APRIL D. WARD
Kingsport,Tennessee
Summary
Results-driven professional with an MBA and a Bachelor\'s degree in Retail and Consumer Science, offering over 15 years of experience in global supply chain and logistics management. Highly organized and self-motivated, with a proven track record of success. Skilled in managing cross-functional teams and key projects, while effectively collaborating with vendors and customers. Possesses excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills, along with an exemplary work ethic. SPSM certified in Logistics/Transportation Contract Management, Materials Planning, Reporting, Supply Chain Management, Vendor Management, Customer Relations, and SAP Systems.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
United States Acetate Manager
Solvay, INC.
01.2005 - 01.2018
- Managed Solvay Acetow's Kingsport Site raw material supply and global logistical needs
- Organization and optimization of the supply chain supporting a joint venture
- Production schedule planning and implementation
- Managed sales orders, entitlement, and shipping schedules
- Organized wood pulp ordering, delivery, storage, and adequate inventory
- Overseeing of purchasing in warehouse operations in other countries
- Monitored and audited performance of different delivery process steps, plant forwarder, and truckers
- Negotiation of contracts for global logistics services and optimization of logistical costs
- Managed relationships and services provided by the joint venture to all Solvay tow sites and any third party sales
- Maintained constant communication with clients including Plant Site Logistics/Transportation Managers, Procurement Managers, and Customer Service Representatives
- Experience in domestic and international logistical supply including international shipment of ISO containers, domestic trucking, and domestic railcar supply
- Ability to work with people of different cultures located around the globe
- Successfully implemented Solvay's legacy system to SAP with no disruptions to service, shipments or inventory
Supplier Operations Representative
CENDIAN CHEMICAL LOGISTICS
01.2001 - 01.2005
- Managed and facilitated transportation projects for key client Eastman Chemical Company as well as for three other chemical manufacturers (Albemarle, General Chemical, and Safety Kleen)
- Coordinated both domestic and international shipments involving Bulk Truck, Rail, Marine, and LTL suppliers
- Resolved problems, planned contingencies such as alternate routes, and conducted root cause failure analysis
- Produced monthly and quarterly reports for management analyzing and summarizing supplier performance
- Managed two critical rail maintenance projects involving one-week shutdown of CSX and NS rail lines; led internal team of 15-25 to plan for these events and ensure no disruption in deliveries
- Successfully led key project to transition Eastman Chemical coal unloading from four different points to one central unloading facility, working with the rail companies, plant operations, procurement, and management
Education
Master of Business Administration - Business Administration And Management
EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
Johnson City, TennesseeBachelor of Science - Retail & Consumer Science
UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE
Knoxville, TennesseeSkills
- Team Leadership
- Time Management
- Verbal and written communication
- Complex Problem-Solving
- Strategic Planning
- Operations Management
- Project Management
- Cross-Functional Teamwork
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM)
- Performance Management
- Schedule Preparation
- Negotiation
- Key Performance Indicators
- Contract Management
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Decision-Making
- Computer Skills
- Effective Communication
- Attention to Detail
- Multitasking
Timeline
United States Acetate Manager
Solvay, INC.
01.2005 - 01.2018
Supplier Operations Representative
CENDIAN CHEMICAL LOGISTICS
01.2001 - 01.2005
Master of Business Administration - Business Administration And Management
EAST TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY
Bachelor of Science - Retail & Consumer Science
UNIVERSITY OF TENNESSEE