Who is Andrew Merriman? - Global Sourcing Expert

Overview
Current PositionSenior Director of Global Sourcing at Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC
LocationSalt Lake City, United States of America
EducationExecutive MBA, Bachelor's in Product Design Engineering Technology, Associate's in Mechanical Engineering
LanguagesNot specified
Key SkillsGlobal sourcing, Manufacturing process implementation, Quality management systems

Education

Andrew Merriman's educational journey began at Ferris State University, located in Big Rapids, Michigan. This institution is known for its focus on practical and technical education. Here, Merriman first completed an Associate's Degree in Mechanical Engineering/Mechanical Technology from January 1996 to December 1998, laying the foundation for his technical expertise. He then pursued and obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Product Design Engineering Technology from January 1999 to December 2003, further honing his skills in designing and engineering products.

Continuing his quest for knowledge, Merriman enrolled in the Executive MBA program at the University of Utah - David Eccles School of Business from January 2017 to December 2019. The David Eccles School of Business is renowned for its innovative and entrepreneurial programs, providing Merriman with a strong foundation in business management and strategy, crucial for his future roles in global sourcing and manufacturing.

Professional Experience

Black Diamond Equipment

Merriman's professional journey began at Black Diamond Equipment in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he served as a Ski Category Consultant from June 2004 to July 2021. Black Diamond is a leader in outdoor equipment, known for its innovation and quality in products for climbing, skiing, and mountain sports. In this role, Merriman was responsible for developing and executing test criteria for new products, manufacturing processes, and raw materials. He designed, developed, and maintained both software and hardware to facilitate in-house testing, showcasing his technical prowess and commitment to quality and innovation.

Traeger, Inc.

In May 2021, Merriman took on the role of Senior Director of Global Sourcing at Traeger, Inc., located in Salt Lake County, Utah. Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC is a company that has revolutionized outdoor cooking with its wood pellet grills, combining the taste of wood-fired cooking with modern convenience. In this position, Merriman relocated to China to assist in establishing a wholly owned off-shore manufacturing facility. He implemented in-house manufacturing processes, ERP, and quality management systems, and hired and managed Asian-based employees in departments including quality assurance, manufacturing, and procurement. His work at Traeger, Inc. underscores his expertise in global sourcing, manufacturing, and quality management, making significant contributions to the company's success in the competitive outdoor cooking market.

Throughout his career, Andrew Merriman has demonstrated a profound commitment to quality, innovation, and global sourcing. His educational background and professional experiences reflect a deep understanding of both the technical and business aspects of manufacturing and product development, making him a valuable asset in the global sourcing and manufacturing industry.