Introduction: Define ”leadership” and develop personal leadership criteria and beliefs

Objective 1:  Develop and leverage strategic relationships from a contracting leader’s unique perspective—build a plan to:

• Identify critical counterparts and key influencers,
• Build trust and credibility,
• Establish partnerships, and
• Leverage relationships to create solutions.

Objective 2: Build a reputation as a solution-maker within your organization—build a plan to:

• Take a broader, solution-oriented approach to challenges;
• Add value through your technical knowledge and career skills; and
• Connect your work to the mission.

Objective 3: Communicate to get results—build a plan to:

• Craft a results-driven message,
• Refine your message to connect with the audience, and
• Establish presence and project confidence.

Objective 4: Empower and engage a team of contract managers—build a plan to:

• Establish a shared team vision,
• Create a culture of engagement, and
• Build up other emerging leaders.

Heidi Timmerman is currently an independent consultant supporting commercial and government contractor clients.  She has over 20 years’ experience in procurement, contracts, operations, and supply chain management.  For close to a decade, Heidi served as the director of Procurement & Contracts Administration (PCA) at Oak Ridge Associated Universities (ORAU); where she was responsible for customer contracting, strategic partnership projects, real estate, purchase-card administration, all procurement services, contracting systems, and ORAU’s small business program. In the private sector, she served as vice president of supply chain operations of IdleAire; where she was responsible for product and service support of 131 nationwide locations for this technology service start-up.  Heidi also served as director of procurement, store services and contracts management, for Goody’s Family Clothing. Prior to that, she was a commodity champion and senior buyer/planner for manufacturer Chatsworth Products, Inc. In addition to her government contracting and commercial experience, Heid served in the U.S. Marine Corps as military police officer (Captain). She is a past president and active leader in the East Tennessee Chapter of NCMA.  Heidi has her MBA, C.P.M., and Masters Certificate in Government Contracting from George Washington University in addition to CPCM and Fellow with NCMA.