Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Laura Scates

Parsons

Summary

Experienced Materials Manager with a proven track record at Kolpak LLC, specializing in cost reduction and material control. Expert in reducing inventory and Oracle ERP system. I drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance efficiency and reduce lead times. Strong problem-solving skills foster collaboration across teams, achieving significant savings and optimizing procurement processes.

Overview

27
27
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Materials Manager III

Kolpak LLC
01.2020 - Current
  • Monitored safety stock levels and established order policies to balance inventory availability with minimal investment.
  • Managed subordinates and gave directives.
  • Maintained material control and information systems, supporting manufacturing and balancing inventory surpluses with customer demand.
  • Coordinated with production planning teams to ensure timely availability of raw materials required for scheduled productions runs.
  • Reduced lead times for critical materials through strategic supplier partnerships.
  • Negotiated favorable contract terms with suppliers, reducing costs without compromising on quality or delivery timeframes.
  • Conducted regular audits of material usage, identifying opportunities for improvement.

Commodity Manager

Kolpak LLC (Welbilt)
01.2012 - 01.2020
  • Drove continuous improvement initiatives within the supply chain organization, promoting best practices for cost savings and process efficiency.
  • Played an instrumental role in achieving annual cost reduction targets through focused commodity management strategies.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to align commodity management strategies with overall business goals and objectives.
  • Implemented cost-saving measures through value engineering efforts in collaboration with product design teams.
  • Created purchasing policies and procedures that complied with company standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Reduced costs by streamlining contract bidding and procurement processes to assure best prices for materials and services.

Senior Buyer

Kolpak LLC (Manitowoc FSG)
06.1998 - 01.2012
  • Participated in continuous improvement initiatives, contributing ideas for more effective procurement processes.
  • Achieved cost savings by implementing strategic sourcing and supplier negotiations.
  • Optimized inventory management practices, reducing excess stock and minimizing carrying costs.
  • Developed strong relationships with suppliers, fostering collaboration and mutual growth.
  • Reduced lead times by closely monitoring inventory levels and forecasting demand accurately.
  • Collaborated with buyers for special events and seasonal promotions to maintain adequate product stock and drive sales.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to identify opportunities for cost reduction and process improvement.
  • Led procurement team by training staff and overseeing purchasing decisions.
  • Played an instrumental role in major project launches by managing all aspects of procurement from planning to execution.
  • Managed a diverse portfolio of products, ensuring timely delivery and quality control.
  • Collaborated with internal departments to better understand needs and determine purchasing requirements.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Organizational Management

Bethel College
05-2004

Skills

  • Cost reduction
  • Material control
  • Demand forecasting
  • Problem solving
  • ERP systems proficiency

Certification

  • Green Belt Six Sigma Certification
  • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Timeline

Materials Manager III

Kolpak LLC
01.2020 - Current

Commodity Manager

Kolpak LLC (Welbilt)
01.2012 - 01.2020

Senior Buyer

Kolpak LLC (Manitowoc FSG)
06.1998 - 01.2012
  • Green Belt Six Sigma Certification
  • Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Bachelor of Science - Organizational Management

Bethel College
Laura Scates