Oliver Inc. is one of the largest independent packaging providers with focus on sustainable, high-quality packaging solutions and and a white glove customer service approach. Oliver's varied capabilities include offset, flexographic and digital printing, specialized coatings, cold foil, hot foil stamping, bindery, and folding carton converting.

Marietta (now a Division of KIK Custom Products) is a manufacturer of customized personal care products. As Buyer/Planner Team Lead, I supervised a team of 4 buyer/planners responsible for commodities such as printed packaging, plastics, chemicals and resale goods. I built customer confidence, took responsibility for solving customer problems and provided leadership and motivation. It was my responsibility to negotiate pricing, vendor contracts and terms.

As buyer/planner, I controlled the purchasing process of printed packaging components to ensure accurate inventory levels and that products were delivered on time, according to specs and within the best possible budget. I worked across different departments, and in conjunction with vendors and customers, to reduce inventory, achieve cost savings and reduce waste. My commitment to continuous improvement led me to write Standard Operating Procedures and train peers within the organization in their implementation and usage.

Advised on sustainability best practices in the packaging industry, as well as environmental impact, performance, availability and cost of packaging materials. I conducted an environmental paper study, comparing certified virgin with recycled content paperboard stocks. Furthermore, I was engaged in assessing, negotiating and implementing business procedures between Tri-Plex and their Chinese partner, pertaining to QA staffing needs, invoicing procedures and contracts.

During my time as Tri-Plex Packaging's Global Sourcing Manager, I managed the production of complex packaging projects, from design to sourcing, fulfillment and logistics. I acted as the liaison between the representative office in Shanghai, China and headquarters in New York City. I travelled extensively throughout China building the companies print and packaging supplier network and hired QC personal for the China office. I led the company to engage in sustainable packaging practices. As part of this effort, I implemented impact reduction strategies, buying policies and partnered with industry working groups like the Sustainable Packaging Coalition.

Researched and composed Diploma Thesis

As an intern at MAN Roland Druckmaschinen AG, I planned and organized customer events and initiated marketing activities in Asia. On a day to day basis, I calculated costs for customer orders and corresponded with worldwide regional offices. I also assisted directors and managers with international client visits during machine demonstrations and marketing events.

While studying in China, I spent one semester at the Shaanxi Province Printing House. I assisted in the prepress, press and post-press department, scanned and worked on originals for further processing and translated and explained error messages on German printing presses into Mandarin.