Stephen Applewhite

Oversaw $80M+ in annual spend across multiple residential developments in the Dallas/Fort Worth market, aligning procurement and supply chain operations with project timelines and financial goals. Negotiated contracts and led RFP processes, delivering $572,759 in savings on a Rowlett residential community and a $2.3M commercial amenity center. Built and governed a network of 50+ suppliers, implementing performance scorecards, risk monitoring, and process improvements to ensure on-time delivery and margin protection. Led the full buyout and construction of a 408-unit Princeton community under a $66M GMP, completing the project ahead of schedule. Managed and mentored a procurement team, establishing performance metrics and strengthening operational alignment across sourcing, construction, and finance functions.

Led procurement and supply chain operations for multi-community residential developments, overseeing budgets, RFPs, and vendor strategy. Negotiated $1,500 per-unit savings on non-commodity vendors while maintaining quality and schedule. Directed the launch of five new residential communities, managing sourcing, contract award, and budget analysis with construction and finance teams. Developed and implemented a Purchasing Manual and SOPs, standardizing workflows, supplier governance, and team responsibilities. Mentored direct reports through goal-setting, KPI tracking, and hands-on coaching. Strengthened supplier networks and procurement processes to support multi-site operations and ensure on-time delivery.

Directed regional procurement and supply chain operations across 33 communities in DFW and Houston, maintaining 32% gross margins through strategic vendor sourcing and cost control. Led procurement strategy for the launch of two new rental communities, including supplier selection, contract negotiation, and pro forma development to support expansion initiatives. Negotiated and standardized vendor contracts across multiple markets, improving pricing governance, quality performance, and schedule reliability. Strengthened supply chain resilience during market volatility through proactive risk mitigation, supplier diversification, and process improvements. Mentored procurement staff, established performance metrics, and aligned cross-functional teams to optimize operations and project execution.

Managed purchasing and warranty operations for high-volume residential communities, overseeing vendor contracts, cost controls, and post-close service performance. Negotiated trade partner agreements and pricing structures to protect margins while maintaining construction schedules and quality standards. Directed warranty operations, reducing cycle times and improving homeowner satisfaction through structured processes and vendor accountability. Built and maintained relationships with local and national suppliers, ensuring consistent material availability and service responsiveness. Collaborated with construction, sales, and finance teams to align purchasing strategy with production goals and budget targets.

Supported purchasing operations for high-volume residential communities, coordinating trade partner contracts, lot budgets, and material takeoffs to keep projects on schedule. Managed vendor communication, pricing updates, and change orders, ensuring accurate cost tracking and alignment with construction timelines. Partnered with construction and accounting teams to maintain budget integrity, resolve discrepancies, and streamline procurement workflows.