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A CONVERSATION WITH LAURA SANDERS
Laura Sanders came to the Lab in 2009, working as a project coordinator for small construction projects in Facilities. She learned a lot about the Lab in that position and in her current position as the manager for services subcontracting in Procurement which is part of the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO).
She says the people are what makes the Lab a different place to work. “People are positive, and we each support the Lab’s mission in our way. I’ve always felt supported, receiving training and mentorship so I can continually learn and grow.” Laura says the best way to get things done is to build relationships with others in different divisions through joining a club or an Employee Resource Group.
What is your area of work?
I am a Procurement manager handling services subcontracting. We write the procurement contracts for services such as consultants, temporary staff, or repair.
What big challenge(s) are you hoping to solve with your work in the next 20 years?
I feel women in leadership is an area we will continue to work on during the next few years. I was fortunate that other women at the Lab lifted me and showed me how to be a leader. Women face hurdles, such as taking time off from work to give birth or raise children. I felt fortunate that when I took off 12 weeks to give birth to my daughter Hannah, who is now three, all the managers in OCFO, and the women, in particular, were supportive. I want all managers at the Lab to understand how vital this support is to the entire team since it shows you are empathetic and concerned about the whole person as a leader.
What steps are you taking today to accomplish this vision?
I believe that each of us is responsible for lifting one another when we have an opportunity. One way to do that is through mentoring. I have mentored through our program in OCFO, which is open to both men and women, and I encourage others to find ways to mentor.
Who do you partner with at the Lab to support the Lab’s mission?
I partner with different divisions since in Procurement we deal with lots of sitewide services contracts. This would include the cafeteria, security guards, and even the fire department on site through a contract.
Who from the past, present, or future would you like to collaborate with?
If I could pick anyone, it would be Oprah Winfrey. I admire how she struggled in her early years, but she had a vision, made a plan, and through her tenacity, she built her empire. I don’t think I’m planning to build an empire, but I like working with those with a work ethic since we can accomplish a lot together.
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