In the past year and a half, Strategic Sourcing Manager Amanda Bender has navigated an uncertain business environment while launching Anthem Inc.’s internal direct-sourcing program, expanding the use of digital technology, and curating and maintaining a robust talent pool. With the help of her program office team, Bender oversees program operations, metrics, supplier communication and management for the health insurance company.

Anthem’s new internal direct-sourcing program has yielded significant cost savings, and Bender is focused on growing the program, expanding into the gig economy, and reducing vendor reliance.

Shortly before the pandemic began, Bender’s team launched an integrated background-check process with their vendor management system. They were the VMS’s first customer to implement the process, which provides enhanced and streamlined compliance, automated audit processes, and real-time status updates for process efficiencies.

Improvements pioneered by Bender’s team have made her department’s operations smoother and more efficient, freeing them to focus on pandemic-related challenges such as increased attrition and the transition to remote work. She collaborates across the enterprise and with consultants to identify root causes and strategize on solutions. Innovation and agility will be key attributes heading into an uncertain future.

“Enterprises are going to require a more innovative approach from everyone in the ecosystem,” she says. “We need to challenge the status quo, think differently, and approach the challenges collaboratively and strategically.”