NHHI Spotlight – Dana Nave

Tell us about yourself.

Six years ago, I made the leap from the bustling streets of New York City to the vibrant community of New Haven. Landing a role as a Procurement Operations Manager at an esteemed international healthcare manufacturing firm was just the beginning of my journey. As the project reached its conclusion, I eagerly set my sights on new horizons, leading me to discover the promising avenues offered by New Haven Works. Joining their program filled me with excitement and anticipation for what lay ahead.

In 2023, an opportunity arose that resonated deeply with my expertise and aspirations: the Sourcing and Procurement Manager position at Yale Hospitality. I seized the chance to apply, and I am grateful to have been chosen to contribute my skills and passion to this great organization.

Tell us about your job search experience.

Guided by a knowledgeable job coach and mentor, I embarked on a comprehensive approach to securing employment. I applied to numerous positions, meticulously tracked my progress with a job journal, and refined both my resume and cover letters. My stroke of luck continued when my job coach, equipped with firsthand experience in foodservice operations, provided invaluable assistance in preparing for interviews, ensuring I was well-versed in industry-specific terminology and interview structures. Throughout the initial six months of my new role, she remained a steadfast source of support, offering guidance during moments of uncertainty, and consistently reinforcing the significance of overcoming obstacles as a step of my professional development.

Tell us about your current roles at Yale.

As the Sourcing and Procurement Manager for Yale Hospitality, the foodservice department at Yale University, I play a pivotal role in facilitating purchasing and contracting activities across various key areas. These encompass support for 14 residential dining halls, the Schwarzman Center, retail outlets, Yale Catering, and the Yale Commissary.

Integral to my responsibilities is fostering collaborative partnerships with both internal and external stakeholders. I engage with vendors to ensure that our procurement agreements and product selections align seamlessly with university policies and values. Moreover, I am continuously exploring innovative avenues and strategies with a focus on local suppliers and sustainable initiatives to enhance our offerings while maintaining our commitment to delivering high-quality products and cuisine.

Despite initially lacking prior experience in the foodservice industry, I have undergone extensive training and received invaluable support from Yale Hospitality leadership. Actively immersing myself in industry knowledge, I regularly participate in IFMA webinars, attend food shows, and seek insights from my peers. I am immensely grateful for the unwavering support and guidance provided by my managers, which has enabled me to confidently assert my place within the foodservice sector.

What advice do you have for other jobseekers?

The most valuable piece of advice I can offer is to recognize your active role in the interview process. Take the initiative to inquire about the company culture, your prospective colleagues, and how your unique experiences can contribute to the role. Preparation is key; thoroughly research the job description, the interviewers, and the department to ensure that your questions are tailored to address pertinent topics. By coming prepared, you demonstrate your commitment and enthusiasm for the opportunity while ensuring that the conversation aligns with your interests and goals.

What is next for you?

Since joining Yale, I’ve actively engaged with various affinity groups and participated in numerous webinars and meetings. For example, I became a member of the Future Leaders of Yale group, where I’ve attended events aimed at networking and connecting with colleagues from diverse departments across the university and I get to learn about their work experiences in other university departments and roles.

In addition to my involvement at Yale, I am pursuing an MBA at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business to further augment my business acumen and personal development. Anticipated to graduate from the program in December 2024, I am committed to continuously expanding my knowledge and skills to thrive in dynamic professional environments.