Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
Generic

CARLEEN M. GARDNER

Summary

Global Category Manager with more than 25 years of supply chain and production planning experience. Demonstrated leadership capabilities with direct and indirect employee groups. Employs tact, sound judgment and maintains professional demeanor in communication and relationships with others while striving to deliver best quality in daily work. Proactive Purchasing Manager helping businesses meet fulfillment obligations through reliable vendor partnerships and streamlined ordering processes. Performs detailed research in supplier selection, sourcing and value assessment to form best overall strategy for long-term gain. Manages purchasing budget to determine feasibility of contracts and exceed savings goals. Savvy Procurement Specialist committed to helping companies build dependable supply networks for uninterrupted service. Eager to work with vendors and negotiate contracts for long-term growth and mutual business support.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Global Category Manager

Packaging, Dentsply Sirona
06.2022 - Current
  • Responsible for leading: direct packaging sourcing, negotiation, risk management, category strategy development and execution, supplier relationship, and performance management for over $25M in annual spend
  • Leverage strong business and professional relationships with strategic suppliers and industry players to influence their supply chain capabilities, efficiency, and effectiveness
  • Responsible for fiscal budgeting information such as standard costs for materials and appropriate inventory levels to support production requirements.
  • Monitored the market to capitalize on the latest trends
  • Fostered a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating collaboratively with customers
  • Developed and executed spending categories to support business objectives
  • Partnered with buyers to develop category-appropriate order frequency for spend under management
  • Researched, prepared for, and led supplier negotiation process for managed category
  • Reduced business risk by improving contract coverage for suppliers in the spending category
  • Visited supplier offices and plants to conduct audits, monitored performance, and investigated facilities and capacity to meet quality requirements, specifications, and delivery dates
  • Mitigated business risk and improved customer lead times through thoughtful supplier network design
  • Reduced business risk by improving contract coverage for suppliers in the spend category.
  • Developed and executed comprehensive global category strategies, resulting in improved efficiency and reduced spend.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for cost savings and process improvements in the supply chain.
  • Led efforts to consolidate the supplier base, resulting in increased purchasing power and better pricing negotiations.
  • Conducted regular market analysis to identify trends, risks, and opportunities within assigned categories.
  • Facilitated communication between internal stakeholders and suppliers to ensure alignment on objectives, priorities, and expectations.
  • Championed change management initiatives within the procurement function, supporting organizational transformation efforts.
  • Identified and reported key performance indicators to define successful category management.
  • Increased global category savings by implementing strategic sourcing initiatives and optimizing supplier relationships.
  • Achieved cost reduction targets through effective negotiation with suppliers and implementation of procurement best practices.

Supply Chain Planning Manager

Idexx
12.2017 - 06.2022
  • Cultivated business relationships with fulfillment houses, negotiating product deliveries based on contractual turn times and daily shipment schedule
  • Assessed major event history, identified gaps, and leveraged capacity modeling and coaching to hold planning reschedules below goal
  • Lead cross-functional teams, mentor, and develop others
  • Demonstrated leadership and proven experience and application of best practice procurement skills
  • Accountable for meeting expiration scrap targets, delivering annual budget targets, created master data governance for products and/or systems under control
  • Developed effective risk mitigation plans, ensuring an uninterrupted supply of critical materials.
  • Collaborated with internal teams to improve outputs to meet demand and supply requirements, ensuring inventory integrity targets for finished goods.
  • Implemented inventory-management strategies to maximize availability and decrease waste.
  • Coached team members on best practices in demand planning, inventory management, and procurement techniques.
  • Led continuous improvement initiatives, resulting in increased productivity and reduced lead times.
  • Established inventory targets, stock level, and risk mitigation targets and managed flexibility strategy to optimize inventory.
  • Enhanced supply chain efficiency by implementing demand planning and forecasting strategies.

Planning and Logistics Manager

Idexx
02.2016 - 12.2017
  • Managed a team of (13) logistics professionals, providing coaching and guidance for career development and skill enhancement.
  • Improved on-time delivery rates by 40% by optimizing transportation routes and establishing scheduling strategies
  • Collaborated with manufacturing and supply chain management to improve relationships through efficiencies implemented in processes
  • Developed effective and optimized production and purchase plans to support product availability goals worldwide
  • Delivered key performance indicators (KPI's) as defined and agreed to annually
  • Ensured regulatory compliance in all aspects of logistics operations, including transportation safety standards and customs requirements.
  • Initiated and supported key processes improvement processes such as financial forecasting cycle, standard cost, and budgeting
  • Spearheaded the adoption of new technologies such as warehouse automation systems, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
  • Resolved shipping discrepancies by coordinating customer and courier communications.
  • Negotiated favorable terms with carriers, resulting in significant cost savings for the organization without compromising service quality.
  • Improved inventory accuracy by developing and implementing enhanced control systems.
  • Oversaw the procurement process, establishing strategic partnerships with suppliers to reduce lead times, improve pricing, and minimize stockouts.
  • Trained new staff on job duties, company policies, and safety procedures for rapid onboarding.
  • Tracked production and quality control systems to proactively identify deficiencies.
  • Reduced warehouse storage costs with effective space utilization strategies.
  • Streamlined logistics processes by implementing efficient inventory management systems. This resulted in improved inventory accuracy.

Senior Purchasing Agent

Dant-Clayton
01.2015 - 02.2016
  • Streamlined procurement processes by implementing efficient purchasing strategies, reducing lead times, and minimizing stockouts.
  • Enhanced supplier relationships through effective negotiation tactics, resulting in cost savings and improved service levels.
  • Developed and maintained a strong network of suppliers to ensure product quality, competitive pricing, and timely delivery.
  • Provide value analysis on purchases; quantify the cost of quality and late shipments
  • Established long-term supply agreements with key vendors to secure stable pricing and reliable product availability.
  • Improvement in net working capital (payment terms key suppliers) from 45 to 60 days
  • Provided vendor training and support resulting in reduced shipping errors by 80%.
  • Computed and created purchase orders in SAP to monitor stock levels, verify purchase requisitions, and expedite customer orders.
  • Solved diverse supply chain problems involving numerous sources, logistics, and scheduling factors.
  • Conducted regular market analysis to identify new suppliers, products, or technologies that could improve company operations or profitability.
  • Maintained effective and lasting vendor relationships through dynamic communication, collaboration, and intelligent questioning skills.
  • Identified and resolved supply chain issues to mitigate delays and production disruptions.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams for seamless integration of purchasing activities into overall business strategy.
  • Developed and implemented strategies to reduce operational costs.
  • Evaluated vendor performance regularly against established criteria to ensure compliance with quality standards and contractual obligations.

Purchasing Team Lead

Flextronics Global Services
01.2013 - 03.2014
  • Optimized vendor selection process by creating a comprehensive supplier evaluation matrix based on quality, price, service levels, and other relevant factors.
  • Created Standard Operating Procedures to train new buyers on all systems and processes
  • Managed a team of (15 US and India) purchasing professionals, fostering a collaborative work environment that optimized performance.
  • Track team purchase order rescheduling / cancellation requests to meet contractual/site goals on inventory
  • Conducted regular supplier evaluations to ensure compliance with organizational standards and expectations.
  • Developed and maintained detailed documentation of all procurement activities including purchase orders, contracts, invoices, and supplier communications records.
  • Reduced order lead times through effective communication with suppliers, improving inventory management.
  • Provided ongoing training and development opportunities for purchasing team members to enhance their skills and knowledge base.
  • Led periodic review meetings with suppliers to address any issues or concerns related to product quality, pricing, or delivery schedules.
  • Negotiated favorable contract terms with vendors, resulting in significant cost savings for the company.
  • Analyzed sales and inventory data to determine purchasing needs and reorder points.
  • Streamlined procurement processes by implementing efficient purchasing strategies and cost-saving measures.
  • Evaluated product quality and vendor performance to maintain quality standards.
  • Developed and managed budgets for purchasing and projected purchasing needs.
  • Implemented strategic sourcing initiatives that increased overall efficiency within the purchasing department while reducing costs.
  • Initiated cost reduction initiatives by identifying areas where alternative materials or suppliers could be used without compromising product quality or functionality.

Buyer II/Return to Vendor SME

Flextronics
11.2012 - 01.2013
  • Organized cross-functional teams to review proposals from various suppliers, ensuring the most advantageous offers were selected.
  • Mitigated risks associated with supply chain disruptions by developing contingency plans and maintaining a diverse supplier base.
  • Continuously seek tailored innovative solutions to help customers' businesses grow and thrive
  • Computed and created purchase orders to monitor stock levels, verify purchase requisitions, and expedite customer orders.
  • Significantly impact customer's experience and ensure satisfaction
  • Reviews requisitions, approves invoices for payment, and MRP output
  • Confers with vendors to obtain product or service information such as price, availability, and delivery schedule
  • Maintains procurement records such as items or services purchased costs, delivery, and inventories
  • Manages supplier to price, delivery, and quality expectations and escalates when appropriate
  • Implement policies and procedure
  • Negotiate with suppliers and customers to secure both delivery and the best market price.
  • Maintained complete documentation and records of all purchasing activities.
  • Collaborated with internal departments to better understand needs and determine purchasing requirements.
  • Oversaw the purchasing process from initiating requests to finalizing contracts to deliver smooth transactions.


Master Scheduler/Buyer

Reynolds Flexible Packaging
05.2006 - 04.2011
  • Reduced lead times for critical projects by prioritizing tasks and adjusting resources accordingly.
  • Improved on-time delivery rates with diligent schedule management and proactive communication with stakeholders.
  • Optimized production schedules by analyzing demand forecasts and capacity constraints.
  • Maintained production schedule for three business units simultaneously
  • Maintained accurate project timelines, identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies when necessary.
  • Ensured production process met environmental health and safety emission requirements and import/export regulations
  • Worked directly with raw material suppliers to resolve delivery, pricing, and quality issues
  • Analyzed trends and applied insights to ensure the appropriate level of inventory was maintained to meet customer needs
  • Coordinated new products and trial scheduling with Research and Development, Quality, and Environmental Health and Safety Departments.
  • Enhanced efficiency in the manufacturing process by refining scheduling strategies based on historical performance data.
  • Developed comprehensive master production schedules that accounted for material availability, labor requirements, and equipment constraints.
  • Collaborated with planning, operations, and maintenance teams to improve material planning metrics for work order on-time deliveries.
  • Adapted quickly to changing business needs by modifying schedules as required while maintaining visibility across all affected functions.
  • Performed analysis of materials to maximize product planning, capacity, product completion, and delivery efficiency meeting customer and site requirements.
  • Conducted regular schedule reviews with key stakeholders to address concerns, provide updates, and gather feedback for continuous improvement.
  • Facilitated smooth handoffs between departments by ensuring seamless coordination of tasks and deadlines.

Lead Buyer/Cooling Engine Module, Project Manager

FCA, Daimler Chrysler
03.2000 - 03.2001
  • Managed production-related accounts including negotiation of materials acquisition at lowest possible cost
  • Sourced and developed new suppliers
  • Oversaw $70M portfolio of over 50 suppliers and 100 components
  • Performed evaluations of existing suppliers including assessment of price, product quality and reliability, service support, and product selection
  • Managed purchase order process including change notices for over $40 million in orders
  • Served as liaison between platforms, quality, finance, engineers, and suppliers
  • Lead strategist for developing global commodity with Daimler Benz counterpart
  • Negotiated pricing and lead times with suppliers
  • Reviewed and audited processes and identified improvement opportunities in processes and systems at supplier location
  • Represented sourcing in New Product Development (NPD) team to ensure integrity and clarity of engineering drawing requirements and their effective communication to supporting supplier
  • Resolved receipt and supplier invoice materials discrepancies
  • Completed quality audits and PPAP
  • Large and Small Car, Developed and implemented new business and continuous improvement processes resulting in savings of over $55M
  • Oversight of $150M budget
  • Created and maintained financial tracking for two automobile launches simultaneously
  • Reviewed requisitions and purchase orders for accuracy
  • Secured funding for new and future model cars
  • Conducted analysis to determine specific funding requirements to facilitate corporate supply initiatives
  • Developed work scope and negotiated service contracts with 1st Tier program management suppliers
  • Strong supplier management skills to ensure escalations are taken to highest level to get solution and ensure team are driving weekly conference calls with key overseas suppliers
  • Ensure personnel KOI, weekly meetings are structured and formally reviewed with team members
  • Develop saving targets for purchasing team
  • Identify and implement process improvements
  • Create and maintain item supplier information parameters on purchasing data
  • Participated in regular business reviews with suppliers to ensure all processes were documented and maintained
  • Lead and deliver projects that will improve on existing T's and C's with vendor base to optimize supply chain.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks.
  • Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
  • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects.
  • Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
  • Achieved project deadlines by coordinating with contractors to manage performance.
  • Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
  • Provided detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
  • Coordinated material procurement and required services for projects within budget requirements.
  • Developed and initiated projects, managed costs, and monitored performance.
  • Prepared and submitted project invoices for review and approval.
  • Developed and implemented strategic project plans to meet business objectives.
  • Maintained complete documentation and records of all purchasing activities.
  • Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
  • Communicated with vendors regarding inventory needs and negotiated prices to maintain profit margins.
  • Collaborated with internal departments to better understand needs and determine purchasing requirements.
  • Computed and created purchase orders to monitor stock levels, verify purchase requisitions and expedite customer orders.
  • Oversaw purchasing process from initiating requests to finalizing contracts to deliver smooth transaction.
  • Forecasted purchasing trends and improved merchandising strategies.
  • Developed new strategies to reduce purchasing costs and maintain quality standards.
  • Developed cost-effective purchasing strategies to maintain inventory levels and improve operational procedures.
  • Analyzed current vendors and products to stay abreast of market trends and evaluate new suppliers.
  • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to resolve project issues and mitigate risks
  • Monitored project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments
  • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for large projects
  • Provided detailed project status updates to stakeholders and executive management
  • Achieved project deadlines by coordinating with contractors to manage performance
  • Identified plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives
  • Coordinated material procurement and required services for projects within budget requirements
  • Prepared and submitted project invoices for review and approval
  • Developed and implemented strategic project plans to meet business objectives
  • Negotiated and managed third-party contracts related to project deliverables
  • Managed projects from procurement to commission

Interim Production Manager

Flextronics Global Services
03.2014 - 01.2015
  • Planned workflow, manage multiple priorities, and meet daily production targets while consistently reducing downtime
  • Work with engineering, quality, and operations to develop new procedures and processes to improve production accuracy
  • Managed high volume business unit of 350 employees, $6M Annual Revenue Forecast
  • Worked independently with the guidance from the Director of Operations
  • Instituted and monitored safe work practice procedures to maintain an injury-free and efficient production facility
  • Provide leadership to subordinates and track competencies to coach and mentor them to achieve best results
  • Ensure complete compliance to prescribed GMP's and 5S processes.
  • Resolved issues quickly to maintain productivity goals.
  • Reviewed work for quality and compliance with company standards and design specifications.
  • Standardized production procedures, job roles, and quality assurance guidelines.
  • Managed continuous improvement initiatives to drive gains in quality, flow, and output.
  • Managed internal operational standards and productivity targets.
  • Estimated labor requirements to support anticipated workload.
  • Partnered with leadership on recruiting, hiring and coaching production personnel.
  • Delivered direct feedback to senior management regarding project visibility and status.
  • Determined suitable crew requirements, scheduled employees, and worked with human resources to meet changing production schedules.
  • Created streamlined production schedules and collaborated with production employees to communicate objectives and goals.
  • Wrote and conducted formal performance reviews for production personnel.
  • Created and oversaw production schedules and adjusted as needed to meet deadlines.
  • Coordinated with other departments to align production with customer requirements.
  • Evaluated employee performance and provided feedback and training as needed.
  • Managed personnel by implementing company policies, procedures, work rules, and disciplinary action.
  • Enforced health and safety protocols to promote safe working environment.
  • Scrutinized production output and identified areas for improvement.
  • Planned operations to meet established schedules, factoring in order demands and business forecasts.
  • Prepared and maintained production reports and personnel records.
  • Utilized data analysis tools to identify and resolve production issues.
  • Trained in and implemented emergency response procedures to protect team members and property.

Education

MBA - Business Administration

University of Phoenix
Phoenix, AZ

Bachelor of Science - Packaging Engineering

Michigan State University
East Lansing, MI

Skills

  • Supply Chain Assistance
  • Enterprise Resource Planning
  • Employee Reviews
  • Feature Product Selection
  • Employee Performance
  • International Purchasing
  • Invoice Reconciliation
  • Procurement Management
  • Financial Activity Authorization
  • Purchase Order Management
  • Quality Service Standards Adherence
  • Supplier Due Diligence
  • Procurement Planning
  • Training Documents

Affiliations

  • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc-Chair International Awareness & Involvement
  • Mich State Black Alumni Inc- 2022 National President

Timeline

Global Category Manager

Packaging, Dentsply Sirona
06.2022 - Current

Supply Chain Planning Manager

Idexx
12.2017 - 06.2022

Planning and Logistics Manager

Idexx
02.2016 - 12.2017

Senior Purchasing Agent

Dant-Clayton
01.2015 - 02.2016

Interim Production Manager

Flextronics Global Services
03.2014 - 01.2015

Purchasing Team Lead

Flextronics Global Services
01.2013 - 03.2014

Buyer II/Return to Vendor SME

Flextronics
11.2012 - 01.2013

Master Scheduler/Buyer

Reynolds Flexible Packaging
05.2006 - 04.2011

Lead Buyer/Cooling Engine Module, Project Manager

FCA, Daimler Chrysler
03.2000 - 03.2001

MBA - Business Administration

University of Phoenix

Bachelor of Science - Packaging Engineering

Michigan State University

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CARLEEN M. GARDNER