KATHLENE M. POPLIN
Purchasing
Stow,USA
Summary
Veteran Purchasing Manager bringing over 25 years of experience focused on actualizing high-quality, cost-effective procurement solutions. Talented in leading projects, directing logistics and managing inventory needs. Dedicated to maintaining schedules and budgets while enhancing operational performance.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
Work History
Purchasing Manager
Vistar/PFG Op/Co
04.2019 - 04.2025
- Sourced vendors, built relationships, and negotiated prices.
- Spearheaded procurement strategies, optimizing inventory levels & achieving a 99% fill rate.
- Enhanced category strategies by implementing data-driven decision-making using Power BI.
- Identified cost-effective product alternatives, boosting revenue by 5%.
- Strengthened SOX compliance by refining purchasing controls and audit processes.
- Purchased new products and oversaw inventory stocking and availability.
Merchandise Manager
Vistar/PFG Op/Co
09.2017 - 04.2019
- Streamlined sourcing and inventory using Prism Purchasing System & Web/Now Perceptive.
- Enhanced product promotions and customer engagement through cross-functional collaboration.
- Boosted sales performance by effectively managing merchandise assortments and inventory levels.
- Monitored inventory levels and made necessary adjustments to maximize sales and profits.
- Optimized stock levels by implementing an effective replenishment system, reducing stockouts and overstock situations.
Buyer
Vistar/PFG Op/Co
02.2017 - 09.2017
- Managed multi-line product procurement, maintaining 99% service levels while reducing inventory loss.
- Negotiated vendor contracts, securing favorable pricing & improved delivery timelines.
- Used Dev/Gemini software for demand forecasting, redusing out of stocks by 5%.
- Participated in trade shows and conferences to stay informed of the latest industry developments and maintain a strong professional network.
- Improved inventory management by conducting regular audits, analyzing usage patterns, and implementing demand forecasts.
Buyer II/PSSA
US Foods
10.2014 - 02.2017
- Provided procurement support to sales teams, resolving supplier issues within 24 hours on average.
- Acted as a key liaison between sales, category management, and suppliers to improve supply chain efficiency..
- Placed orders for merchandise consistent with quality, quantity and other specification requirements.
- Developed strong relationships with suppliers to secure favorable pricing terms and conditions for the company''s benefit.
- Built long-term supplier relationships with vendors to establish quality and competitive pricing.
Buyer II
US Foods
03.2012 - 10.2014
- Monitored product movement forecasts, ensuring a 99.5% service level for customers.
- Collaborated with internal departments and vendors, resolving supply chain issues within set deadlines.
- Reduced expired inventory by 18% through improved quality control measures.
Buyer
Lake Erie Correctional Institution
11.2001 - 06.2011
- Managed procurement operations, optimizing supplier contracts and reducing costs by 10%.
- Negotiated vendor agreements, ensuring timely deliveries and compliance with regulations.
- Enhanced procurement efficiency through data analytics and automated tracking systems.
- Collaborated with internal departments to better understand needs and determine purchasing requirements.
- Supported new product launches by ensuring timely availability of required materials, aligning with project timelines.
- Played key role in contract negotiations, achieving favorable terms that supported company's budgetary objectives.
Education
Certified Project Management (CPM) Courses -
Penn State Behrend
Erie, PA01.2007
Accounting Certificate Program - undefined
Bradford Business School
01.1991
Diploma - undefined
Edgewood Senior High School
01.1989
Skills
- Vendor relationship management
- Purchase order management
- Supply chain management
- Inventory coordination
- Financial acumen
- E-procurement systems
- Price negotiations
- Problem-solving
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Analytical thinking
- ERP software
Timeline
Purchasing Manager
Vistar/PFG Op/Co
04.2019 - 04.2025
Merchandise Manager
Vistar/PFG Op/Co
09.2017 - 04.2019
Buyer
Vistar/PFG Op/Co
02.2017 - 09.2017
Buyer II/PSSA
US Foods
10.2014 - 02.2017
Buyer II
US Foods
03.2012 - 10.2014
Buyer
Lake Erie Correctional Institution
11.2001 - 06.2011
Accounting Certificate Program - undefined
Bradford Business School
Diploma - undefined
Edgewood Senior High School
Certified Project Management (CPM) Courses -
Penn State Behrend
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