By Jackie Osti, Wellington County
This is a reflection on the career journey of a dedicated public procurement professional. With over twenty years of experience at the County of Wellington in southern Ontario, she has grown from a Purchasing Clerk into the role of Manager of Purchasing and Risk Management Services.
First and foremost, let me say what a great honour it is to be asked to be featured in the spotlight section of the Caveat Emptor.
I never envisioned myself in this career. Twenty years ago, I applied for a Purchasing Clerk position with the County of Wellington (“County”) and here I am today, Manager of Purchasing and Risk Management Services.
My former boss (Mark Bolzon) was the catalyst for inspiring me to grow in this profession. Mark, being the President of OPBA, gave me no choice but to get involved with the OPBA board (“board”)! No sooner was I attending OPBA meetings and taking the Principles Courses did Michelle Palmer lassoed me into running the Buyers Meetings! Saying “no” to Michelle really wasn’t an option! I am so grateful to so many people for pushing me out of my comfort zone. I highly recommend this approach to growing your career.
Serving on the Board was instrumental in my career advancement. Here is a condensed look back on a few key experiences that shaped my career in this dynamic ever-evolving profession.
I was invited to be a panelist to speak about contractor prequalification. Along with municipal planners, architects, and general contractors, I presented our perspectives to an audience of colleagues and industry experts. This forum of open discussion and connection enriched my understanding on how we can work together to improve procurement processes and build strong partnerships.
I assumed the role of OPBA Conference Chair at the start of COVID, which sent us kicking and screaming into a new virtual reality! A huge thank you and shout-out to the amazing people on the conference committee – Roz, Marie, Sharon, Sherri, and Serena. We delivered two very successful virtual conferences, and this makes me feel incredibly proud. Emerging from those challenging times, the in-person 2023 OPBA Conference in Niagara Falls was my last hurrah and an absolute thrill. This experience taught me many new skills and reinforced the importance of teamwork and good communication.
Procurement is about building relationships, networking and continuous learning through experience and education. How lucky we are to have so many educational resources at our disposal through OPBA and NIGP. I fast-tracked my CPPB certification in 2008 and was able to attend two of the courses in Florida. My team recently attended an Indigenous Procurement lunch and learn to gain a better understanding of how we can break down barriers and create opportunities to work with smaller businesses. My eagerness to keep learning, even as I approach retirement, has been a driving factor in the happiness I feel doing this job.
When I stepped into a management role, I was laser-focused on making impactful changes that would lead to efficiencies and leading-edge practices. I feel that I have accomplished this goal and more. So much has changed over the past 20 years, and being adaptable and flexible is the key to survival. Having strong procurement policies makes for good optics with our vendor community and taxpayers.
Procurement professionals must remain vigilant in ensuring compliance with a wide range of legislation, including construction, accessibility, Buy Ontario, and occupational health and safety requirements. Our expertise is a valuable asset to our agencies.
OPBA’s leadership continues to elevate the value and importance of procurement. Procurement professionals play a critical role in managing public funds and supporting open, fair and transparent procurement processes.
Spotlight Q&A
What is one accomplishment or project you’re most proud of?
Stepping outside of traditional Design-Bid-Build models for large construction projects and adopting the use of the Construction Management model. This approach was a huge leap of faith for the County as we were stuck in a very rigid format for construction projects. Using the CM model allowed much more flexibility and collaboration in the design phase of the project and created a shared responsibility between the Owner, design consultant and contractor, especially when recognizing cost saving initiatives and opportunities to think outside the box from an otherwise rigid scope of work.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned during your career?
The biggest lesson I have learned is to always “take a step back” before taking a position on politically motivated issues. I have learned that being armed with the right information and discussing the issue openly with all the stakeholders is key to making good decisions. Also, keep an open mind and don’t take things personally.
What will you miss most about your colleagues?
My colleagues in procurement are very special. We all want to help each other and know how to work hard and have fun too. The support and mentorship I have received over these past years has been beyond amazing.
What advice would you give someone just starting out?
Take the principles courses, don’t be afraid to ask questions, get involved with the board and find a mentor.
If you had a theme song for your career, what would it be?
Wilson-Phillips “Hold On”
What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
Spending time with my family, golfing, cycling, reading and travelling.
What will be your perfect “retirement morning”?
Not waking up to the alarm clock! Easing into the day on my own schedule. Freedom to pick and choose what I do.
Coffee or tea?
Coffee
Morning person or night owl?
Morning
Best decade:
’70s, ’80s, ’90s, or 2000s?