Meet Critical Input Senior Consultant Carmen Langdon

In the dynamic realm of procurement, logistics, and stakeholder engagement, Carmen Langdon emerges as a seasoned professional with more than 25 years of hands-on experience. As a Senior Consultant at CRITICAL INPUT, Carmen’s journey has been defined by an impressive array of accomplishments, reflecting her commitment to excellence and innovation. We sat down with Carmen to delve into her expertise, career highlights, and the unique qualities she brings to her role.

What led you into this type of work? 

My career path has been marked by diverse roles in customer liaison, administration, warehousing, logistics, postal and freight services, and procurement. However, my true passion lies in procurement and contracts. With expertise across various industries and sectors, I’m thrilled to have joined Critical Input, where impactful work and collaboration drive my enthusiasm for what I do.

What do you bring to Critical Input that is unique and beneficial to clients? 

My versatile expertise, positive outlook, and exceptional rapport-building skills set me apart. I create strong relationships and attentively address client needs. This unique combination enables seamless collaboration with colleagues and provides clients with personalised experiences to achieve their goals.

Do you have a particular career highlight? 

Two highlights stand out: sourcing extreme cold weather clothing for Australian schoolchildren’s Antarctic trip and receiving a service excellence award from customers during my early career. Both experiences affirmed the impact of my work and dedication.

Describe a typical day at Critical Input…

Every day at Critical Input is a mix of exciting challenges and rewarding interactions. I engage in meetings, collaborate with an exceptional team, identify issues, and work on innovative solutions. Embracing a dynamic environment that fosters growth and progress, each day offers opportunities for meaningful contributions.

Is there a particular type of work you enjoy the most? 

Procurement and contracts work aligns best with my strengths. My strategic thinking, negotiation skills, and attention to detail shine here. Building robust relationships with stakeholders and suppliers is where I thrive.

What are common client mistakes in people and processes? 

Overcomplicating processes and underestimating the significance of strong relationships with stakeholders and suppliers are common mistakes. Simplifying processes and investing in relationships contribute to streamlined operations and favourable outcomes.

How do you know when you’ve done a good job or when a project is a success? Meeting project objectives within deadlines and achieving tangible improvements indicate success. Unsolicited positive feedback from stakeholders and clients further affirms excellence in my role.

If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be? 

I would eradicate bullying in all forms, fostering a culture of kindness, empathy, and respect.

What’s a fun fact about you? 

I have a passion for cooking, especially creating delightful treats and hosting themed dinner parties. My culinary enthusiasm has led to unforgettable dining experiences shared with friends and family.

Fast facts on Carmen Langdon:

Qualifications: Certificate 4 Project Management

Expertise/Specialty: Contracts & procurement, warehousing & logistics, stakeholder liaison, administration, and customer relations

Years of Experience: 25+ years

Six core strengths:

1. Exceptional interpersonal skills
2. Positive can-do attitude
3. Precise attention to detail
4. Outstanding time management and organisation
5. Analytical and strategic thinker
6. Effective stakeholder management.

Six recent highlights: 

1. Relocating to Brisbane, embracing new opportunities
2. Joining the Critical Input team with pride
3. Overhauling the purchase order process at TasWater
4. Contributing to a warehouse clean-up project at CSA mine
5. Pioneering the introduction of a female clothing line at the Australian Antarctica Clothing Store
6. Facilitating the first-ever Australian Antarctic trip for schoolchildren as part of a project team.