As the Senior Procurement Manager, I manage the sourcing and procurement of raw materials for a global manufacturer. I manage the hiring, staffing, and training of procurement staff, which consists of 4 Buyers. I also work with a Purchasing Supervisor and his 2 direct reports. Our team focuses heavily on mitigating risks and optimizing costs by conducting in-depth pricing analysis, monitoring material quality, and handling contract negotiations and fulfillment. My team and I also align with the engineering department to further identify cost savings and streamline purchasing activities. For example, there are times when we collaborate on the selection and approval of replacement and alternative parts that meet client quality expectations. Being in a manufacturing environment, I keep a very watchful eye on what's happening in the market as well. I monitor purchasing trends, metrics, and performance to ensure service levels get met as we continue navigating supply fluctuations during the pandemic. This at times also means sourcing components for our suppliers as a means of maintaining Hughes' production levels without interruption.

As Staff Commodity Manager, I forecasted, strategized, and sourced parts from national and global suppliers. We primarily used an established supplier base, which included Intel, Broadcom, Nvidia, and Foxconn Technology, in addition to the spot market to fill unexpected supply gaps. Within management, I negotiated contracts, initiated purchase orders, monitored market conditions/trends, and identified cost-saving initiatives. For example, we conducted make-versus-buy financial breakdowns to determine if producing materials in-house would be optimal for cost savings. My role also involved working with R&D during product line conceptualization and development. At times, I resolved material quality, availability, and price issues with suppliers as the key point-of-contact for the company's large supplier accounts.

As Senior Buyer, I sourced indirect components for R&D, overseeing complete RFI, RFQ, and RFP processes. The sourcing of components involved the management of contract agreements and fulfillment. I managed incoming purchase requisitions from Seagate employees, researching and selecting national and international suppliers that provided optimal pricing, product quality, and shipping/delivery points. In addition to my buying role, I served as Purchasing Card Manager (PCM), charged with outlining approved purchases for engineers and administrators.

As Senior Buyer, I managed the buying lifecycle associated with the acquisition of ingredients, print/labeling services, and packaging for consumer products businesses (clients). I supported manufacturing and warehouse management that provided finished goods to various distribution centers. I was involved with sourcing and vetting potential suppliers in search of competitive bids (RFIs & RFQs) with specific product spec and availability requirements. I planned and managed optimal inventory levels that supported major clients in the health and wellness industry.

As Sourcing Manager, I sourced airline catering items for a major airline client, Virgin Atlantic. We primarily utilized local and national suppliers, yet prior to 2016, we had broadened our scope to include bidding from overseas suppliers as a means to remain financially competitive. I oversaw the complete bidding process with suppliers, however, I networked with chefs, quality control, and logistics staff involved throughout the entire supply chain process as well. We were successful at reducing acquisition costs by six-figures annually, which was accomplished in part by negotiating set contracts and terms that secured the best pricing for the company.

As Buyer, I purchased approx. $20M worth of gourmet products for this importer, wholesaler, and distributor that consisted of 3 multi-state locations. The purchasing and procurement team supported several large retail customers, including TJ Maxx, Whole Foods, Balducci's, and Ukrups. We sourced and secured hard-to-find items for clients, focusing on Italy, Spain, and France for a bulk of the company's imports.

As Kitchen Manager, I managed a high-volume restaurant with upwards of 18 kitchen personnel. this involved managing the financials, purchasing, and staffing for the business, which provided dining and catering for large parties and business functions within the restaurant.