5 Questions with Senior Supply Chain Buyer Planner Sam Gordillo
As Arthrex continues to grow, we’re connecting employees from different locations by sharing their stories. In this 5 Questions interview, Senior Supply Chain Buyer Planner Sam Gordillo shares what it’s been like working at Arthrex California Inc. (ACI) for the last 20 years and how our mission has been the driving force behind his dedication and pride in Arthrex.
What does a typical day at Arthrex look like for you?
A typical day starts with replying to emails from Customer Service representatives, international planners as well as other buyer planners throughout Arthrex. Giving great customer service to all departments and subsidiaries is very important at Arthrex. As much as I would love to have no backorders, they sometimes happen and when they do, we always need to be prompt in giving accurate information. It’s a team effort.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
We are here to help surgeons treat their patients better. That being said, hearing stories about how many of the Arthrex designed and manufactured surgical instruments have improved the way of life for so many patients is something I take to heart. I’m proud to say I work for Arthrex and share what Arthrex does.
What has been a highlight during your time at Arthrex?
I previously worked for Friatec before Arthrex acquired it in 1999. We had a total of seven employees at the time. I remember if we manufactured 300 instruments in a given month back then, that was a great accomplishment. Today, we have more than 85 employees at ACI and we manufacture more than 6,000 instruments on a monthly basis. If someone had told me back in 1999 that someday we would see these kind of numbers, I would have thought they were out of their minds. I’m extremely proud to say I’ve been a part of ACI’s history.
What is the best advice you’ve received throughout your career?
Don’t sell yourself short – don’t say you can’t do something. No matter what the challenges are, give yourself the opportunity to succeed. I think we would all be amazed at what we can accomplish with hard work, teamwork and dedication.
What do you do in your downtime?
I enjoy spending time with family and friends. Coming from a Mexican background with a large family, there are plenty of carne asada parties to host or attend on the weekends. I love sports and the city of Los Angeles, so that’s a perfect combination to attend Dodgers, Lakers, Kings and even Oakland Raiders games, all within driving distance.
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