40 Under 40: Heather Ek
Director of Purchasing, Coachmen RV; With company: 8 years | Industry experience: 12 years
Heather Ek has worked hard to become the first woman in many years to have earned a director role in a male dominated industry as Coachmen’s director of purchasing, a position she was elevated to in 2021 after serving as divisional purchasing manager.
“She has done an exceptional job,” a peer says. “Her knowledge of the industry and our suppliers is second to none.”
When Heather first began her career at Coachmen in 2018, she quickly gained a thorough understanding of its systems and implemented meaningful improvements in efficiency within her division. Under her leadership, the organization experienced a measurable reduction in shortages, more competitive procurement practices and the development of stronger internal and external partnerships.
In 2021, she accepted the newly established position of director of purchasing and was tasked to provide strategic guidance and support to purchasing agents, enhancing both their day-to-day operations and the achievement of long-term organizational objectives. She assists 10 general managers and their buyers in sourcing products, as well as following up with vendors and training all of the buyers within the Coachmen complex.
“Rather than relying on titles or authority, Heather has led by example by overcoming a male-dominated industry,” another peer states. “Her determination not only helps her reach her own goals, but also inspires others around her to push harder and believe in their own abilities.”
In the post-COVID-19 rush and chaotic market environment, Heather successfully managed pricing adjustments, negotiated material costs when necessary and ensured timely deliveries. She currently serves on several committees, including the Corporate IT Steering Committee and the Purchasing Group Committee. Both play an important part in driving company-wide improvements in efficiency and effectiveness across parts and service, material procurement and purchasing processes.
Over the past year, Heather has identified hundreds of thousands of dollars in material shipping errors and collaborated with both vendors and internal receiving teams to correct and prevent them. In addition, she has streamlined processes to enhance efficiency across both internal and external supply chain operations.
In her spare time, Heather enjoys traveling and spending time with her family, volunteers with several organizations and participates in many industry philanthropies. She has been active in Bids 4 Kids, Boys and Girls Club, RVIA park improvement projects, and even brought out her dancing shoes with Elkhart Dancing with the Stars.
What does it mean to you to be a 40 Under 40 honoree as part of the RV industry?
Be true to yourself. Never be afraid to ask for help or to ask questions. At the end of the day, our goal is to give the best experience possible to our customers and that takes a team effort.
What does it mean to you to be a 40 Under 40 honoree as part of the RV industry?
Being recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree is an incredible honor. This is a chance to reflect on how far we have come as an industry. I would not be where am I am today without the support of my husband and the amazing team I am blessed to work with. This recognition motivates me to continue to push forward for others in the industry who want to make a difference.
