Sydnee Distance, MS, CPPB, NIGP-CPP, CCMA, CVF
Sydnee Distance, MS, CPPB, NIGP-CPP, CCMA, CVF, is a dedicated and results-driven acquisition and procurement professional with over a decade of experience leading high-volume, complex operations. Currently serving as Manager of Strategy and Policy at the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), she is recognized for her strategic mindset, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to align organizational goals with operational execution. Sydnee has consistently demonstrated expertise in contract administration, procurement management, and policy development, earning a reputation for excellence in public sector procurement and contract negotiation.
Beyond her operational accomplishments, Sydnee is a passionate advocate for professional development and education in procurement. As a Training Instructor at NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement, she develops and facilitates comprehensive training programs designed to equip government procurement professionals with practical knowledge and best practices. She also created the “Metro Procurement U” curriculum at WMATA, developing interactive learning materials, workshops, and assessments that have strengthened staff expertise and improved organizational efficiency. Her work in education reflects her belief in nurturing talent, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a highly skilled workforce that can meet the evolving demands of public procurement.
Throughout her career, Sydnee has been guided and inspired by a diverse group of mentors and supporters, including Dr. Helen Barker, Suzette Moore, Jontae Rice, Tony Reed, as well as her sons, husband, grandmother, mother, and sisters. Their guidance, encouragement, and example of leadership and resilience have profoundly shaped her professional journey and personal growth. Sydnee’s contributions have been recognized through numerous awards, including the DC NIGP Distinguished Contract Specialist Award (2022) and the Harry H. Bain Distinguished Service Award (2025). Passionate, visionary, and committed to excellence, she continues to advance the procurement profession while mentoring others, driving innovation, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
• Managing Complex Negotiations
• Negotiation Essentials
• Enabling Business Process Improvement
• Leadercamp on-demand: Critical Thinking
• Certified Change Management Specialist (CMS)
• Six Sigma Lean Professional (SSLP)
• Certified Virtual Facilitator ®
• Intro to Lean Six Sigma
• Procurement II – Risk Assessment and Basic Cost or Price Analysis
• Certified Contract Management Associate (CCMA)
• Capitol Technology University - BSBA
• Florida Institute of Technology - MS
• Northcentral University - DBA
• DC NIGP's Distinguished Contract Specialist 2022
• Woman of the Year Award
• Contracts Associate of the Year
• American Association of Business Women
• Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Baltimore Chapter
• NCMA
• NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement
• THE MARYLAND PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION, INC.
• NAPW
• NAACP
• NCNW
• Top Ladies of Distinction (Nonprofit)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a continuous commitment to learning and growth. I remain open to new ideas, feedback, and challenges, using each experience as an opportunity to improve and adapt. This mindset allows me to evolve professionally, strengthen my skills, and consistently strive for excellence in everything I do.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to always keep learning and growing because when you do, opportunities will naturally present themselves.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is managing time effectively to meet all the demands and responsibilities required. Balancing priorities while maintaining quality and efficiency can be difficult, but it also presents an opportunity to develop stronger time management and organizational skills, which are essential for long-term success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The value most important to me in both my work and personal life is treating others with respect and kindness always striving to treat people the way I would want to be treated, or even better. I believe this approach fosters trust, collaboration, and meaningful relationships, while creating a positive and supportive environment wherever I am.