Purchasing Peer Network
Chair: Cindy Crane, Purchasing Manager, Volunteers of America
Staff contact – Anna Mayo
About the network
The Purchasing Peer Network is a forum for National Assembly members with major responsibility in large-volume purchasing and materials management. The group
shares their expertise and challenges on a wide range of supply chain issues including minority and women-owned suppliers, in-house vs. third-party purchasing,
spend consolidation and group buys, disaster supplies and food, e-purchasing systems, and appliance vendors. A signed nondisclosure agreement is required so
pricing and other sourcing information can be shared in confidence among the participants.
Most Recent Meeting
April 19, 2011
Next Meeting
October 19, 2011
Meetings
The Purchasing Peer Network meets twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. The location varies and is usually hosted by a participant. Volunteers of
America has hosted in Alexandria Virginia and the American Red Cross in Charlotte, North Carolina. Meetings usually run from 10-3.
Recent Topics
- Supply Chain Purchasing Challenges
- Strategies for Saving & Cutting Costs
- Expanding National Contracts to Affiliate Networks
- Utilizing Tax Exemption Opportunities State by State (gas, heating fuel, etc.)
- Purchasing/Sourcing Best Practices
- Technology’s Role in Procurement
- Collaboration Opportunities
Communications
The National Assembly is responsible for attendance and agenda information. Val Castenada, Director of Strategic Sourcing for the YMCA, is the current network
chairman. For further information contact: amayo@nassembly.org.