Danika Fanner
Danika S. Fanner is a highly accomplished procurement professional with over 17 years of experience driving strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and operational excellence across public and academic institutions. Currently serving as Strategic Sourcing Manager at Emory University, she oversees multi-million-dollar contracts for scientific research and ensures compliance with regulatory standards. Throughout her career, Danika has consistently demonstrated an ability to optimize procurement outcomes, foster supplier relationships, and implement innovative strategies that streamline operations and generate significant cost savings.
Danika’s career journey spans local, state, and city government agencies, including the Georgia Department of Public Health, the Georgia Department of Administrative Services, and the City of Atlanta, where she served in senior management and category management roles. In these positions, she led complex procurement initiatives, established key performance indicators, and implemented service level agreements that enhanced efficiency and accountability. Her expertise in navigating federal and state procurement regulations has positioned her as a trusted leader in the field, capable of managing both large-scale contracts and daily operational challenges with finesse.
A confident collaborator and effective communicator, Danika thrives in cross-functional environments, aligning stakeholders and teams to achieve organizational goals. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Purchasing, Procurement/Acquisitions, and Contracts Management from Athens State University, equipping her with the academic foundation to complement her extensive hands-on experience. Known for her strategic vision and commitment to excellence, Danika continues to inspire innovation and drive measurable results in every organization she serves.
• Athens State University- B.S.
• NIGP professional organization Pearls of Vision Foundation Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and support of two key mentors, Susan Floyd and Dana Greer, and to my commitment to mentoring young adults and teenagers, fostering learning and growth in the field of procurement.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering procurement is to explore diverse interests and remain open to the wide range of opportunities available, from construction to IT procurement.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in my work and personal life are collaboration, community service, and empowering diverse women, supporting initiatives that positively impact both individuals and the broader community.