Microsoft Office incl Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint
Kaitlin Brown
Purchasing Assistant
Berlin
Summary
With over 15 years in operational roles, I specialize in connecting people and processes to optimize procurement, vendor management, and accurate financial record-keeping. Skilled in purchase order management, invoice reconciliation, and contract negotiation, I ensure smooth supply chain operations while maintaining budget compliance and thorough documentation. My collaborative approach, strong analytical mindset, and attention to detail support efficient workflows and strategic decision-making. Driven by clear communication and adaptability, I am ready to contribute to your team’s success by streamlining operational processes and building strong partnerships.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
2
2
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
Purchasing Assistant
Emp BIOTECH GmbH
05.2024 - Current
- Create and manage purchase orders with accuracy, ensuring timely follow-up with suppliers to confirm receipt and delivery schedules
- Monitor and coordinate shipment timelines, proactively managing deadlines and cancellation dates
- Foster strong supplier relationships through consistent communication and transparent collaboration
- Resolve discrepancies between purchase orders and invoices promptly, supporting accurate financial records and smooth workflows
- Maintain organized and up-to-date records of purchases, pricing, and related documentation for audit and compliance purposes
Corporate Events and Executive Assistant
Klarna
01.2022 - 05.2022
- Planned and managed corporate events—from new-hire conferences, travel bookings, and catering to exclusive parties for C-level executives and team-building retreats for teams—hosting up to 250 attendees
- Coordinated complex travel arrangements and provided around-the-clock support to executives and team leads, ensuring smooth logistics and personalized assistance
- Negotiated with vendors to secure high-quality catering, entertainment, and services while adhering to budget constraints
- Delivered tailored entertainment experiences and supervised event execution, enhancing guest satisfaction and engagement
- Built and maintained strong vendor relationships, securing favorable contract terms and reliable service delivery
Teamlead
Dolores
08.2016 - 12.2021
- Led a diverse team of 8 in a busy Berlin restaurant, managing opening/closing procedures, cash reconciliation, and safety compliance
- Ensured high productivity and smooth operations during peak hours
- Delivered excellent customer service, building rapport and encouraging repeat business
- Utilized effective communication and time management skills to maintain a positive and efficient work environment
- Trained and coached team members to improve performance and maintain quality standards
Insurance Manager
American Fidelity Quality Assurance
05.2014 - 05.2016
- Managed health and life insurance policies for teachers, police, and firefighters with precision and compliance
- Delivered expert customer service by advising on coverage, processing payments, and managing account updates
- Handled complex customer inquiries by accurately interpreting regulatory and insurance laws
- Maintained meticulous records to support smooth interdepartmental operations and policy administration
- Conducted staff performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback and fostering professional development
Customer Retention Specialist
TCIM Services
02.2010 - 02.2011
- Resolved difficult customer complaints and led contract renewals, successfully rebuilding trust and keeping customers loyal while supporting revenue growth
- Worked with sales teams to create special offers aimed at keeping important customers
- Made sure services met quality and safety standards by following established guidelines
- Kept up with industry changes and competitor moves to improve customer retention strategies
Education
Certificate - Financial Bookkeeping With DATEV, Xpert Businesses
Comhard GmbH
Berlin, Germany 05.2023 - 07.2023
Associates Degree - Applied Sciences with focus in Psychology
Oklahoma State University
Oklahoma City, OK, USA 05.2006 - 01.2008
Skills
Core Skills & Competencies:
Purchasing & Procurement Purchase Order Management Invoice Processing & Reconciliation Supplier & Vendor Coordination Order Tracking & Shipment Management Agreement Review & Compliance Monthly Reporting Data Entry (96 WPM) Office Administration Analytical Thinking Attention to Detail Time & Resource Management Project Planning Multi-industry Knowledge Communication & Interpersonal Skills Negotiation & Mediation Conflict Resolution & De-escalation Customer Service & Retention Leadership & Team Collaboration Adaptability
Software
Google Workspace
DATEV
SAP
Salesforce
Interests
Passionate about the humanities, nature, and healthy living, I enjoy exploring artistic pursuits and personal growth With an adventurous spirit, I embrace diverse cultures and actively engage in community projects focused on positive impact These interests reflect my commitment to a well-rounded lifestyle and inspire my professional approach I am eager to bring my background in operational support to project management roles within dynamic, collaborative environments that value innovation and continuous growth
Timeline
Purchasing Assistant
Emp BIOTECH GmbH
05.2024 - Current
Certificate - Financial Bookkeeping With DATEV, Xpert Businesses
Comhard GmbH
05.2023 - 07.2023
Corporate Events and Executive Assistant
Klarna
01.2022 - 05.2022
Teamlead
Dolores
08.2016 - 12.2021
Insurance Manager
American Fidelity Quality Assurance
05.2014 - 05.2016
Customer Retention Specialist
TCIM Services
02.2010 - 02.2011
Associates Degree - Applied Sciences with focus in Psychology
Oklahoma State University
05.2006 - 01.2008
Similar Profiles
Judith SniateckiJudith Sniatecki
Head of Quality Compliance at Teva Biotech GmbHHead of Quality Compliance at Teva Biotech GmbH
Felix StemesederFelix Stemeseder
Scientist, Virology at HOOKIPA Biotech GmbHScientist, Virology at HOOKIPA Biotech GmbH
Sabine OttSabine Ott
Senior Vice President Business Development & Licensing at REVVITY INC. (former SIRION Biotech GmbH - Acquired By PerkinElmer – Now Revvity Inc. In 2021)Senior Vice President Business Development & Licensing at REVVITY INC. (former SIRION Biotech GmbH - Acquired By PerkinElmer – Now Revvity Inc. In 2021)
Dipesh JanaDipesh Jana
Electrical Engineer at Mercury Engineering GmbHElectrical Engineer at Mercury Engineering GmbH
Gabriel GarcíaGabriel García
Assistant Sound Engineer at Portstone StudiosAssistant Sound Engineer at Portstone Studios