Procurement restructures in step toward simplifying procurement processes

Procurement and Payment Services has restructured its organization in a step toward fulfilling a strategic initiative to simplify the procure-to-pay process. The three new functional areas are Campus Services, Supplier Services, and Payment Services. With these changes in place, Procurement can center on improving customer service, increasing oversight of supplier relationships, and realizing efficiencies in its processes, ultimately bringing better procurement services and value to its customers.

• Campus Services is led by Mike Winters and focus on improving procurement transaction processes, bidding process administration, training resources, and customer service.
• Supplier Services is led by Cindy Jefferson and focus on leveraging Cornell’s considerable buying power to establish better supplier relationships and negotiate more valuable agreements, while meeting the university’s goals for diverse and sustainable purchasing practices.
• Payment Services is led by Mary Flaherty and focus on adopting best payment practices to reduce risks and increase efficiency, and on seeking solutions for simpler vendor registration.

This effort is part of a Division of Financial Affairs strategic initiative to reimagine the procurement process. “The vision of Procurement and Payment Services is to provide a world-class supply management organization in support of the university’s mission by creating value through strategic supplier relationships, efficient processes, and professional service,” says Senior Director Thomas Romantic. “We are committed to providing excellent customer service and improving the procurement process from start to finish.” During the initiative, Procurement will solicit campus input through various means, including meeting with campus customers.

For more information on the Procurement Reimagining initiative, see the article Procurement establishes committee to reimagine procurement.

If you are not satisfied with the service you receive or have suggestions to improve procurement and payment processes, contact one of these team leaders:

• Tom Romantic, Senior Director: twr2@cornell.edu
• Mike Winters, Campus Services: mgw3@cornell.edu
• Cindy Jefferson, Supplier Services: cj242@cornell.edu
• Mary Flaherty, Payment Services: mls398@cornell.edu