Barbra Jackson
Nashville,TN
Summary
Seasoned operations and purchasing leader with over two decades of progressive experience in supply chain, logistics, and project management within the fresh food industry. Recognized for driving operational efficiency, leading high-performing teams, and fostering a culture of collaboration and accountability. Proven success in streamlining complex processes, negotiating vendor contracts, and launching cost-saving initiatives—including programs that have saved upwards of $800,000 annually. Adept at building and mentoring teams, managing cross-functional projects, and aligning procurement strategies with organizational goals.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
Work History
Purchasing Manager
Taylor Farms Tennessee
03.2022 - Current
- Lead purchasing operations across packaging and perishable food categories, managing over 1,000 SKUs.
- Established and mentored a team of junior buyers to strengthen procurement capabilities.
- Spearheaded a cost-savings initiative resulting in annual savings of $800,000.
- Developed and implemented a facility-wide employee recognition program.
- Built strong relationships with secondary and backup suppliers to ensure continuity of supply.
- Oversaw external warehouse partnerships and maintained consistent, strategic communication.
- Hired and trained new personnel across multiple departments.
- Streamlined procurement processes to enhance supply chain efficiency and reduce lead times.
- Negotiated favorable contracts with suppliers, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness of raw materials.
- Developed relationships with key vendors to secure reliable supply channels and foster collaboration.
- Trained and mentored junior staff on best practices in procurement and supplier relationship management.
Buyer
Taylor Farms Tennessee
12.2018 - 03.2022
- Managed procurement of time-sensitive, short shelf-life items, ensuring continuous availability.
- Collaborated closely with production and project management teams to support seamless customer product launches.
- Worked proactively to prevent stockouts by sourcing alternative vendors with comparable materials.
- Analyzed market trends to forecast demand and optimize inventory levels.
- Executed purchase orders and ensured timely delivery of goods to maintain supply chain efficiency.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align procurement strategies with organizational goals.
- Evaluated supplier performance and implemented corrective actions to enhance service quality.
- Developed sourcing strategies that reduced costs while maintaining product quality standards.
Project Manager
Taylor Farms Tennessee
12.2016 - 12.2018
- Led cross-functional project teams to ensure timely delivery of program objectives.
- Implemented project management methodologies to enhance workflow efficiency and team collaboration.
- Developed detailed project plans, outlining scope, resources, and timelines for successful execution.
- Facilitated stakeholder meetings to gather requirements and align project goals with organizational strategy.
- Led cross-departmental coordination for new product rollouts, ensuring accurate and timely execution.
- Developed new recipes and coordinated BOM (Bill of Materials) creation across departments.
- Served as central point of communication between customer and internal stakeholders for launch execution.
Logistics Coordinator
Taylor Farms Tennessee
11.2015 - 11.2016
- Coordinated logistics operations to optimize supply chain efficiency and reduce delays.
- Managed inventory control processes, ensuring accuracy and timely replenishment of stock.
- Developed and maintained relationships with transportation vendors to enhance service delivery.
- Implemented process improvements that increased order fulfillment speed and minimized errors.
- Managed late delivery resolutions and coordinated accounting functions related to driver reimbursements.
Admissions Counselor
Genesis Career College
06.2014 - 11.2015
- Developed tailored admission strategies to enhance student recruitment and engagement.
- Facilitated prospective student consultations, providing guidance on program offerings and career pathways.
- Managed application processing, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and standards.
- Conducted outreach activities to build relationships with high schools and community organizations.
Education
Graphic And Digital Design
Valencia College
Orlando, FLSkills
- Procurement & Inventory Management
- Cross-Functional Leadership
- Vendor Negotiation & Relations
- Cost-Saving Initiatives
- New Product Launch Coordination
- Microsoft Dynamics & Adobe Creative Suite
- DOT Compliance & Logistics Oversight
- Team Training & Talent Development
- Conflict Management & Resolution
Timeline
Purchasing Manager
Taylor Farms Tennessee
03.2022 - Current
Buyer
Taylor Farms Tennessee
12.2018 - 03.2022
Project Manager
Taylor Farms Tennessee
12.2016 - 12.2018
Logistics Coordinator
Taylor Farms Tennessee
11.2015 - 11.2016
Admissions Counselor
Genesis Career College
06.2014 - 11.2015
Graphic And Digital Design
Valencia College
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