Lauren Jenkins Hatcher, MS-SCM, CPSM
Lauren Jenkins Hatcher, MS-SCM, CPSM, is a Senior Buyer at Leidos, Inc., where she specializes in technology procurement and strategic sourcing. With extensive experience managing complex software contracts—including enterprise licensing for Microsoft, cloud consumption purchases like AWS and Azure, and AI tool procurements—Lauren combines meticulous attention to detail with a collaborative approach to supplier relations. Her career spans roles in subcontracts administration, project management, and purchasing across multiple industries, including prior positions at Georgia-Pacific Building Products and Alcoa.
A graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Lauren earned a dual undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management and International Business and completed her Master of Science in Supply Chain Management with a perfect 4.0 GPA. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) and a certified Life Coach, reflecting her dedication to both professional excellence and personal development. Throughout her career, mentorship has played a pivotal role; Lauren credits guidance from Peggy Sodin, an indirect category manager at Stratasys, for helping her refine her leadership, organizational, and career advancement skills.
Beyond her professional achievements, Lauren is passionate about empowering women in business and serving her community. She actively participates in initiatives that promote leadership development, and she has a longstanding commitment to volunteer work, including raising funds for black bear research with the Appalachian Bear Rescue. A mother of two young daughters, Lauren balances her career with family life while enjoying the outdoors and practicing yoga, embodying a philosophy that blends ambition with authenticity, service, and continuous learning.
• Life Coach
• Become an Entrepreneur Inside a Company
• Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
• University of Tennessee, Knoxville - M.S.
• Appalachian Bear Rescue
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to drive, passion, and the support of strong mentors like Peggy Sodin, who provided invaluable career guidance and helped me build a professional foundation. Continuous learning and hard work, including balancing rigorous academics while raising young children, have also been key to my growth and achievements.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to continuously keep learning. Staying open to different viewpoints and keeping up with industry developments allows me to bring fresh perspectives and remain adaptable in my work.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering the industry to be intentional about the opportunities they pursue. Don’t feel compelled to say yes to every request; instead, focus on work that leverages your strengths, drives growth, and positions you for advancement, while being mindful of areas where you can improve.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge—and opportunity—in my field right now is adapting to AI and emerging technologies. Implementing AI in meaningful ways across procurement and supply chain operations presents the chance to drive efficiency and innovation. At Leidos, AI and automation are being prioritized as key strategic initiatives, highlighting the transformative potential for the industry.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are continuous learning, integrity, and self-awareness. I strive to balance service to others with strategic self-advocacy, while prioritizing transparency, honesty, and family.
Locations
Leidos
Maryville, TN 37801