Category Management Services

Sophia has developed procurement frameworks, operations, and policies, establishing procurement teams from the ground up. She has also crafted strategic global procurement plans across a diverse range of categories, provided focused coaching for procurement leaders and category managers, and launched complex regional and global procurement operations in various fields, including manufacturing, construction, and business services. Her primary areas of expertise include procurement transformation and change management.

Sophia holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees from the University of Pittsburgh: one in Germanic History and Language, and the other in Communications Rhetoric, alongside a diploma in European Studies. She has received the prestigious FedEx Five Star Service award for outstanding achievements in innovation, collaboration, efficiency, and profitability during the fiscal year, as well as the Siemens Brava award. Sophia enjoys traveling, running marathons, spending time with family and friends, and exploring new hobbies, such as learning to play the violin.

James Miller is an experienced consulting manager with over 20 years in procurement and sourcing. He is widely respected for implementing cost-saving initiatives, building strong partnerships with stakeholders, and structuring supplier contracts that align with organizational policies and strategic plans.

Before taking on major client projects, James directed contract negotiations and managed procurement operations for top-tier engineering, procurement, and construction companies. His expertise covers sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, environmental services, and facility management. Currently, he leads the comprehensive source-to-pay process across a variety of direct and indirect goods and services.

James earned his master’s degree from the University of Southern California and his bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley, with further education at SJSU, UCLA, and Stanford University. Residing in Austin, Texas, James spends his free time hiking, playing golf, swimming, and volunteering in financial literacy programs.

Michael Turner is a seasoned supply chain management expert with two decades of experience in consulting and various industries, including healthcare, technology, and renewable energy. Michael’s core skills encompass global category management for direct and indirect sourcing, strategic negotiations, supplier development, and operational efficiency improvements.

Michael has successfully led multiple initiatives for clients, ranging from spend analysis and category management to strategic sourcing, contract management, and process optimization. His projects consistently result in streamlined operations, value generation, and significant cost reductions. Michael has a unique ability to turn strategic objectives into action, encouraging team collaboration and aligned execution.

Michael holds a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management from Michigan State University and is certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt. In his personal life, he enjoys creating digital art, exploring local galleries, and attending classic car shows with his wife and son in Austin, Texas.

Daniel Brooks is a seasoned professional in procurement and supply chain management with over a decade of experience. His background spans both industry and consulting roles, working with companies across various sectors to enhance business performance and deliver significant cost efficiencies through comprehensive procurement strategies.

Daniel began his career building expertise within the retail, consumer goods, and manufacturing industries before transitioning to procurement consulting. In his consulting role, he has supported clients in fields such as healthcare, energy, aerospace, and financial services, focusing on strategic sourcing, merger integration, analytics, change management, process improvement, and procurement transformation.

Daniel earned his bachelor’s degree in supply chain management from Michigan State University. Based in Chicago, he enjoys cycling along the lakefront, coaching youth soccer, volunteering at local food banks, and exploring new travel destinations in his free time.