its inception in 2019, the Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST) has partnered closely with the Office of the General Counsel (OGC) to streamline contracting processes and enhance campus services. Together, they’ve implemented an evolving contract review process, delivered essential training, and collaborated on initiatives like fraud prevention protocols and vendor performance management. This enduring partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence and innovation, celebrating five years of impactful collaboration.
Learn more about how UPST and OGC are working in harmony.
Success in Action: UPST’s Transformative Achievements
In just five years, the Unified Procurement Services Team (UPST) has driven significant advancements that streamline procurement and improve services across UMass. Key achievements include the rollout of eProcurement for faster, more efficient purchasing, a refined contract process that ensures compliance and transparency, and AP automation that speeds up payment workflows. Our Bank Card Rationalization Program has optimized purchasing, while enhanced automation and customer engagement tools make it easier for departments to access support and resources. Each accomplishment underscores UPST’s commitment to efficiency, cost savings, and outstanding service across all campuses.
Join us in taking a look back at how our mission of Better, Faster, Cheaper has ensured UPST demonstrated efficiency and process improvement while ensuring the benefits trickle down to our students, employees, and local communities: