MOUNT MORRIS, N.Y., July 9, 2024 —Livingston County Highway Administrative Manager Elaine Szoczei has earned the Certified Procurement Professional certification from the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP-CPP).
The distinction recognizes Szoczei as proficient in all areas of business principles and public procurement, including strategic procurement planning and organizational management. This is the only certification specifically designed to assess the skills and abilities of mid to executive-level public procurement professionals. Szoczei said a key benefit of the NIGP-CPP training is that it provides the tools and knowledge necessary to ensure the Highway Department is using taxpayer resources in the most efficient way possible.
“Achieving this national NIGP-CPP designation communicates to the taxpayer that I work to manage their tax dollars by reaching a specific level of education and experience and I am knowledgeable about government purchasing,” she explained. “Certification reflects achievement of established professional standards and a competency for those engaged in governmental purchasing, and attests to my ability to obtain maximum value for the taxpayer's dollar.”
As the Administrative Manager, Szoczei directs and supervises all procurement and contract activity for the Highway Department. Among her many roles there, she also manages the department’s accounting, personnel records, human resources, and record keeping activities. Szoczei began her career with the County in 1998 and has served 25 years as the Highway Department’s first and only Administrative Manager.
County Administrator Ian M. Coyle added, "Elaine's achievement underscores our commitment to professional development and efficient management of our public resources. Her expertise will continue benefiting our residents and contributing to the responsible management and efficient operation of our Highway Department."
The NIGP-CPP certification process involved three months of intensive study, followed by a rigorous, two-part examination. Those who successfully complete the program must recertify every three years to ensure ongoing professional development. As of May 2024, there were 1,519 active NIGP-CPP certificants nationwide.
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About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.