Contracting Policy

Policy Number:  300-007 Business and Finance

Policy Title: Contracting Policy

Responsible Officer: Chief Financial Officer Delegated to the Chief Procurement Officer

Responsible Offices:  Office of the Chief Financial Officer Delegated to the Office of Procurement and Contracting and the Office of the Controller

Effective Date: June 28, 2021

Next Review Date: June 28, 2023

Summary: The Office of Procurement and Contracts (OPC) is responsible for providing strategic sourcing guidance and ensuring due diligence in the acquisition of all goods and services for the Howard University and Howard University Hospital with a goal of obtaining the highest quality products and services at the best value. Most acquisitions of goods and services are processed via a Purchase Order as described in Policy 200-003 General Procurement and Uniform Guidance.  However, for specialized and complex acquisitions, a Contract is required to clearly document the terms, conditions, and rights of each party.  This Policy sets forth the review and approval process for all Contracts involving the expenditure of funds by the University and Hospital with the exception of Contract types listed in Section (VI) of the Policy. Related document: Contracting Process Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

Keywords: contracts, signatory, procurement, risk, exemptions, Contract Management System, CMS, agreement