Driving Innovation: Implementing Contractor Connect

At Gallagher, we're always looking for ways to innovate and improve our processes. That's why I was excited to take on the challenge of implementing Contractor Connect, a Vendor Management System (VMS) that would transform how we manage our contingent workforce. By collaborating across different departments and leveraging unique perspectives of my colleagues, we were able to create a solution that exceeded expectations and positioned Gallagher as an industry leader.

The Power of Collaboration

My first step was to initiate engagement with stakeholders from various business groups and divisions to ensure that the solution met everyone's needs. This meant working closely with our vendor partner and cross-functional teams from technology, finance, accounting, procurement, compliance, legal, integrations, and data warehousing. With diverse insights, we addressed potential roadblocks early on.

But we encountered numerous challenges, from aligning various stakeholders to ensuring dedicated resources throughout the project. Along the way, we championed these challenges by creating a clear communication plan, holding regular meetings, and forming a cross-functional team to maintain focus and alignment. Through these shared efforts, we were able to bring a much-awaited tool to life which streamlined our processes and improved efficiency, driving forward with resilience and collaboration.

The Impact of Innovation

I have been thrilled to see how transformative the overall process has been. We can now forecast our contingent workforce costs months in advance, helping my team stay within budget and align our resources effectively. Every contingent assignment has its own budget allocation, which gives us a clearer financial picture and keeps us accountable.”

Automating many of our previously manual tasks has not only saved time but has also increased the accuracy and security of our systems. For instance, I no longer need to manually track when a contractor’s assignment ends—the system automatically revokes access, giving me peace of mind about security. This allows me to focus on creating a more cohesive work environment where everyone is aware of budget constraints and works together toward shared goals.

I feel empowered to keep pushing for improvements that make a tangible difference for our team and for Gallagher as a whole.

Team Makes the Dream Work - Future Opportunities

Throughout this journey, I had unwavering support from leadership and cross-functional teams. It gave me the confidence to think of creative solutions, while quality assurance teams tested the solution against our requirements. Data collection and validation teams streamlined launch activities, and technology teams worked tirelessly on integrations to automate many previously manual functions. Collaboration and feedback were also crucial in helping us uncover blind spots.

Looking ahead, I see boundless potential to expand Contractor Connect across global operations. Each new country will introduce distinct legislative and tax requirements, adding complexity—and opportunities for growth. With data analytics and machine learning, we could streamline the matching of contractors to roles and cut down time-to-fill rates. Exploring new partnerships with emerging tech companies could also provide access to cutting-edge tools and platforms that revolutionize how we source, engage, and retain talent.

Recognition and Achievements

Receiving Staffing Industry Analysts' Game Changer Award in 2024 was an incredible honor that recognized our team’s hard work and innovation. This achievement, celebrated within the contingent workforce and staffing industry, has only fueled my drive to continue pushing the boundaries.

Another highlight has been the privilege of being asked to join the Customer Advisory Board for Simplify, which has given me an opportunity to contribute insights and help shape industry solutions. I’m excited to see where we can take this solution next and explore new ways to contribute to Gallagher’s vision for the future.

At Gallagher, we value creativity, risk-taking, and the pursuit of fresh ideas. This culture has pushed me to explore possibilities, confidently take steps that drive change and has been instrumental in my personal and professional growth, allowing me to live out the Growth for the Go-Getter values in everything I do.