Purchasing and Negotiation Training

Robert Menard, Certified Purchasing Professional, Certified Professional Purchasing Consultant, Certified Green Purchasing Professional

Editor’s Note:  This interview of Mary Walker, MBA, CPP, CPPM, CPSM, CPSD, CGPP, DTM stems from our years long  relationship in which I have come to admire, benefit by, and utilize Mary’s talents.  I am fortunate to call her a friend and proud to write this story about her. This interview is presented in question and answer fashion in two parts.  This is Part 1.  Click here for Part 2. 

Menard          Mary, you have earned many professional designations, been published in Purchasing magazine, and served in many capacities in the profession.  How did this journey begin?  What made you choose purchasing as a profession? 

MW     I was working for Kroehler Mfg. Co,  which was the largest furniture manufacturer in the world.  A job came open for the Purchasing and Inventory Control Manager’s assistance.  I applied and got the job. 

Menard          Tell me about other positions you have held.

MW     The best was when I was working as the Hoist Coordinator for Briggs-Weaver. I learned so much from my suppliers that it was like a continual education process.  It is critical in the hoist and crane business that the customer receives what is needed to do his job and getting the specifications accurately is a must.  Also I have worked as a material handling specialist.  This was putting together the needed components to make one shelf unit or hundreds. 

Menard          What are some of the job functions you enjoy? 

MW     Purchasing functions are many and that is what makes the work so interesting.  Every day is different.  Dealing with suppliers was the most enjoyable.  Whether it was a problem, expediting or finding information, you got to know these people all across the country.  

Menard          What are some of the job functions you do not enjoy?  

MW     Expediting, would me the one.  At times, I have had someone that did this for me, but then you miss out on getting to know your suppliers. 

Menard          You have joined professional organizations and earned many professional designations.  One is the American Purchasing Society How long have you been a member and what do you like about the Society? 

MW     I joined the American Purchasing Society in 1999.  I like the Society’s focus on continuing education and training; it is part of my inquisitive nature.  It offers the best opportunities.  

Menard          Well, you certainly are interested in learning as demonstrated by your pursuit of professional designations.  Your latest is attainment of the Certified Green Purchasing Professional (CGPP) designation.  What motivated you to pursue the CGPP? 

MW     It was a challenge.  When I join an organization or enter something new.  I am not content at just being a member or one in a group.  I want to know all there is to know and get all there is to get out of my participation.  It was a door opener in to my profession that I needed to open. 

I have never been into going green or sustainability.  At home, if it was up to me, I would probably dump everything in the trash bin.  I was really clueless in this area and wanted to know more.  I had no idea of the details and have a very different outlook on these processes than I had before.  

online training in purchasing, negotiation, and sales

Menard         You mentioned education and training opportunities.  Have you taken any of the Society’s online courses? 

MW     Yes, many.  It is a great way to learn and to get continuing education hours.  The best is that you can do it at your own time.  You can get in and out of the course easily to compensate for the time breaks you have available.