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Wayne Whitko

Wayne Whitko


Strategic Sourcing

Professional Overview
Wayne Whitko is an experienced strategic sourcing professional with a strong track record of driving cost savings, improving supply chain efficiency, and enhancing vendor partnerships across a variety of industries. With expertise in global sourcing, production management, and quality assurance, he has played a key role in optimizing procurement strategies and delivering business impact for leading brands.

Experience Summary

Current Role
As a Strategic Sourcing professional at Activision Blizzard, Wayne is responsible for developing and executing strategic sourcing initiatives to support the company's global operations. He collaborates cross-functionally to identify cost-saving opportunities, negotiate favorable supplier contracts, and implement best-in-class procurement practices. Through his strategic leadership, Wayne has helped Activision Blizzard achieve significant cost reductions while maintaining high quality standards and reliable supply.

Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Wayne held senior-level sourcing and supply chain management positions at prominent organizations. At Jacuzzi Group Worldwide, he served as Senior Global Sourcing Manager, overseeing the company's global procurement activities and driving process improvements that enhanced supply chain visibility and flexibility. At Oakley, he managed global sourcing for the brand's apparel, footwear, and accessories divisions, optimizing vendor relationships and spearheading strategic sourcing initiatives. Earlier in his career, Wayne held roles at PowerBalance and TaylorMade Golf Company, where he leveraged his expertise in supply chain management, production, and quality assurance to support the organizations' growth and operational efficiency.

Academic Background
Wayne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of California, Riverside, with a concentration in Supply Chain Management. Throughout his academic journey, he maintained a strong focus on developing his skills in strategic sourcing, procurement, and operations management.

Areas of Expertise
  • Strategic sourcing and procurement

  • Global supply chain management

  • Production and quality assurance

  • Vendor relationship management

  • Cost optimization and savings initiatives

  • Cross-functional collaboration and leadership


Professional Impact
During his tenure at Jacuzzi Group Worldwide, Wayne led the implementation of a comprehensive supplier performance management program, which resulted in a 12% reduction in procurement costs and a 15% improvement in on-time delivery. At Oakley, he spearheaded the consolidation of the company's global apparel supply base, enabling a 20% decrease in lead times and a 9% increase in gross margins.

Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and proven track record of success, Wayne Whitko is a valuable asset to Activision Blizzard and the wider sourcing and supply chain management community. He is committed to driving operational excellence, fostering strong vendor partnerships, and delivering tangible business impact through innovative sourcing strategies.