Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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Melody Philhower

Lawrenceburg,IN

Summary

Experienced procurement professional with a proven history at Baxter International and Toyota. Delivers notable cost reductions and cultivates strong supplier partnerships. Proficient in strategic sourcing, team management, and supply chain optimization. Leads impactful initiatives that enhance sustainability and diversity. Goal-oriented approach, combined with strong analytical skills and a collaborative leadership style, consistently achieves successful results in procurement projects.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Director | Procurement Business Processes and Analytics

Baxter International
06.2024 - Current
  • Led cross-functional projects, collaborating with departments to implement supplier EDI and standardize payment terms, reducing payment delays and improving supplier satisfaction
  • Optimized supplier management processes, including indirect POs and service desk operations, driving an increase in operational efficiency and reducing supplier onboarding time
  • Initiated and executed eco-friendly supply chain programs, reducing carbon footprint while maintaining cost-efficiency and contributing to the company's sustainability goals
  • Optimized project timelines by effectively delegating tasks and prioritizing workload among team members.
  • Directed design and execution of business transformation initiatives to drive performance, profit optimization and growth opportunities.
  • Established data-driven decision-making processes and implemented best practices in analytics to optimize performance across the organization.
  • Increased employee satisfaction, providing regular coaching and feedback sessions.
  • Led development of business operation processes and policies.

Director | Procurement Project Management

Baxter International
01.2023 - 05.2024
  • Executed direct materials Margin Improvement Projects, achieving significant savings by optimizing supplier contracts and reducing material costs
  • Led new product introduction initiatives for the Healthcare Systems and Technology segment, managing the process from supplier selection to product launch, ensuring alignment with business goals and timelines
  • Developed high-performing teams by providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities for professional growth.
  • Established a culture of continuous improvement by fostering open communication channels and empowering employees to voice their ideas.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.

Director | Site Procurement

HILL-ROM
09.2017 - 12.2022
  • Managed multiple supplier moves to minimize production impact as result of supplier bankruptcy. Moved multiple tools and coordinated part qualification thru close collaboration with new suppliers, quality, and engineering.
  • Negotiated contracts and supplier agreements, achieving consistent cost savings by optimizing procurement strategies and identifying cost-effective alternatives
  • Led the team through supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the uninterrupted supply of critical parts and materials for manufacturing hospital products
  • Collaborated with global procurement, engineering, operations, and quality teams to align sourcing strategies and ensure the efficient flow of materials while meeting operational and quality standards
  • Trained and guided team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.

Senior Manager | NPI Sourcing

HILL-ROM
04.2017 - 08.2017
  • Led cross-functional teams to achieve project milestones and deliver high-quality results.
  • Designed and executed procurement strategies aligned with company goals, shortening acquisition timelines and strengthening supplier partnerships for cutting-edge product innovation
  • Secured advantageous supplier agreements and pricing structures to maintain financial efficiency, ensuring product rollouts met budgetary requirements without compromising quality

Various Positions

Toyota Motor Manufacturing
06.1996 - 03.2017
  • As a professional in various roles, I gained diverse experience in procurement, risk management, supplier management, project management, and cross-functional collaboration.
  • Directed procurement strategies for new product introductions, refining supplier selection and agreements to secure cost reductions while ensuring quality and deadlines were met
  • Executed cost-reduction initiatives and strategic purchasing methods, consistently achieving annual savings across sourcing activities
  • Established and strengthened key supplier partnerships, fostering better collaboration, enhancing contract negotiations, and ensuring a steady and efficient supply chain
  • Coached and supported a team of Buyers and Managers, expanding procurement expertise, refining negotiation tactics, and enhancing operational effectiveness

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Economics and Business Administration

Hanover College

Skills

  • Cost analysis
  • Cost controls
  • Data analytics
  • Team building
  • Strategic sourcing
  • Contract Negotiation
  • Budget Management
  • Collaborative leadership
  • Supply Chain Optimization
  • Supplier relationship management
  • Strong communication skills

Timeline

Senior Director | Procurement Business Processes and Analytics

Baxter International
06.2024 - Current

Director | Procurement Project Management

Baxter International
01.2023 - 05.2024

Director | Site Procurement

HILL-ROM
09.2017 - 12.2022

Senior Manager | NPI Sourcing

HILL-ROM
04.2017 - 08.2017

Various Positions

Toyota Motor Manufacturing
06.1996 - 03.2017

Bachelor of Arts - Economics and Business Administration

Hanover College

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Melody Philhower