Jay Ward
Jay
Summary
Seasoned executive with a proven track record at Ward Lumber, adept in strategic planning and supplier relationship management. Spearheaded initiatives that significantly enhanced profitability and streamlined operations, leveraging expertise in ERP systems and interpersonal communication. Demonstrated leadership in fostering team growth and negotiating favorable terms, achieving notable increases in efficiency and company visibility.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Purchasing Manager
Ward Lumber
Jay
01.2024 - Current
- Monitored inventory levels to ensure adequate stock for sales requirements.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure the best possible prices for goods and services.
- Implemented policies and procedures for effective management of the purchasing process.
- Managed supplier relationships to ensure compliance with agreed-upon terms and conditions.
- Developed and maintained relationships with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of products.
- Coordinated with logistics to ensure timely delivery of purchased items.
- Developed and maintained an up-to-date database of suppliers, products, and prices.
- Reviewed purchase orders and ensured accuracy of information, such as pricing, payment terms and delivery dates.
- Collaborated with internal stakeholders such as sales personnel, operations managers and finance teams.
- Utilized ERP systems for efficient management of purchasing processes.
- Sourced new vendors for purchasing needs.
- Created detailed specifications for requested items prior to issuing purchase orders.
- Negotiated contracts with suppliers to secure advantageous terms.
CEO
Ward Lumber
Jay
03.2021 - 12.2023
- Led strategic planning and execution to enhance profitability and company growth.
- Developed and implemented strategic business plans to increase company profitability.
- Provided organizational leadership and collaborated with executive partners to establish long-term goals, strategies and company policies.
- Overseen the daily operations of the organization and ensured compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Cultivated relationships with external organizations to build partnerships that benefited both parties.
- Established policies and procedures that promoted an ethical work environment.
- Assessed financial performance of the organization on a regular basis and identified areas for improvement.
- Developed long-range plans for business growth, resulting in increase in annual sales.
- Hired, trained, and mentored staff members to maximize productivity.
- Managed executive team members to ensure successful execution of projects in a timely manner.
- Represented the organization at conferences, events, and networking activities as needed.
- Created and maintained relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, suppliers, government agencies, and other industry partners.
- Negotiated contracts with vendors to secure competitive pricing for goods or services.
- Collaborated with marketing teams on campaigns aimed at increasing brand visibility in target markets.
- Created program to promote new managers from within, leading to cohesive leadership structure.
- Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.
- Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training.
- Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.
- Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Computer Science
Utica College of Syracuse University
Utica, NY12-1987
Skills
- Inventory management
- Supplier relationship management
- ERP systems
- Interpersonal communication
- Time management
- Strategic planning
- Price negotiation
- Operations management
- Business administration
Affiliations
- Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity 2025 Reunion Organizing Committee Chairman
- Founding Board Member, AuSable River Valley Business Association, 2021 -2024
Accomplishments
- 1998 Business Person of the Year, Plattsburgh-North Country Chamber of Commerce, Jan 1999
- New York State Small Business Advocate of the Year, New York State Governor George Pataki, 1996
- Lumber Person of the Year, Northern New York Lumber Dealers Association, Jan 1995
Timeline
Purchasing Manager
Ward Lumber
01.2024 - Current
CEO
Ward Lumber
03.2021 - 12.2023
Bachelor of Science - Computer Science
Utica College of Syracuse University
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