The SMMUSD Board of Education approved the appointment of David E. Malone, CPSM as the new director of purchasing at its May 2, regular meeting. Malone’s appointment began on May 1.
Malone brings more than 25 years’ experience in procurement, purchasing operations, logistics management, process improvement, cost optimization and strategic sourcing for large corporations and municipalities, including the city of Chicago.
Malone has previously served as the chief procurement officer for the Washington Suburban Sanitary Commission in Maryland; director, supply chain services for U.S. Cellular Corp; chief procurement officer for the City of Chicago and the director of purchasing and supplier development for Avery Dennison Corp in Diamond Bar.
"I am extremely happy to be joining the Santa Monica-Malibu community and a school district that is focused on working on behalf of the best interests of students,” Malone said. “Education is a passion of mine, so being a part of an organization designed around providing high level educational opportunities for students is the perfect fit. I plan to work collaboratively with educators and administrators to insure that the work we do puts the interests of students first, and that goods and services are provided in a timely, cost effective fashion, and with a high level of quality."
Malone holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Jackson State University in Mississippi and a master’s in business administration from the Case Western Reserve University, Weatherhead School of Management, Cleveland, Ohio. He has earned many awards and recognitions including the Outstanding Procurement Professional of the Year by the Minority Enterprise Development Council & Minority Business Development Agency, government support awards by the Women’s Development Center and Mexican American Chamber of Commerce of Illinois, and a diversity spirit achievement award.
He is a Certified Professional in Supply Management, issued by the Institute for Supply Management. This certification is considered the gold standard of supply management credentials.
“Mr. Malone will be a valuable addition to our district team,” Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati said. “We are looking forward to his expertise to oversee and manage our busy purchasing department.”
Submitted by Gail Pinsker, Community & Public Relations Officer
