Christopher Howland

Christopher's journey at the University of Massachusetts began during his senior year when he joined the Procurement Department as a staff assistant. His dedication and strategic mindset propelled him to the position of Chief Procurement Officer and Senior Director of Procurement, where he now leads procurement operations for Auxiliary Enterprises, managing a budget exceeding $40 million—one of the largest for any university auxiliary organization. Under Christopher's leadership, the department has continued its tradition of excellence, forging strong partnerships with local farmers as well as top regional, and national suppliers. His commitment to quality and local sourcing has reinforced UMass’s standing as a leader in sustainable practices. Collaborating with the award-winning marketing department, Christopher plays a vital role in shaping the narrative for Auxiliary Enterprises' brands, including the highly influential UMass Dining. Storytelling is at the heart of their marketing strategy, a critical element in growing UMass Dining into one of the nation’s most admired collegiate dining programs. For eight consecutive years, UMass Dining has earned the prestigious title of Best Campus Food by the Princeton Review, a testament to its exceptional customer experience and marketing prowess. Christopher holds dual degrees from the University of Massachusetts—a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science (2003) and an MBA (2008)—demonstrating both his commitment to the institution and his deep expertise in business and operations management. His leadership and vision continue to drive the university’s procurement and dining services to new heights.