Patrick Fairchild

Background

About Patrick Fairchild

I am an experienced procurement leader with a strong background in strategic sourcing, supplier management, and cost optimization. My expertise spans MRO procurement, contract negotiations, inventory control, and capital project purchasing, all aimed at enhancing operational efficiency. I have a proven track record of leading RFQs, implementing vendor-managed inventory programs, and driving multimillion-dollar savings through data-driven procurement strategies. I take a proactive approach to streamlining procurement processes by automating workflows and ensuring compliance with corporate and ESG standards. With extensive experience in cross-functional collaboration, supply chain management, and risk mitigation, I support business objectives while optimizing overall performance. As a trusted mediator and problem solver, I excel at building and maintaining professional relationships at all organizational levels, ensuring smooth communication and successful outcomes. Some key highlights of my career include:*Optimized barge operations by conducting an extensive RFQ process, evaluating multiple options, and procuring a highly efficient, 11-year-old boat, ultimately saving under the capital budget.*Led restart of Line 4 at Hawesville, overseeing raw material procurement and contractor spending, delivering the 144-pot project on time and within budget, enabling Century Aluminum to capitalize on rising LME prices and boost profitability.*Centralized MRO procurement by assessing four national suppliers, selecting Grainger, and negotiating the construction of 15 new store rooms, resulting in standardized inventory management and enhanced operational efficiency.*Drove $15M in first-year savings by consolidating MRO purchasing, reducing FTE costs, cutting spending by 8% at top sites, and implementing vending solutions to improve safety and prevent theft across Berry Global facilities.*Expanded supplier base by collaborating with sales and engineering to identify and qualify three alternative colorant suppliers, breaking Berry Global's sole-source dependency and creating a competitive pricing environment.*Achieved $1.2M in savings within the first year through price negotiations, reduced scrap by 10%, and optimized inventory management by negotiating a consignment program, lowering days of supply.*Improved supplier relationships with bi-yearly face-to-face evaluations, capturing performance data for quantifiable communication and driving cost avoidance through competitive scoring on price, service, and delivery.