Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

MELISSA A. LA ROSA

San Antonio

Summary

Results-driven Purchasing Agent with over 15 years of experience in procurement, purchasing, supply chain operations, and vendor relationship management. Demonstrated success in reducing procurement costs by 40%, ensuring compliance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and supporting mission-critical operations for the U.S. Coast Guard. Proven track record in purchase order processing, contract negotiation, inventory control, and audit compliance.

As procurement professional, brings wealth of experience in strategic sourcing and vendor management. Known for strong focus on team collaboration and delivering results under tight deadlines. Reliable and adaptable to changing business needs, ensuring efficient procurement practices and compliance with company policies.

Experienced with managing complex procurement processes and negotiating favorable terms with suppliers. Utilizes strategic sourcing techniques to identify cost-saving opportunities and ensure quality standards. Track record of fostering strong supplier relationships and maintaining seamless supply chain operations.

Resourceful Purchasing Agent responsibly and proficiently procures materials necessary for operations. Performs detailed cost analyses and negotiates with vendors using skilled problem-solving abilities. Experienced evaluator of supplier performance and maintains constant awareness of inventory levels.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Purchasing Agent / Procurement Specialist

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2018 - Current
  • Processed and managed purchase requests using government procurement systems, ensuring timely acquisition of goods and services for mission-critical operations.
  • Executed over $150K in procurement actions annually, maintaining full compliance with FAR and internal audit standards.
  • Developed and issued RFPs and purchase orders, handled vendor communications, and resolved disputes.
  • Led a budget tracking improvement project that brought the center into compliance with 100% passing DHS audit rates.
  • Oversaw contract terms including delivery schedules, payments, and inspections.
  • Procured specialized parts to support emergency operations (CASREP), directly impacting operational readiness.

Purchasing Specialist / Logistics Coordinator

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2014 - 01.2018
  • Led procurement planning and execution for IT and communication systems.
  • Handled SMA contracts and vendor issues related to pricing, backorders, and delivery.
  • Created and maintained purchase records, ensuring audit readiness and procurement transparency.
  • Partnered with HR to manage travel orders and de-obligation of unused funds.

Supply Chain & Logistics Specialist

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2010 - 01.2014
  • Facilitated procurement for operations involving international partners (Cuba, Bahamas, Dominican Republic).
  • Reviewed and processed over 400 purchases via the Federal Procurement Database.
  • Enhanced asset tracking accuracy through inventory audits and Oracle database management.
  • Trained and supervised junior staff in purchasing and supply procedures.

Procurement Operations Manager

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2008 - 01.2010
  • Managed acquisition planning and supply chain operations for high-maintenance fleet assets.
  • Conducted financial reconciliation for accounts totaling $1.3 million.
  • Improved warehouse efficiency by updating inventory and property management systems.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Finance

Thomas Edison State University

Graduate - undefined

US Coast Guard A-School
01.2004

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Bayside High School
01.2002

Skills

  • Purchase Order Management
  • Contract Negotiation & Compliance
  • Inventory & Supply Chain Management
  • Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)
  • Government Purchasing Systems
  • Vendor Relations & Dispute Resolution
  • Budget Allocation & Cost Control
  • Microsoft Excel, Word & Basic SAP
  • Time Management & Attention to Detail

Certification

  • FQN 425 - Simplified Acquisition Procedures
  • FCR 201 - Contracting Officer's Representative Level II
  • ACQ 3700V - Acquisition Law

Timeline

Purchasing Agent / Procurement Specialist

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2018 - Current

Purchasing Specialist / Logistics Coordinator

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2014 - 01.2018

Supply Chain & Logistics Specialist

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2010 - 01.2014

Procurement Operations Manager

U.S. Coast Guard
01.2008 - 01.2010

Graduate - undefined

US Coast Guard A-School

undefined

Bayside High School

Bachelor of Science - Finance

Thomas Edison State University