Message   from   the   President

Second Quarter, 2011
 
 
Dear valued member of ISM-SEM, 
 
Even wicked winter weather couldn’t stop a good crowd from attending our January meeting, where they appreciated a great speaker. 
 
In February, Student Activities Director Mike Greenlee and I made two visits to Wayne State University  classrooms, where we encouraged students to become student members of ISM-SEM.  On one of the visits, 34 students signed up on the spot!  In addition, 70 WSU students attended our Member Meeting.
 
We had another good crowd for our March Supplier Diversity event, where we celebrated “The Power of Inclusion”.  Minority/ woman-owned businesses across Southeast Michigan met with purchasing professionals at their exhibit tables. 
 
We tested a new location for our April satellite seminar, and it was a success!  A sold-out audience enjoyed learning and lunching at Schoolcraft College’s Vistatech Center.  The ‘Legal Aspects of Purchasing’ topic was of great interest to all. 
 
Last month, our keynote speaker made us all feel much, much better after delivering the statistical facts that bolster Michigan’s economic status.  Also, our pre-dinner topic on Six Sigma was well-received; look for us to do even more in that area.
 
It may be near-summer, but your Board of Directors is hard at work on a variety of activities!  Let’s
jump right in—
 
--“Meet the Purchasers” Event
 
This is a great opportunity for Metro Detroit suppliers to meet and greet the purchasing professionals from area companies!  People who have a procurement/ sourcing need getting one-on-one time with those who can fulfill the need.  We are proud to partner with the Detroit Regional Chamber to present this event!  Coming this fall.
 
--Negotiation and Lease Review Seminar
 
Don’t miss this half-day event in November that will provide you with solid negotiation tips, leasing
contract insight, and more.  Featuring nationally renowned presenter Mary Redmond.
 
--Affiliate Agreements
 
Affiliate agreements have been successfully executed with The Project Management Institute- Great Lakes Chapter (PMI-GLC), and the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG)!  Make sure you click on their icons on our website to see their event calendars.  More agreements are being finalized.   
 
--Recognition of Past Presidents
 
I have contacted all Past Presidents who are current members of ISM-SEM, and I am
honored to recognize them at the September Member Meeting.  A great lineage of accomplishment.  
 
--This quarter’s “Ask the Board” question is: 
 
“Why don’t you have a plant tour?”
 
Great idea- we are expecting to have one in October.  Stay tuned for more details. 
 
And send us your question!   
 
--Website Improvement
 
Our Website Committee will be working this summer on making our website even better.
 
Remember:  www.ism-sem.org  is your key to becoming the best and brightest!
 
 
I hope that all of you have a wonderful summer, and that you take time to recharge the batteries.
 
See you on September 15th!
 
 
Yours in supply management excellence,

Brian J. Smith, CPSM
President
ISM-Southeast Michigan, Inc.