TAMMY MAHLER
Columbia
Summary
Procurement leader with a strong background in contract negotiation and supplier management, delivering an 18% cost reduction at Fender Musical Instruments Corp. Expertise in ERP systems integration and cross-functional collaboration, enhancing supply chain efficiency and driving strategic initiatives. Demonstrated success in inventory optimization and team development, contributing to operational excellence.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Purchasing Manager
Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (PreSonus Audio Electronics Division)
Baton Rouge
05.2011 - 08.2025
- Directed procurement operations for global teams, managing sourcing, negotiations, and vendor contracts for multi-million-dollar product lines.
- Supervised and trained procurement staff, overseeing workload management and cross-training to boost team efficiency.
- Executed sourcing strategies aligned with departmental goals, ensuring compliance with company standards and supplier certifications.
- Conducted supplier performance reviews and spend analyses to identify improvement and cost-reduction opportunities.
- Managed RFPs/RFQs and vendor selection processes for high-quality, cost-effective suppliers, maintaining business continuity.
- Collaborated with engineering, logistics, and finance to ensure timely materials availability and adherence to project schedules.
- Led ERP data management initiatives enhancing visibility, audit readiness, and reporting accuracy.
- Achieved 18%-25% year-over-year cost reduction through strategic supplier negotiations.
Operations Manager
ProSource Wholesale Floorcovering
New Orleans
04.2007 - 05.2011
- Enhanced inventory management and optimized working capital through improved demand planning.
- Through strategic purchasing, total ownership cost held constant two and a half years longer than competitors.
- Reduced excess inventory from $10 million to $750,000 over a 2-year period through partnerships with brokers and other contract manufacturers.
- Managed purchasing and logistics for regional operations, including contract negotiations, order tracking, and supplier coordination.
- Analyzed costs and vendor performance to improve spend efficiency and service reliability.
- Oversaw day-to-day operations and project timelines while maintaining strong client and vendor relationships.
- Maintained a 99.9% inventory accuracy.
- Implemented training programs for staff, fostering skill development and performance improvements.
- Developed strategic initiatives to elevate customer satisfaction and loyalty within the branch.
- Coordinated with upper management to align branch goals with overall organizational objectives.
- Monitored compliance with company policies, ensuring consistent adherence across all operational activities.
- Developed strong relationships with clients, resulting in increased loyalty and repeat business.
Purchasing Specialist
Hospital Corporation of America, HCA
Covington
01.2005 - 04.2007
- Managed procurement processes for medical supplies, ensuring timely availability and compliance with healthcare standards.
- Developed and maintained vendor relationships to negotiate favorable terms and enhance supply chain efficiency.
- Analyzed purchase orders and inventory levels to optimize stock management and reduce waste.
- Led cross-functional teams in implementing strategic sourcing initiatives, driving cost savings for hospital operations.
- Maintained documentation for all purchases.
- Collaborated with internal departments to identify and manage demand for material and services.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Music Education
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, LASkills
- Contract negotiation
- Supplier management
- Spend analysis
- Procurement strategy
- ERP systems integration
- Inventory optimization
- Cost reduction initiatives
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Purchase order management
- Vendor sourcing
- Global sourcing
- Pricing structures
- Category management
- Total cost of ownership
- Staff management
- Staff training and development
Timeline
Purchasing Manager
Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (PreSonus Audio Electronics Division)
05.2011 - 08.2025
Operations Manager
ProSource Wholesale Floorcovering
04.2007 - 05.2011
Purchasing Specialist
Hospital Corporation of America, HCA
01.2005 - 04.2007
Some College (No Degree) - Music Education
Southeastern Louisiana University