Since joining SFCHC in April 2016, Purchasing/Facilities Manager José Bolaños has become an integral part of our organization. Initially hired as part of an interim accounting team, José quickly demonstrated his talents and abilities, leading to his permanent employment in January 2017.
Previously, José worked in accounting for a company that manufactured organic formula for toddlers and infants. This role was multifaceted, involving everything from taste-testing and packaging to representing the company at food conventions across the country.
At SFCHC, José helps maintain an environment that ensures an optimal experience for both patients and staff. He collaborates closely with department managers to maintain inventory, ensure equipment upkeep and oversee maintenance of the premises. This involves a wide range of tasks, from ordering, receiving and distributing supplies to facilitating repairs and arranging access for contract workers.
In partnership with SFCHC’s Medical Assistant Manager Priscila Knight, José helps ensure inventory is maintained to keep exam rooms properly supplied. On the administrative side, he provides staff with necessary office supplies, furniture and equipment.
Thanks to José’s desire to create a warm and welcoming environment, SFCHC team members enjoy break rooms stocked with coffee, tea, snacks, and treats, as well as personal touches like décor and flower arrangements.
Last year was particularly challenging for José during a clinic-wide renovation involving floors, lighting, ductwork and more. This work required temporarily closing wings, relocating departments and rerouting access, but José and the SFCHC team powered through together. With more renovation work and disruptions happening in July, José feels confident they are up to the task.
“I think my work here is important because it touches on almost all aspects of organizational functions – from the technical, fiscal and logistical to the social and sometimes personal,” said Jose. "I have established strong relationships of trust with both my superiors and peers, and always keep the best interests of the organization in mind. I accept every task and have never uttered the phrase ‘that’s not my job.’”
José loves that the community feels genuinely seen and served by SFCHC, noting that many patients were born at the clinic when it initially served as a hospital. “Our SFCHC team takes pride in knowing that we continue to serve the community. Even patients that no longer live in the neighborhood come back for healthcare services because they trust us, and that trust is invaluable.”
José, who is of Salvadorian descent, has been a resident of Los Angeles almost his entire life. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling, reading and spending time with his brother, sister, three nephews and two nieces. He hopes to start a family of his own in the future.
