March is National Procurement Month! Public procurement is an essential role in government operations, supported by a dedicated, qualified staff to ensure taxpayer dollars are expended responsibly and efficiently.
We are highlighting some of our DAS procurement professionals this month in recognition of National Procurement Month.
Antoinette M. Webster
Assistant Director, Procurement Programs & Services
Department of Administrative Services | Procurement Office
1. What do you do?
As Assistant Director for Procurement Programs & Services, I support the DAS Procurement Director and our teams including contracting, business outreach and administration.
2. Why do you work for the State of Connecticut?
As a Connecticut native and practicing attorney, I take pride in the ability to make a difference in this state, whether it be advancing a program for the benefit of small businesses, improving administrative efficiencies, or providing state agencies the best contracting vehicles to fulfil their business needs.
3. What is your favorite part of your job?
Regularly participating in a variety of projects and initiatives.
4. How did you get involved in Procurement work at DAS?
While working at another agency, I was fortunate enough to collaborate with Rachel Whitesell, a DAS attorney. Rachel and I became friendly, and she suggested I move to DAS to work with her; years into my state career, I decided to take a leap and landed in DAS procurement, alongside Rachel. I was looking forward to working with Rachel in my new role; however, she was ill and ultimately left state service shortly after my move to DAS. Rachel was truly a gem and I consider myself lucky to have worked with her, before and (for a short while) during my time at DAS.
5. What would you tell someone who is interested in working in Procurement or for the State of Connecticut?
If you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment alongside a great team of people, procurement is for you!
6. How do you approach building and maintaining relationships with suppliers and stakeholders?
My main goal in developing working relationships with stakeholders is to identify their needs, communicate regularly and add value to the interaction by offering solutions that not only address their immediate needs, but also provide added benefits whenever possible.
7. What has been your favorite procurement project so far?
Business One Stop, a project that allowed several stakeholders to work together and produce an end result that utilized innovative procedures, achieved progressive timelines and stakeholder engagement from the onset.
8. Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?
Italy, Italy, Italy.
9. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be, and why?
Time control, particularly ADDING hours to the day. With additional hours in any day of my choice, I would further develop meaningful experiences/memories with those closest to me.
10. Who inspires you and why?
Not a single individual, but the many remarkable people who have faced adversity, overcome challenges, and moved beyond obstacles to succeed in life. For example, women in difficult abusive home environments who have moved beyond the abuse, achieved independence, and succeeded in establishing a new, safe, and rewarding life for themselves and their children.
