Dean Willard
Summary
Results-oriented Procurement and Supply Chain Leader with over 20 years of experience in strategic sourcing, cost reduction, and supply chain optimization. Proven ability to develop and implement best practices, lead cross-functional teams, and deliver significant value across diverse industries. Expertise in project management, risk mitigation, and building strong supplier relationships.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Corporate Purchasing
Nitta Gelatin North America
Raleigh/Durham, NC
07.2017 - Current
- Lead the procurement function, ensuring the lowest total cost of ownership for all raw materials, packaging, and indirect materials.
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing plans to mitigate risk and deliver value across Canadian and US locations.
- Analyze markets, identify cost-saving opportunities, and negotiate contracts to achieve cost reductions.
- Provide senior management with key performance metrics reports to monitor progress and measure success.
- Recruited, trained, supervised, evaluated and mentored direct reports in US and Canada.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive strategies to improve operational processes and organizational efficiency.
- Serve as a public spokesperson at industry events or conferences.
Director of Sourcing
EHRMANN COMMONWEALTH USA, LLC
Brattleboro, VT
02.2016 - 06.2017
- Established the sourcing function, reorganized the department, and mentored the team to achieve organizational goals.
- Implemented best practices and procedures to maximize value creation through strategic sourcing.
- Delivered $5.5 million in savings on a $20 million spend through strategic sourcing of fruit, packaging, and logistics.
- Managed capital expansion projects within budget and on time.
Purchasing Manager, North American Procurement
NESTLE/GERBER GLOBAL (INFANT NUTRITION DIVISION)
Fremont, Michigan
01.2014 - 01.2015
- Managed the supply base to ensure the delivery of ingredients meeting Nestle specifications.
- Led initiatives to develop new suppliers, improve sourcing strategies, and support cost-saving efforts.
- Researched new sources for supplies, materials and services in order to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable laws related to procurement processes.
Manager of Corporate Purchasing
DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA
Kansas City, MO
01.2005 - 01.2014
- Negotiated national contracts for 31 locations, achieving significant cost reductions.
- Managed an annual spend of over $1.5 billion, driving a more centralized and strategic supply chain approach.
- Conducted research into potential new suppliers and evaluated their ability to meet organizational needs.
- Participated in cross-functional teams working on projects related to supply chain management.
- Assisted in the development of long-term strategic sourcing plans for various commodities.
- Audited supplier facilities for processes and quality.
- Conducted regular meetings with key suppliers to discuss upcoming projects and review performance metrics.
Senior Buyer
LOREN COOK COMPANY
Springfield, Missouri
01.1999 - 01.2005
Education
Master of Business Administration -
Arizona State University
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration -
Drury University
Timeline
Director of Corporate Purchasing
Nitta Gelatin North America
07.2017 - Current
Director of Sourcing
EHRMANN COMMONWEALTH USA, LLC
02.2016 - 06.2017
Purchasing Manager, North American Procurement
NESTLE/GERBER GLOBAL (INFANT NUTRITION DIVISION)
01.2014 - 01.2015
Manager of Corporate Purchasing
DAIRY FARMERS OF AMERICA
01.2005 - 01.2014
Senior Buyer
LOREN COOK COMPANY
01.1999 - 01.2005
Master of Business Administration -
Arizona State University
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration -
Drury University
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