You see a lot when you begin at the bottom. I started as an orderly at the Medicus Surgery Center in Anderson, S.C., and then slowly but surely learned the basics of supply buying and case costing. Today, I'm a 14-year veteran of the supply management business. During that time I've discovered that materials managers need to be savvy negotiators, able to multi-task and serve as open-minded agents for change. If you're a materials manager, here are some ways to make your job easier. If you're looking to hire a supply guru, read on to understand what we face on a daily basis and the type of personality the position requires.