Kathleen Hipes

Professional Growth at DLA:

Promoted to Contract Specialist in July 2022, managing pre-award processes with a $75K warrant.

Advanced to Purchasing Agent in June 2019, overseeing pre-award activities with a $10K warrant.

Transitioned from contractor to Purchasing Agent in November 2015, focusing on post-award processes with a $10K warrant.

• Conduct market research to identify vendors, and develop solicitation packages for goods and services supporting aviation and maritime operations.
• Coordinate and resolve issues with customers, vendors, and small purchase contractors to enhance service delivery.
• Document all procedures related to purchasing and supply chain operations.
• Collaborate with Technical Specialists and Customer Liaisons to maintain high customer service standards.

Promoted to Contract Specialist in July 2022, managing pre-award processes with a $75K warrant.

Advanced to Purchasing Agent in June 2019, overseeing pre-award activities with a $10K warrant.

Transitioned from contractor to Purchasing Agent in November 2015, focusing on post-award processes with a $10K warrant.

Job duties with transferable skills to support the library’s mission:

• Worked with a variety of touch points, including Legal, Buyers, and Contracting Specialists, to solve issues customers may be facing with shipments.
• Facilitated weekly, web-based, customer-facing training conferences. Performed quarterly customer touchpoints with established clients to help increase volume for OptiFreight.

Job duties with transferable skills to support the library’s mission:

• Assisted shoppers with needs, and processed their purchases.
• Processed customer catalog orders, re-ticketed merchandise, and maintained a positive supply of clothing and accessories on the sales floor during store open hours.