Director of Strategic Sourcing
Henry Ford Health
Detroit, MI
Please describe your career at Henry Ford Health.
I started January 2019 as the contract sourcing specialist in support of construction and facilities. In addition to the assigned responsibilities of the role, I began to develop and implement new processes and strategies to gain efficiencies in the construction sourcing space while ensuring Henry Ford Health made sound decisions. With this improved process, I was also able to efficiently manage suppliers and align strategic relationships to benefit the organization. In September 2022, I became director of strategic sourcing for construction and facilities. In my tenure at Henry Ford Health, I have been able to lead the sourcing of billions of dollars in construction and facilities projects.
What interested you about a career in healthcare?
The far reaching touch into the community and the impact that the industry has. I am driven by solving problems and making things better and that is what I see as the core of healthcare.
What do you like about working in the healthcare supply chain? Was it a position you sought, or found out about once you began working in the field?
I like that supply chain has a huge impact on patient care and the community it serves. I am not particularly motivated to be in the industry due to a particular position but because of the growth and impact that is possible, I hope to be a senior executive in the field one day.
In what ways has the supply chain changed over the last 2-3 years from your perspective?
The need to be proactive with the needs of stakeholders and the organization as a whole has become more prominent, and the need to push harder for innovative systems and approaches.
What are some of the big challenges your supply chain team is facing as we head into 2023?
Maintaining timely delivery of products and services. Due to the uncertainty of the global supply chain that still exists, it makes it challenging to properly prepare for solutions to make improvements.
What’s the most rewarding project you’ve worked on recently?
Destination Grand is an approximately 1.2 million-square-foot phase hospital replacement project that will also be accompanied by several additional auxiliary buildings that will support the hospital campus. I was able to be one of the instrumental team members to get the project off the ground. To date, I am still heavily involved in the continued development of the project.
Does your organization have a formal or informal leadership development plan? Have you had any mentors that have provided guidance?
My organization does offer leadership development plans. I have had mentors outside of Henry Ford Health that have provided guidance in developing my change management tactics and how to approach tough situations.