Penny Hickerson
731-***-**** *****.***********@*****.***
Professional Summary
Results-driven Procurement and Customer Success Specialist with 20+ years of progressive experience in supply chain management, strategic sourcing, vendor negotiation, inventory control, and client account management. Proven ability to drive cost reductions, improve operational efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences. Proficient in ERP systems, CRM platforms (Salesforce, Zendesk), and procurement software. Excels in both remote and on-site environments, with a track record of exceeding performance.
Key Skills & Competencies
Strategic Sourcing
Vendor Management
Contract Negotiation & Compliance (ITAR, NDA, SLA)
ERP & MRP Systems
Customer Relationship Management (Salesforce, Zendesk, CRM tools)
Inventory Management
Demand Forecasting
Order Fulfillment
Data Analysis, Cost Reduction, & Spend Optimization
Purchase Order (PO) Processing & Invoice Reconciliation
Supply Chain Optimization & Logistics Coordination
Team Leadership, Cross-Functional Collaboration & Remote Team Management
Communication Platforms (Zoom, Google Meet, Slack, Microsoft Teams)
Time Management, Prioritization, and Multi-tasking
Strong Math & Analytical Problem Solving
Detail-Oriented & Process Improvement Initiatives
Professional Experience
Xometry – Remote
Customer Success Specialist
Feb 2022 – May 2024
Managed high-value enterprise accounts during the interim period prior to assignment to a dedicated account manager.
Conducted Zoom-based client meetings.
Processed quotes and negotiated order terms, upselling relevant products and solutions.
Consistently met or exceeded all key performance indicators (KPIs) on a monthly basis to qualify for performance-based bonuses
Maintained compliance with ITAR standards and internal quality protocols.
Supplies Sourcing Coordinator
Oct 2019 – Feb 2022
Led vendor sourcing initiatives, successfully onboarding new suppliers and negotiating pricing/contracts.
Reduced procurement costs through vendor consolidation and optimized freight terms.
Streamlined inventory replenishment workflows, enhancing just-in-time (JIT) stock availability.
Kay Jewelers – Jackson, TN
Jewelry Sales Consultant
Oct 2013 – Aug 2020
Delivered personalized customer service, exceeding monthly sales targets and conversion rates.
Accurately processed sales transactions and managed product returns.
Collaborated with team to support seasonal promotions and upsell financing plans.
MIA Seating – TN
Purchasing Manager
Feb 2018 – Jun 2019
Oversaw full-cycle procurement of raw materials, ensuring uninterrupted production supply.
Negotiated with suppliers to reduce costs by 12% while improving delivery timelines.
Managed inventory levels, performed PO reconciliations, and resolved invoice discrepancies.
Manpower Professional – General Cable
Materials Buyer/Planner
Oct 2016 – Feb 2017
Aligned purchasing activities with production schedules to ensure material availability.
Conducted inventory audits, maintained accurate MRP data, and reduced stockouts.
Turtle & Hughes Integrated Supply
Senior Buyer
Mar 2015 – Jun 2015
Reduced aged inventory and eliminated non-moving items through strategic sourcing reviews.
Trained new procurement staff and optimized supplier communication processes.
Power & Control Resources
Inside Sales Representative
Oct 2013 – Dec 2014
Managed B2B customer accounts, provided quotes, and tracked sales orders.
Coordinated repair and return processes and assisted with collections.
Martin Plant Services
Site Manager (MRO Purchasing & Inventory Control)
Dec 2008 – Sep 2013
Managed MRO purchasing for 13,000+ SKUs, achieving 18% inventory reduction over two years.
Directed capital project procurement, vendor compliance, and budget tracking.
Supervised site operations, including payroll, HR, training, and supplier aud
Education
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration
University of Tennessee
Associate of Science in Accounting
Jackson State Community College