Ed O'Rourke

BA 1985, Political Science

Vice President of Procurement, Knowledge Universe
Portland, OR

Ed O’Rourke has more than 20 years of leadership experience developing supply strategies for leading organizations in the lodging, grocery, foodservice and education operations. He has experience in creating ground up enterprise wide procurement functions for companies like Marriott, Starwood, Accenture, Dunkin Brands, HMSHost and Knowledge Universe.   

O’Rourke is the VP of Procurement for Knowledge Universe, the largest privately held company in Portland, Oregon. He helps support the efficient procurement operations for 1600 early childcare centers operating under the brands of KinderCare, CCLC and Champions.   

As Chief Procurement Officer of Dunkin Donuts exclusive supply chain organization O’Rourke was accountable for driving savings on $1.3b in supplies for 7,000 franchise operations. 

At early stage startup CertiClear, LLC, O’Rourke helped bring innovative fraud prevention technology tools and solutions to federal, state and local government. He also filed a patent and designed the standards and processes for www.SeniorChecked,com a web based application helping to protect senior citizens. 

As Vice President of Supply Chain for HMSHost from 2000 to 2006, O’Rourke developed strategic sourcing strategies that combined the purchasing leverage of the group procurement organization (GPO) model along with large scale brands including Starbucks, YUM, Brinker, Burger King and others.

From 1998 to 2000 O’Rourke helped Accenture, LLP design and implement a best in class procurement organization prior to a successful public offering.   

From 1994 to 1998 he led the formation of a comprehensive procurement organization for Westin Hotels including the merger related integration activities with Sheraton, Westin and Starwood.

From 1989 to 1994, O’Rourke ran the regional procurement office in London for Marriott International where he developed supply and distribution strategies to support Hotels and Inflite Catering facilities throughout Europe and the Middle East.

Throughout his career, O’Rourke has had an exceptional track record of business improvement which is based on his philosophy of total enterprise engagement. He believes in harnessing innovative applications and approaches to proactively create a desired outcome. He is a resourceful, articulate problem solver known for his ability to lead change and leave behind a positive legacy of achievement. O’Rourke is a member of the Institute of Supply Management.