Brooke Obringer
Yellow Springs
Summary
Experienced procurement specialist skilled in vendor negotiations, inventory management, and cost analysis. Strong focus on team collaboration and achieving results, with flexible approach to changing needs. Known for strategic planning, market research, and ensuring timely delivery of quality products. Dependable and efficient in fast-paced environments.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Buyer
Xylem Inc.
Yellow Springs, OH
02.2020 - Current
- Manage procurement activities for more than 5,000 operational and production parts supporting water quality manufacturing operations.
- Oversee sourcing and purchasing for MRO supplies, precious metals, scientific equipment, hazardous materials, and First Article Inspection (FAI) products.
- Conduct supplier negotiations and market analysis initiatives resulting in approximately $500K in annual company savings.
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing solutions during supply chain disruptions to maintain production continuity and minimize operational risk.
- Partner cross-functionally with production, engineering, accounting, logistics, and operations teams to support inventory requirements and operational goals.
- Monitor supplier performance, pricing, lead times, and contract compliance to improve delivery reliability and purchasing efficiency.
- Utilize Oracle 11i/ GIM/ PFEP, Salesforce, and procurement tracking tools to manage purchase orders, inventory levels, and 80/20 initiatives
- Strengthened supplier and internal communication channels, significantly reducing production delays and improving issue resolution.
- Recognized by leadership with spot awards and management recognition for cost-saving initiatives, process improvements, and exceptional team collaboration.
Customer Service Representative
Xylem Inc.
Yellow Springs, Ohio
03.2018 - 02.2020
- Responsible for proactively managing procurement processes and customer interactions to ensure seamless transactions and exceptional service delivery throughout the procurement lifecycle.
- Served as the go-to representative with comprehensive cross-training in the Technology Repairs Department, Accounting Department, and Events Planning Committee, providing invaluable support and flexibility across various organizational functions to meet dynamic business needs.
- Organized, prioritized, and managed customer contracts and dealings in compliance with Xylem's policies and trade regulations, leveraging tools such as Oracle 11i, Salesforce, and Chase Bank for meticulous documentation and purchase order tracking.
- Proficient in multichannel communication methods including Live Chat, E-commerce platforms, and Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) systems, facilitating efficient customer interactions and order processing. Additionally, adept at managing pricing in Oracle by referencing current price lists to streamline procurement operations.
- Streamlined procurement processes, reducing order processing time by 20%, and enhanced service delivery through proactive customer engagement.
Program Manager
ViaQuest Inc.
Dayton, Ohio
04.2017 - 03.2018
- Conducted thorough analyses of procurement needs and market trends to develop strategic procurement plans tailored to individual's objectives versus corporation spending goals, resulting in optimized supply chain processes and cost efficiencies.
- Established and maintained strong vendor relationships, negotiating favorable terms and conditions to ensure the timely delivery of goods and services to individualized plans.
- Managed staff and all program processes including, but not limited to all Human Resources functions including new employee onboarding, training, staffing, and termination procedures.
Protective Service Representative
Advocacy and Protective Services Inc.
Dayton, OH
08.2014 - 04.2017
- Boosted client satisfaction by effectively advocating in legal settings.
- Enhanced client legal outcomes by effectively advocating in diverse settings.
- Led team meetings and ensured compliance with state and national protocols for a non-profit organization providing guardianship services, fostering a culture of excellence and commitment to the well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities.
Computer Department Manager
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, OH
04.2013 - 08.2014
- Spearheaded the success of over 300 procurement programs by collaborating directly with stakeholders including students, faculty, and staff to identify and address their educational technology needs.
- Implemented strategic promotional campaigns both on and off campus to showcase and promote products from leading technology vendors such as Apple, Dell Computers, Microsoft, and Adobe, resulting in increased awareness and adoption of relevant products.
- Managed a rapidly expanding department, providing leadership and guidance by interpreting and enforcing policies, procedures, and standards to ensure efficient operations and compliance.
Program Manager
Connect2One Buying Group
Cincinnati, Ohio
08.2012 - 04.2013
- Led selection and coordination of innovative product buying decisions for purchasing agents nationwide, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and market demands.
- Served as a key liaison for business-to-business (B2B) marketing initiatives, facilitating partnerships with large corporations within the targeted marketplaces to drive strategic procurement opportunities and enhance vendor relationships.
- Developed highly anticipated presentations for corporations, showcasing upcoming products and innovations before their launch in the market, demonstrating a keen understanding of market trends and customer needs.
Merchandise Coordinator
Sinclair Community College
Dayton, OH
05.2009 - 08.2012
- Managed all aspects of department purchasing, including sourcing suppliers, negotiating contracts, and ensuring timely delivery of goods, while adhering to budgetary constraints.
- Proactively attended tradeshows and conferences nationwide to stay abreast of industry trends and discover new products for stock, ensuring a diverse and competitive product offering.
- Nationally recognized for technology department building and process developments.
Education
Six Sigma Green Belt - Online Green Belt Certification
Gemba Academy
Online06-2024
Bachelor of Business Administration – BBA - Business Administration and Management, General
The University of Toledo
Toledo, OH03-2006
Associate of Business Administration and Marketing - Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
University of Northwestern Ohio
Lima, OH03-2002
Skills
- MS Office Suite/ POS System Expertise
- Inventory Management
- Strong Oral and Written Communication
- Vendor Negotiations
- Strategic Sourcing & Procurement
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Vendor Relationship Building
- Demand Planning & Forecasting
Timeline
Buyer
Xylem Inc.
02.2020 - Current
Customer Service Representative
Xylem Inc.
03.2018 - 02.2020
Program Manager
ViaQuest Inc.
04.2017 - 03.2018
Protective Service Representative
Advocacy and Protective Services Inc.
08.2014 - 04.2017
Computer Department Manager
University of Cincinnati
04.2013 - 08.2014
Program Manager
Connect2One Buying Group
08.2012 - 04.2013
Merchandise Coordinator
Sinclair Community College
05.2009 - 08.2012
Bachelor of Business Administration – BBA - Business Administration and Management, General
The University of Toledo
Associate of Business Administration and Marketing - Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
University of Northwestern Ohio
Six Sigma Green Belt - Online Green Belt Certification
Gemba Academy