Can you please start by explaining a little bit about what you do now?
I look after the procurement activities at R&W Scott, this covers procurement of the raw materials and packaging used on site, utilities such as gas and electricity right down to the cups we drink water from.
Raw materials such as fruit, cocoa powder, oils, and sugar all have different growing and harvest seasons throughout the year, therefore, procurement activities will vary depending on which commodity is in season. Purchasing strategies are developed to ensure we are cost effective whilst maintaining quality and supply. Every pound saved in procurement goes straight to the bottom line so reducing spend is a key objective of procurement.
Procurement is one of the functions in the business which has dealings with all other departments as well as a stand-alone role. I work with NPD in new product development; supply chain in material availability; technical in ensuring that suppliers and procured items meet quality standards; finance in ensuring money is spent efficiently and within budget; and the commercial team in growing sales.
My day tends to start with reviewing the markets, as our products are commodities and influenced by many external factors (currency, wars, political unrest etc). This impacts material pricing and availability; it is my job to manage and mitigate any potential risks that could affect the business from operating. You would be surprised how a government election in Africa can affect our factory based in Carluke!
As Head of Procurement at R&W Scott I strive to ensure that suppliers are servicing the business to the highest of standards by the 5 rights of procurement: price, product, quantity, quality, and place.
As a supply chain we are only as good as our weakest link and procurement play a vital role in ensuring the upstream & downstream supply chains runs smoothly and efficiently.
Catherine Prentice
Head of Procurement
How long have you worked at R&W Scott?
I have had the privilege of working at R&W Scott for 17 years this year, my career within the business has developed as follows:
Is this the job you had always planned to do?
My intention was always to become a classical studies teacher but upon finishing high school and going on to university I took an admin job - that admin job turned out to be a stepping stone in a career in manufacturing. Once I started working in the world of manufacturing, I knew I wanted to work in the procurement function, as I was interested in the procurement activities that go on in a business that many people are not aware of.
What advice would you give to someone joining the business?
Raise your hand and ask for help if unsure of anything. Every person in the business will help and there is no such thing as a stupid question!
What's your favourite product - past or present?
NAS Raspberry Jam and all of the Soft Fillings - I have a sweet tooth!
What would you say your biggest achievement is?
What does #BreakTheBias mean to you?
Opportunity for all, regardless of the characteristics that make someone unique or part of a group that is distinguished by characteristics.
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