NADINE NICOLAS
431-***-**** · ************@*****.*** · linkedin.com/in/nadine-nicolas
Strategic Procurement Specialist
Optimizing Processes Driving Cost Efficiencies Leading Change Management Initiatives Professional Summary
Dynamic and results-driven procurement specialist with over a decade of experience leading complex sourcing projects across international and domestic operations. Proven track record of achieving cost savings over $10M through strategic negotiations and efficient CAPEX management. Adept in SAP, JDE, and Power BI with a collaborative mindset and a bilingual fluency in English and French. Known for cultivating supplier relationships and navigating high-stakes procurement environments with confidence and precision. Core Competencies & Technical Tools
• Procurement & Strategy: Bid Management · Contract Negotiation · Vendor Relations
• Systems & Tools: SAP (Advanced) · MS Office (Advanced) · JDE (Advanced) · Power BI (Intermediate)
• Operations: Supply Chain Coordination · CAPEX Management · RFx Analysis · Change Enablement
• Communication: Bilingual (English / French) · Team Collaboration · Time Management Professional Experience
Procurement Specialist / CAPEX Analyst
Rio Tinto – Iron Ore Company of Canada AB, QC, NL & Madagascar 2020 – 2025
• Led sourcing projects exceeding $2M, producing bid packages, commercial analyses, and supplier awards.
• Delivered $10M+ in cost savings through budget discipline and strategic vendor negotiations.
• Completed international procurement assignment in Madagascar, overcoming logistical challenges.
• Built supplier tracking databases; facilitated evaluation matrix reviews and bid clarification meetings.
• Collaborated with engineers and vendors to resolve bid inquiries and finalize contract awards. Procurement Specialist
Lafarge Canada Inc. Edmonton & Exshaw, AB 2018 – 2020
• Managed procurement for cement, aggregates, and ready-mix product lines per strategic guidelines.
• Generated $500K+ in savings by optimizing vendor relationships and rate negotiations.
• Developed national and provincial contracts; ensured compliance and full execution.
• Tracked savings via Google Drive; coordinated with Procurement and Operations managers.
• Oversaw internal controls to align with industry standards and legal requirements. Manufacturing Analyst
Lafarge Canada Inc. Edmonton & Exshaw, AB 2015 – 2018
• Acted as SAP P2P Key-User for West Canada Cement post-successful rollout of Project Helix.
• Conducted user training across sites, increasing system efficiency and reducing errors.
• Analyzed vendor RFx submissions using Bravo platform; tracked raw material flows via ERP.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams (AP, Vendor Master, Procurement) to resolve discrepancies. Accounting Assistant
Rockies Heli Tours Canada Inc. Canmore, AB 2014 – 2015
• Produced financial reports, reconciliations, and general ledger entries.
• Supported budgeting and planning during operational strategy meetings. Owner / Operator
Bullseye Bikes Spruce Grove, AB 2010 – 2013
• Built and operated a retail sporting goods business with strategic regional growth planning.
• Managed payroll, taxation, and vendor accounts; recruited and mentored team members. Education & Certifications
• Bachelor of Science (BSc) – Honors with Great Distinction, University of Saskatchewan
• CMA Accounting Program – Completed Level 4, Grant MacEwan College
• Project Management Certificate Program – Modules 1 & 2, MRU, Calgary
• Full Life Insurance Agent License – LLQP, Advocis
• ENS Advanced Negotiation & Influencing Program – Level 3 Awards & Athletic Achievements
Elite Endurance Athlete — multiple gold and bronze medals in competitive multisport events: XTERRA World Triathlon Championships · Ski-to-Sea Relay · Trail Runs · GWN Aquabike · 24-Hour MTB Recognized by Triathlon Canada with the Cross Triathlon Excellence Award.