You can’t build a high-performing DSO—or even a profitable single location—without tight procurement systems. In this episode, Greg sits down with Karla-Marie Santiago, MBA, an operations and procurement powerhouse, to unpack how procurement strategy can make or break growth in the dental industry. From equipment forecasting to vendor alignment to e-procurement tech, Karla drops practical, real-world insight for DSOs ready to stop winging it and start optimizing.
EPISODE SNAPSHOT
With 15+ years in healthcare and a decade in dental operations, Karla-Marie Santiago has led procurement strategies across dental education, nonprofits, and DSOs. In this conversation, she and Greg break down why procurement isn’t a back-office function—it’s a strategic driver. Whether you’re adding implants, building de novos, or trying to lower overhead, Karla makes the case that knowing your inventory, streamlining platforms, and aligning vendor partnerships is mission-critical.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
Why procurement must be aligned with operations and finance
How to forecast equipment needs (replacement vs. growth)
What centralized procurement can unlock for scaling practices
What to ask vendors beyond pricing—and why that matters
What to look for in an e-procurement platform (think: Amazon for your ops team)
MIC DROP MOMENT
“Operations and procurement are directly co-related. You can’t run ops without the supplies, tech, and equipment that make care possible.” – Karla-Marie Santiago
RESOURCES MENTIONED
E-procurement platforms (Method, Torch Dental, etc.)
Annual capital planning strategies
Why invoice and inventory integration is essential for DSOs
WHERE TO LEARN MORE
📨 Connect with Karla on LinkedIn: Karla-Marie Santiago
📬 Consulting inquiries: karla@cabaretta-consulting-group.com
