Process Optimization

Whataburger Fancy Ketchup puzzle pieces scattered next to a tray and a red puzzle box lid with branding.
500-piece puzzle box featuring an illustration of people relaxing in a city park with trees and buildings in the background. Includes a warning about small parts and choking hazard for children under 3 years. Published by Blue Star Press.

Whataburger Puzzle Container


 Custom Product Development & Operations Management

Category: Process Optimization - Delivering complex client solutions through strategic vendor partnerships

The Challenge

A major client (Whataburger) required a custom promotional product with unique specifications that no existing suppliers could fulfill. The project demanded finding innovative manufacturing solutions while meeting strict timeline and budget requirements.

My Role

I managed end-to-end operations for this complex project, from initial concept development through final delivery. This included vendor sourcing, relationship management, technical specification development, and cross-functional coordination between client requirements and manufacturing capabilities.

Strategy & Process

  • Developed comprehensive technical specifications aligned with client's operational and retail requirements

  • Coordinated cross-functional operations between marketing, design, and sourcing teams

  • Executed strategic vendor evaluation, identifying manufacturing partners capable of custom solutions

  • Implemented quality control processes and timeline management to ensure on-time, on-budget delivery

Close-up of puzzle pieces in a white container under a red lid.

Outcome

  • Successfully delivered first-of-its-kind product under budget and on schedule

  • Established new vendor partnership that supported future operational scalability

  • Demonstrated ability to solve complex operational challenges through creative problem-solving and vendor relationship management

  • Project featured in client's major retail campaign, validating operational success

What I Learned

Complex operational challenges require persistence and creative vendor partnerships. When standard solutions don't exist, operational excellence means building new capabilities through strategic relationships.