Introducing UVAFinance is a recurring blog feature created to introduce our team to our team, a couple of members at a time. Every other week, we present readers with a team member or two to get to know.
Note: Garrett and Kellyn are both Morrises, but are not related ;)
Resource: UVAFinance by Department
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Garrett Morris, Senior Sourcing Specialist
Garrett Morris
What do you do as Senior Sourcing Specialist?
We are responsible for identifying and securing optimal suppliers, negotiating favorable terms with our clients, ensuring product and service quality, and managing key supplier and internal stakeholder relationships to support the University's procurement objectives.
Who do you work with regularly?
I work with numerous departments all across Grounds, but most frequently, I work with the Athletics department and University Communications.
What seasons are busiest, or what rhythms exist in your job?
Every season feels like a busy one, but RFPs (Requests for Proposals) consistently demand more of my time and attention. When I'm not focused on those RFPs, I dedicate my efforts to renewing contracts, reviewing vendor agreements, reviewing and approving departmental orders, and continuously identifying opportunities for improvement within our department.
What might surprise people about the work you do/this role/your department or area?
I believe people don't always realize all of the different hats a Senior Sourcing Specialist/Buyer has to wear. This role extends beyond simply procuring goods and services at the best price; it involves playing a crucial role in strategic decision-making by managing risk, advancing sustainability initiatives, and implementing cost-saving strategies, all of which are essential to the long-term success of the University.
What do you like best about working in UVAFinance?
After a decade of experience with James Madison University Athletics, I have enjoyed continuing my work within a collegiate athletic program here at UVA. I aim to continue to leverage my expertise and experiences to serve as a strong advocate for UVAFinance, positioning it as a valuable partner to UVA Athletics.
How do you connect your work with the UVAFinance Values?
As a Senior Sourcing Specialist, I align with UVAFinance's values by fostering collaborative relationships with departments, anticipating their needs, and driving continuous improvement through innovative sourcing strategies. I ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and transparency of procurement data and contractual updates, reinforcing trust in Procurement's decisions. Additionally, I am committed to promoting diversity by actively seeking equitable and inclusive supplier relationships, and supporting my department's dedication to Small-, Women-, and Minority-owned businesses (SWaM).
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| Kellyn Morris |
Kellyn Morris, User Success Associate
What do you do as a User Success Associate?
I am a User Success Associate in the Finance Solution Center better known as AskFinance, so my role is all about helping other people with questions and issues.Who do you work with regularly?
We work with all stakeholders and suppliers for UVA.What seasons are busiest, or what rhythms exist in your job?
I would say the busiest time of year for us is Tax Season and Fiscal Year-End. We are the front line for all tax inquiries for UVA. We handle Payroll inquiries for W-2s, 1099 forms for suppliers, and 1042-S forms for foreign students and employees. We also handle most inquiries regarding year-end practices. However, on a day-to-day basis, most of our inquiries involve Procurement.What might surprise people about the work you do/this role/your department or area?
People may not fully understand that we handle all inquiries for the UVAFinance departments, so we have widespread knowledge about many different areas. Most of our knowledge comes from the knowledge base created by Joey (our Manager) and the team.What do you like best about working in UVAFinance?
What is there not to like? I love the people I work with in Finance. The appreciation I feel from my team and my manager (Joey Carls) makes me love what I do.How do you connect your work with the UVAFinance Values?
The work my team and I do aligns with every single UVA Finance Value. We try our best to deliver the best service and support to our customers. We are collaborative partners within our team and with the departments within Finance. Joey makes sure we are delivering accurate and reliable information by creating a knowledge base for us. We live it day in and day out.