Tapika Howard
Deputy Chief Procurement Officer
Tapika Howard, a native of Atlanta, is a distinguished professional with a robust background in government relations and procurement management. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a Minor in International Relations from Morris Brown College. Beginning her career as a Communications Specialist at her alma mater, Tapika swiftly ascended to roles of increasing responsibility, showcasing her exceptional drive and passion for public service.
During her tenure with United States Senator Sam Nunn, Tapika served as an Immigration Congressional Liaison, facilitating communication between constituents and a multitude of federal agencies. Her adeptness in navigating complex government processes and her commitment to constituent advocacy resulted in her managing a caseload of over 500 inquiries. Tapika's tenure in the United States Senate spanned seven years, during which she demonstrated exemplary leadership and conflict resolution skills.
In 2001, driven by her unwavering dedication to public service, she returned to Morris Brown College as the Director for Government Relations. In this role, she secured significant federal funding, including a $2 million technology appropriations grant, and provided invaluable guidance on policies and procedures. Transitioning back to government in 2004, Tapika joined the City of Atlanta's Department of Procurement as an Executive Assistant. After a hiatus to raise her children, she returned in 2017, assuming various roles within the department.
Currently serving as Deputy Chief Procurement Officer, Tapika plays a pivotal role in orchestrating core procurement management processes, including strategic planning, development, and training. She supervises and directs subordinate staff, oversees contract administration, and collaborates with operating departments to identify integrative procurement solutions. Her expertise in procurement management and strategic planning has been instrumental in optimizing processes and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
With a career spanning over 30 years in government and procurement, Tapika has consistently demonstrated a commitment to optimizing organizational performance and enhancing operational efficiency. She oversees a wide range of procurement activities, ensuring that the organization achieves its strategic goals through effective sourcing, vendor management, and contract negotiation. Her deep understanding of administrative processes enables her to design and implement robust systems that streamline operations and drive cost savings.
Tapika excels at identifying and leveraging opportunities for process improvement, applying a meticulous approach to evaluating existing procedures and introducing cutting-edge procurement solutions. She has successfully led initiatives that resulted in significant cost reductions, improved supplier relationships, and enhanced compliance with regulatory requirements.
A visionary leader, Tapika is skilled in fostering a collaborative environment, working closely with cross-functional teams to align procurement strategies with organizational objectives. Her innate ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution has earned her a reputation for delivering results that exceed expectations.
Throughout her career, Tapika has championed the adoption of advanced technologies and best practices in both government and procurement, positioning the organization at the forefront of industry standards. Her commitment to continuous improvement and innovation has been instrumental in increasing engagement with internal stakeholders and the supplier community.
All of which has contributed to the organization's success.
Recently, during Women's History Month, Tapika was one of the 2024 City of Atlanta Women of Impact Nominees. She also spoke at the 2024 Americas Procurement Congress in Miami, where she discussed the City of Atlanta’s Department of Procurement transformation process.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Tapika enjoys spending quality time with her two adult daughters, writing, and indulging in leisurely shopping excursions. Her blend of expertise, leadership, and strategic vision makes her an invaluable asset to the organization. Tapika's life has been spent making an impact in the lives of men and women in the marketplace, reflecting her dedication to the professional development of others and excellence in procurement.