Kristen Williams is the second generation CEO of Single Source Procurement (SSP). SSP staffs and stocks an on-site scientific supply storeroom at the WMed Innovation Center and coordinates ongoing routine procurement for companies, as well as coordinating instrument repair and researching and negotiating one-time purchases. SSP also operates in Ann Arbor and Plymouth, Michigan. One of the first companies to take up residence in the Innovation Center when it opened in 2003, SSP has provided services to dozens of high-tech client companies over the years. Through a series of interview questions, Kristen shared her thoughts about Single Source Procurement.
Let’s start with an easy question, Kristen. What does Single Source Procurement do?
“SSP takes the pain out of purchasing; we are your one stop shop. We can order anything from A to Z and will follow the process until you are completely satisfied with your purchase.”
What excites you most about what your company does?
“There’s a new challenge every day, whether it be looking for an alternate due to a backorder or trying to negotiate the best deal for our client. We help businesses grow by becoming their purchasing department so that they can focus on what they do best.”
What is your background? How did you become interested in what you’re doing now?
“I have been with SSP for going on 19 years. My father founded the company in 2003, needed some help with staffing so I came aboard. The rest is history!”
If you could have dinner with one person, alive or dead, who would it be and why?
“Ohhh, that’s a tough one. I’d have to say my mom. She recently passed and there’s so much I feel I didn’t get to tell her. I’d take her to Red Lobster – her favorite was their biscuits. I can picture her smiling now.”
What do you find most challenging about leading a start-up company?
“Getting non-clients to listen to what we offer. Everyone is so busy in their day to day routines, I’d like just for 5 minutes of their time to explain how SSP can help. Everyone could use a little help now and again, right?”
What is the most rewarding aspect about being an entrepreneur?
“I get to watch our clients accelerate. To me, that is exciting, because we may have played an integral part in their success.”
How long has your company been in the Innovation Center?
“SSP has been here since 2003. Our first office was basically a closet! Now we have an on-site stockroom and room for our employees.”
What do you like most about being a client of the Innovation Center?
“Sandra and Madelyn are so nice and helpful. They really want everyone to succeed. The other clients are very supportive as well. We have been in business for almost 20 years and we couldn’t do it without them.”
Anything else you’d like to say?
“If you need any type of assistance with procurement, please give us a call! One of our knowledgeable team members are always eager to help.”
To learn more about Single Source Procurement, please visit https://www.sspusa.com/.