Erich Strupe
Winston-Salem,NC
Summary
Senior operations and supply chain leader with over 20 years of experience in procurement, logistics, and vendor management. Achieved 1,600% growth as a business owner. Demonstrated ability to thrive in fast-paced environments while maintaining high-quality standards and effective customer service. Decisive leader and strategic problem solver with excellent communication and planning abilities.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Operations Supervisor
Liberty Waste Solutions
Winston Salem, NC
09.2025 - 01.2026
- Directed drivers and optimized collection routes to enhance operational efficiency.
- Trained new employees on safety protocols and operational procedures.
- Monitored inventory levels to ensure seamless operations.
- Conducted vehicle inspections to comply with safety standards.
- Resolved customer inquiries regarding service disruptions in a timely manner.
- Managed daily operations, including personnel scheduling and task assignments.
- Coordinated maintenance schedules for equipment to minimize downtime.
- Reviewed employee work to ensure adherence to quality standards.
Director of Operations / CEO / Owner
Peak Waste LLC
Winston-Salem, NC
10.2023 - 09.2025
- Expanded service operations across seven counties, achieving 1,600% growth.
- Developed and implemented operational strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs.
- Oversaw logistics, vendor coordination, staffing, and daily operations management.
- Trained staff on best practices for waste handling and equipment operation.
- Resolved customer service issues swiftly while upholding high satisfaction levels.
- Established partnerships with local organizations to support sustainability efforts.
- Directed financial planning processes to optimize budget allocation and resource management.
- Maintained client relationships to improve account retention and service satisfaction.
Senior Buyer
W.R. Vernon Produce Co., Inc.
Winston-Salem, NC
10.2018 - 10.2023
- Directed purchasing operations, overseeing two buyers and inbound transportation processes.
- Monitored inventory levels to ensure optimal stock and prevent shortages.
- Collaborated with logistics teams to enhance product delivery schedules.
- Analyzed market trends to align purchasing strategies with industry demands.
- Established relationships with key suppliers to improve supply chain efficiency.
- Conducted regular meetings with suppliers to review performance metrics and future projects.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers to secure competitive pricing for materials and services.
- Maintained accurate records of purchases, including pricing, quantities, and lead times.
Specialty Procurement Coordinator
W.R. Vernon Produce Co., Inc.
Winston Salem, NC
08.2004 - 09.2018
- Developed new buying position, resulting in 25% profit margins
- Processed purchase orders and effectively tracked inventory levels.
- Resolved order discrepancies by promptly communicating with suppliers.
- Reviewed invoices for accuracy and ensured timely payment processing.
- Developed comprehensive reports on procurement activities, including budget tracking and spending analysis.
- Maintained strong vendor relationships through prompt responses to inquiries and resolution of issues.
- Acted as liaison between vendors, suppliers, and internal customers to facilitate communication.
- Monitored inventory levels and ordered materials accordingly.
Education
Religion and Philosophy
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Skills
- Supply chain management
- Strategic sourcing and procurement
- Logistics and transportation
- Vendor negotiation
- Inventory management
- Route optimization
- Cost control
- Team leadership
- Customer service
- Problem resolution
- Operations management
- Data analysis
- Task delegation
- Relationship building
Timeline
Operations Supervisor
Liberty Waste Solutions
09.2025 - 01.2026
Director of Operations / CEO / Owner
Peak Waste LLC
10.2023 - 09.2025
Senior Buyer
W.R. Vernon Produce Co., Inc.
10.2018 - 10.2023
Specialty Procurement Coordinator
W.R. Vernon Produce Co., Inc.
08.2004 - 09.2018
Religion and Philosophy
University of North Carolina at Pembroke