Navigating Procurement! Featured Guest: Nikki Baird, Senior Director Procurement at Tadano Mantis

Getting the Inside Scoop on Procurement and Supply Chain Challenges in Manufacturing – Featuring Nikki BairdJoin us as we chat with Nikki Baird, Senior Director of Procurement at Tadano Mantis, about her journey into manufacturing, the evolving role of supply chain management, and how women bring unique strengths to the industry. Discover practical insights on managing supply chain disruptions, fostering diverse leadership, and navigating work-life balance in manufacturing.Main Topics Covered:Nikki’s journey from medical administration to manufacturing procurementImpact of supply chain disruptions, tariffs, and COVID-19 on procurement strategiesBuilding and maintaining vendor relationships post-pandemicThe unique strengths women bring to procurement and manufacturingWork-life balance evolution for women in manufacturingTips for women aspiring to enter procurement and manufacturing careersThe importance of confidence and negotiation skills for women in the industryThe excitement of seeing products like cranes come to life and the power of team collaborationTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Nikki Baird and her journey into procurement02:45 - Daily challenges faced in procurement and managing shortages04:47 - How COVID-19 and tariffs have reshaped supply chains07:11 - Surprising aspects of supply chain management and vendor relationships08:03 - Women’s experience and growth in manufacturing leadership09:59 - Overcoming gender stereotypes and building confidence at work11:18 - How engineers and procurement teams can better collaborate12:26 - Strengths women bring to manufacturing and procurement15:00 - Work-life balance and the evolution of flexibility during COVID16:10 - Advice for women and beginners entering procurement and manufacturing18:36 - Daily motivations and the satisfaction of team success and product creation21:21 - Lessons from mentorship and trusting your instincts22:32 - Empowering women in manufacturing through confidence and shared experiences23:50 - Final thoughts: encouraging more women to consider careers in manufacturingThis episode emphasizes how resilience, relationship-building, and confidence are vital for success in manufacturing procurement, especially for women. Nikki shares practical advice, personal stories, and encouragement to inspire the next generation of supply chain leaders.