The Business Office serves as the central resource for the College’s decentralized purchasing system. We configure purchasing policies and procedures; provide procurement tools to support the purchase of goods and services that secure the best value for the College and ensure that College purchasing complies with applicable IRS and industry standards.
Carleton College is a member of many Purchasing Cooperatives. Cooperative purchasing supports lower prices, reduces administrative time associated with product sourcing, and secures more favorable terms & conditions. Departments are encouraged to seek information on products and services from the suppliers in these Purchasing Cooperatives as their first source for products and services.
Upcoming Purchasing & and Contract Management Updates
As the Business Office team continues to prepare for Randie Johnson, purchasing and risk manager, to retire, here are some reminders for seeking purchasing and contract management support. While department budgets may be robust, there are institutional authorizations required for purchase orders and contracts that require additional time and attention. Effective July 1, please be prepared to reach out to members of the purchasing team: Nick Sahli, purchasing manager, Kara Lloyd, associate comptroller and Linda Thornton, comptroller, for additional guidance and support.
- Departments planning for purchase orders or contracts of $10,000 or more to contact the Budget Office as you begin to prepare for your purchase. This will ensure sufficient time to understand your needs, review resources, and use new technology like Cobrief (AI-supported review of contract terms and conditions) to ensure it achieves the best outcome for Carleton. Workday resources will also continue to be enhanced to support ongoing work together.
- Please plan for contract reviews to take 1–2 weeks, depending on the complexity of terms and conditions and modifications that may be needed to address thoroughness and compliance.
Your understanding and cooperation are appreciated as the Business Office navigates this transition!
Business Office Contact Information:
Nick Sahli
Purchasing Manager
nshali@carleton.edu
507-222-5509
Kara Lloyd
Associate Comptroller
klloyd@carleton.edu
507-222-5934