Imagile Professional Services Limited’s (“IPSL”) vision is to provide optimal, performance-driven asset management through a wide range of knowledge and expertise. Its comprehensive network of strategic partners built over the years, plays a crucial role in providing clients with the highest levels of service and is fundamental to IPSL’s approach in the infrastructure market.
The importance of effective supply chain management should never be underestimated. Not only does a trusted network of partners allow firms to improve their customer service, it also provides better value for clients.
Wayne Lewis, Sector Head: Procurement manages IPSL’s collaboration with trusted and reliable partners offering a vast range of services. Wayne joined IPSL over four years ago and has become an invaluable member of the fast-growing team.
Here, Wayne talks about what his role involves and why effective collaborative relationships are so important.
What is your role at IPSL?
I am responsible for the development, implementation and on-going management of the procurement strategy for IPSL. I ensure legal compliance of procurement policy and supporting legislation across the wider Imagile Group, whilst also working to generate value for money for IPSL and its clients.
My role is incredibly varied and each day can be very different. A typical day will include leading the development and implementation of procurement policies and commodity strategies to support tendering activities, pre- qualification of selected suppliers using an integrated supplier qualification process, supplier performance monitoring using key performance indicators. I also manage financial and counter-party risk, taking into consideration client feedback.
An important part of my job is managing the development of new supply chains, mitigating any risks using via supplier relationship management (SRM) techniques. Key to this is the execution of excellent and effective collaborative relationships with key stakeholders, external suppliers and other parties to ensure strategic and operational needs are fully understood and incorporated. Last but by no means least, it’s my job to promote the importance of procurement across the organisation and champion best practice through continuous improvement.
How did you get into the profession?
Gosh, I could talk about this forever! But to summarise it, in 1974, at the tender age of 15, I left school and joined the Royal Navy. In the Navy I trained as a chef which led me into catering and then stores management. I served on H.M.S. Ark Royal which was a fantastic experience and taught me a lot that I still apply in my role today.
I then joined British Aerospace as a buyer spending time in the Middle East, then moving into construction and the manufacturing sectors, successfully implementing major multimillion-pound contracts around the globe as well as in UK. I’ve also worked hard to secure qualifications over the years and I have a degree in Business and Management Studies and I am qualified as a Chartered Procurement and Supply Professional MCIPS.
What are some of the USPs for your area of the business?
There are so many, however, I like to focus my attention on delivering highly successful business improvements and sustainability within the supply chain, with a major focus on long-term supplier relationships. These are so important and having suppliers you know and trust to provide a fantastic service is exactly what our clients want.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I really thrive on engaging with people and deeply care about what I do. I fell in love with procurement and I want others to see why I personally am proud to represent IPSL in my position. This role allows me to be an advocate for procurement and to really push the boundaries of where we can add value for clients, whilst connecting with my peers and building collaborative relationships.
What’s the most challenging part?
Every day is different but recognising that I have objectives to meet means that it is imperative that I remain focused on contributing to the success of the Imagile Group through those of our clients.
If you would like any further information on supply chain management or any other of IPSL’s services, please do not hesitate to contact Wayne Lewis (Wayne.lewis@imagileps.com) or Laura Evans – Business Development Manager (Laura.evans@imagileps.com)
