MBA, Sourcing Associate, Strategic Sourcing, Novant Health
April 2024 – The Journal of Healthcare Contracting
As a sourcing associate for corporate purchase services for Novant Health, Kenya McConneaughey’s role is multifaceted. She manages a spectrum of the corporate purchase services portfolio, overseeing tasks such as drafting and redlining contract documents. McConneaughey takes the lead in supplier negotiations, which involves issuing RFPs, analyzing responses, and conducting evaluations. Serving as a liaison between Sourcing and Novant Health operational leaders, she also ensures seamless collaboration to meet business needs and implement changes related to vendor relationships and contracts.
“Additionally, I work closely with NH Procurement and Accounts Payable to ensure the efficiency of the procurement-to-pay cycle, meeting our contractual obligations,” she said. “Regular communication with key NH operational leaders and vendor partners is integral to achieving shared goals and fostering successful partnerships.”
One of the significant stress points for today’s supply chain teams is recovering from the impact of COVID-19. High prices for goods and services pose challenges in negotiating favorable terms, creating a demanding environment for procurement professionals, she said. Because of this, a recent success for McConneaughey and her team involved successfully implementing cost-saving measures in the procurement process. This led to increased efficiency and improved budget management.
Working behind the scenes
McConneaughey’s interest in healthcare is rooted in a deep-seated desire to give back to her community. While she operates on the business side and works behind the scenes, the satisfaction comes from knowing that she plays a crucial role in supporting families during their most challenging moments. “Helping individuals at their lowest points aligns with my passion for making a positive impact on people’s lives,” she said. “Even though my contributions may not be immediately visible, the knowledge that I am part of a system that positively impacts the well-being of individuals in the community is immensely fulfilling.”
McConneaughey said her motivation to succeed is fueled by the unwavering belief that failure is not an option. “This mindset propels me to overcome challenges and continually strive for excellence in my role.”
Organization support
Today’s supply chain teams need strong support from organizational leadership. “Clear communication, strategic guidance, and resource allocation are crucial to navigating challenges and maintaining a resilient and responsive healthcare supply chain,” McConneaughey said.