Lauren Smith, Strategic Procurement Manager
Hi, I’m Lauren! I was born in England and now a proud resident and soon to be Canadian!
I am in my 30s now and more proud of who I am than ever. One thing I wish I had known when I was younger is that it is a joy to sign up to be a lifelong learner. You don’t have to know everything now.
Take your time and enjoy the process, not just the goal!
I have had many positions since starting my career including; File Clerk, Sales Administrator, Bakery Assistant, Retail Worker, Hotel Cleaner, Personal Assistant, Contracts Co-ordinator, Contracts Manager, Assistant Procurement Manager, Procurement Process Manager and now, Strategic Procurement Manager. All of these roles have taught me something different both about business and about myself and I am grateful for all of the experience I have gained.
Some of the highlights of my professional journey are; having the ability to travel the United Kingdom for work and seeing some great places, being recognised for making a tough decision by way of a promotion, having some amazing leaders who gave me the space to make my own way and achievements. Some of the highlights of my personal journey are; travelling Asia and North America, the amazing people in my life, finding wakeboarding, getting to know myself, moving to Canada and dogs!
Something that I take very seriously in my life is self-care and self-compassion. I make sure that I take time for myself, though this has not been an easy journey.
Taking time for myself means things like; going to the gym (which is my passion), going wakeboarding and just generally being on or near the water, spending time with my friends, meditating, taking myself on a ‘date’, and being compassionate with myself when I am going through a rough time. I also know that it is important to reach out for help when you need it.
Couple of fun facts – I also have a Personal Training qualification and I have flown a plane.
Remember to always be yourself, to always be open and know that you can learn something from anyone or anything, and as I said before – enjoy the process. This is your journey and you get to decide.
Look forward to speaking with you all!
“Take your time and enjoy the process, not just the goal!”
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