Connie Faulkner
Fargo,ND
Summary
Dynamic Contract Management and Procurement Specialist with extensive experience in overseeing multi-million-dollar contracts, vendor negotiations, and compliance oversight. Proven track record of driving significant cost savings, mitigating risks, and leading cross-functional teams through all phases of the contract lifecycle. Expertise in developing comprehensive procurement portfolios, streamlining processes, and negotiating favorable agreements while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory standards. Recognized for exceptional negotiation skills and stakeholder engagement, with a strong emphasis on cultivating robust supplier relationships that deliver value-driven outcomes in highly regulated environments.
Overview
27
27
years of professional experience
Work History
Contract Specialist / Contracting Officer
USDA – Agricultural Research Service
Fargo, ND
01.2012 - Current
- Directed cradle-to-grave procurement lifecycle for service, supply, construction, A&E, services, and supply contracts valued at millions annually.
- Vast Experience with construction, supplies, service A&E and various other types in accordance with the FAR. In addition to experience with Time and Materials contracts.
- Negotiated and executed 1,300+ cradle-to-grave contracts, achieving measurable cost savings through negotiations and competitive sourcing.
- Streamlined procurement processes and developed contract management policies that increased efficiency and compliance.
- Streamlined vendor selection processes, resulting in faster procurement cycles and improved supplier performance
- Trained, mentored, and supervised contract specialists, improving team performance and reducing errors.
- Negotiated favorable terms with vendors, achieving cost savings and improved service delivery.
- Collaborated cross-functionally with finance
- Reduced risk exposure by reviewing and enforcing contract obligations, ensuring regulatory and legal adherence.
- Trained and mentored new specialists and purchase agents; acted as reviewer/approver for team contract actions.
- Streamlined vendor selection and procurement processes, cutting delays and boosting efficiency.
- Implemented tracking systems for performance monitoring, enabling proactive issue resolution.
- Partnered with legal counsel on sensitive negotiations, safeguarding organizational goals.
- Championed change management during contract revisions, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruptions.
- Key Achievements:
- Reduced operational costs by improving procurement strategies and vendor negotiations.
- Managed contracts valued in the millions while maintaining compliance and mitigating legal and financial risks.
- Served as peer reviewer and advisor for contracting staff, strengthening organizational contract practices.
Purchasing Agent & Program Support Assistant
USDA – Agricultural Research Service
Fargo, ND
01.2009 - 01.2012
- Supported procurement operations, preparing solicitations, conducting, created solicitation packages, conducted market research, and facilitating vendor selection.
- Managed purchasing card program for 60+ users, ensuring compliance and accuracy in financial reporting.
- Coordinated fleet, property, and closeout procedures.
- Mentored and trained junior contract specialists, improving operational efficiency.
- Obtained initial Contracting Officer warrant ($250K)
Trading Associate II
Raymond James Financial – International Headquarters
01.2003 - 01.2007
- Maintained accuracy of thousands of high-value investment accounts, ensuring compliance and risk mitigation.
- Delivered superior client service while supporting trading operations in a fast-paced environment.
Airman
United States Air Force
01.1999 - 01.2003
- Financial & Procurement Specialist
- Processed and audited travel and procurement orders; trained staff in compliance, reducing errors and saving resources.
- Oversaw budgeting, purchasing, and audits for large-scale operations.
- Trained fellow airmen on auditing and financial procedures.
- Oversaw base-wide purchase card and shipping program, reducing costs and eliminating errors.
Education
B.S. - Business Management
Wayland Baptist University
Plainview, TXA.A.S. - Business Administration
Interstate Business College
B.S. - Business Management
Interstate Business College
Fargo, ND01.2013
Skills
- Strategic sourcing and procurement
- Contract Negotiation & Administration, Procurement
- Supply Chain Management
- Risk & Compliance Oversight
- Vendor Relationship Management, Vendor & Stakeholder Relations,
- Process Improvement & Cost Savings Procurement & Acquisitions,
- Risk Identification & Mitigation,
- Regulatory & Legal Compliance, Team Leadership & Mentoring,
- Cost Reduction Strategies,
- Conflict Mediation & Dispute Resolution
- Process Improvement, Market Research & Vendor Sourcing,
- Dispute Resolution & Mediation and Competitive Analysis
Community Service
Pride and Joy Rescue, Executive Director, 2020, Present, Lead nonprofit operations, fundraising, campaigns, and community outreach., Secured donations, managed events, and expanded social media strategy., Organized adoption events, volunteer teams; manage operations and community partnerships.
Timeline
Contract Specialist / Contracting Officer
USDA – Agricultural Research Service
01.2012 - Current
Purchasing Agent & Program Support Assistant
USDA – Agricultural Research Service
01.2009 - 01.2012
Trading Associate II
Raymond James Financial – International Headquarters
01.2003 - 01.2007
Airman
United States Air Force
01.1999 - 01.2003
A.A.S. - Business Administration
Interstate Business College
B.S. - Business Management
Interstate Business College
B.S. - Business Management
Wayland Baptist University