John Merendino

About John Merendino

Leverages over two decades in the foodservice industry and has demonstrated a profound commitment to team spirit and organizational goals. Known for pioneering continuous improvement initiatives and excelling in unlocking new value streams and differentiating offerings for both members and suppliers through innovative strategies.* A proactive contributor to organizational success, leveraging exceptional skills in continuous improvement and relationshipbuilding. An innovative problem-solver and value creator who fosters strong bonds with stakeholders and drives program enhancement.* Distinguished by a passion for tackling both intricate and routine challenges with inventive solutions. A dynamic and results-oriented demeanor has facilitated a journey of escalating responsibilities, underscored by a dedication to process optimization and team empowerment.Areas of Expertise:* Strategic Planning & Execution* Operational Leadership & Management* Stakeholder Engagement & Collaboration* Customer Satisfaction & Engagement* Competency-Based Training/Assessment* Contract Management & GrowthSelected Career Achievements:* Initiated Premier, Inc.\'s Foodservice program enhancement through strategic development and expansion. Focused on operational excellence, leveraged key distributor partnerships to boost system efficiency and performance. Currently developing metrics for operational efficiencies, including member performance tracking with risk factors to foresee potential departures, alongside a tracking system for various internal processes.* Oversaw a diverse portfolio valued at $9B, spanning 70 product categories and 440 contracts. Achieved significant double-digit cost savings, with rates ranging from single digits to over 50%, through meticulous RFP processes that ensured continuous improvement over previous contracts. Implemented strategic supplier incentives for limited-time-offer promotions, resulting in a 20% increase in such offers, enhancing value and savings. Addressed critical portfolio gaps, adding $120M in member volume and boosting gross revenue by approximately $3.6M, without compromising on confidentiality of sensitive metrics.Email me at j••••••••@gmail.com or call me at (71••••••70.

Experience

1. Vice President, Strategy & Operations

   Premier Inc.

   Jan 2023 — Present

   This role focuses on strategic transformation and operational readiness, driven by a philosophy of continuous improvement and efficiency optimization. Leadership in this position entails a broad mandate to innovate processes, technology, and team dynamics, ensuring the organization is primed for future challenges and opportunities.* Established forward-looking strategies ensuring organizational readiness and adaptability for the next 5-10 years, embodying a continuous improvement ethos.* Devised and implemented processes for all team activities, evaluating necessity and efficiency to optimize operations.* Optimized team structure and role allocations to ensure peak utilization of time and resources.* Identified and addressed technology gaps through internal development or external partnerships, fostering innovation.* Amplified external brand image, leveraging social media, digital member communications, and presence in tradeshows/associations to clarify value proposition to members and suppliers.* Directed the CMA Management Team, Finance Director, and data resources, clarifying roles and spearheading member-facing events including logistics and content creation.* Leading pivotal projects on transitioning to a new data management model and modernizing financial processes, spanning 1-3 years, to enhance operational efficiency and financial accuracy.

Education

• Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania

  Bachelor's degree

• Wake Forest University - Babcock Graduate School of Management

  MBA