Welcoming Bryon Gilstrap, UVA Finance’s New Sourcing Director

The Gilstraps

UVAFinance is excited to welcome Bryon Gilstrap to the Procurement Team as our new Sourcing Director. An Illinois native, Gilstrap comes to us most recently from Columbia College Chicago and brings more than 20 years of procurement and supply chain leadership spanning higher education, healthcare, and global organizations. 

His career began in healthcare at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, where an entry-level buyer role sparked his passion for using data to streamline processes and improve business outcomes. His later career saw the expansion of his leadership roles in both healthcare and higher education.

Gilstrap has broadened his career with an Executive MBA from the University of Illinois and even international work on a major procurement project in Saudi Arabia. 

A Journey to Charlottesville

Gilstrap’s first connection to Charlottesville came decades ago, during his time in the Navy. On a mountain biking trip with friends, he camped in the Shenandoah Valley and was struck by the area’s beauty. 

When he and his wife, Denise, began planning their move from Illinois, the East Coast was a natural choice for its proximity to family.  Once Gilstrap visited Grounds for his interview, he was convinced UVA was the right decision. 

“People here seemed to care about their work, and leadership was moving in the right direction. My only worry was whether my wife and daughter would love the mountains, but once we came house-hunting, they loved it as well,” he says.

Excitement for the Work Ahead

Since joining on September 22, Gilstrap has been impressed by the strength of the Procurement team and the culture within UVA Finance:

“Usually in transformational roles, there’s a gap in experience, data, or mindset. But here, people are ready to go. The team has strong relationships, a lot of retained knowledge, and great leadership support. Yes, we have the tools and data, but most importantly, we have the people.”

His leadership philosophy centers on three pillars: collaboration, transparency, and integrity. He believes procurement is at its best when teams celebrate wins together, even if recognition from the field is rare.  

“You can’t fake it in procurement,” he comments.  “You either love it or you don’t. What makes it rewarding is the interaction with people, the debates that challenge the status quo, and ultimately making the decisions that bring the most value to the university.

Looking Ahead

With their adult sons (Caleb and Branden) being out of the house, Bryon, Denise, and their daughter Averie are looking forward to settling into Virginia life,  traveling, exploring Charlottesville, and enjoying UVA sporting events.

Gilstrap’s experience, values, and leadership will be invaluable as UVA Finance continues to strengthen procurement. Please join us in welcoming him to the team!

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Related Content:  Procurement Transformation / Celebrating Growth on the Procurement Team