Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Supply Chain Procurement leadership recently provided information about how to do business at the Savannah River Site (SRS), during the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce’s “Third Thursday Business Builder” meeting.

“This event is held regularly by the Chamber to help people understand how they might be able to
do business with some of its members more effectively,” said Fred Freeman, Director Supply Chain Procurement. “We gladly accepted the invitation. SRNS is continually looking for opportunities to help local businesses--especially small businesses--understand they can optimize their ability to work with SRS.”

Over the past four years, SRNS has awarded more than $1 billion in subcontracts to small and diverse businesses. SRNS committed nearly 80% of all procurement dollars to these local and national companies.

Freeman appeared with other SRNS Supply Chain Procurement managers, and they provided an in-depth look at the SRS missions and operations, followed by a “how to” presentation. Topics covered included: Partnering for Success, Managing Your Reputation, Understanding SRS Requirements and the Procurement Process.

“We told them how to find business opportunities here at SRS, and where we typically look for products and services,” said Agyemang, SRNS Small Business Liaison Officer. “But better yet, we also described potential pitfalls that companies should avoid, such as issues related to conflict of interest.”

Presenters also provided tips and techniques for suppliers to increase their knowledge of the procurement process. “We do our best to coach them,” said Agyemang. “These tips are essential because you can do everything right and still not win the business. These sessions allow us to provide information and receive candid feedback.”

Sue Parr, President and CEO, Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce, noted that many of those in attendance found exceptional value during the final segment of the presentation when the floor was opened for general discussion. “Our members were able to talk directly with the SRNS procurement team, the people who will be reviewing, analyzing and selecting candidates for opportunities throughout the Savannah River Site. We were quite pleased with the event and will be inviting the SRNS Procurement team to visit us next year as well.”