Short-term support also for medium-sized companies
The need for competent and effective purchasing management is essential for companies, especially for medium-sized businesses. In many cases, however, there is a temporary need for experienced managers, whether due to staff shortages or special projects. This is where interim purchasing managers come into play. As interim managers, they provide short-term support and assume responsibility for the purchasing area.
This article takes a closer look at the benefits and characteristics of these specialized professionals and explains their valuable contribution to companies of various sizes. For this purpose, Ludovic Montécot, Senior Manager at the Kloepfel Group, summarizes his experience with interim management in purchasing.
Tasks of an interim manager as purchasing manager in medium-sized companies. What is special about being a buyer in an interim position?
An interim manager as purchasing manager of a medium-sized company has the task to take over short-term control of the purchasing department. For this purpose, it is necessary that he has specialist knowledge and experience in order to familiarize himself quickly, to convince the team and to implement effective measures.
What are the typical challenges for an interim manager?
The typical challenges for an interim manager can be summarized in three points.
First, a quick familiarization with the respective area is essential, regardless of whether it is the automotive industry or other sectors.
Secondly, it is crucial that the interim manager is accepted by the team. He or she must be a team player, even in the circle of people whom he or she has only recently met and who may have more expertise.
The third challenge is to achieve sustainable results and “not leave scorched earth”. The long-term well-being of the client is the focus, not a rash of meaningless interactionism.
Approximately how quickly can an interim manager learn the ropes and fit into the team?
An interim manager can usually fully familiarize himself with a new position and integrate into the team within two weeks. In specific industries, such as the automotive industry, this process can even be completed within a week. By using a personalized questionnaire, the interim manager is able to efficiently set up the first meetings and get to know the relevant people. This ability is often admired by clients and leaves a positive impression.
What are the advantages of interim management compared to the permanent hiring of a purchasing manager?
Interim management offers several advantages compared to the permanent hiring of a purchasing manager. The biggest advantage is the special expertise that interim managers have for different industries. An interim manager from the Kloepfel Group can also draw on the network of the entire group of companies if necessary. There is then a great deal of know-how available for purchasing – across all industries.
In contrast to a permanent purchasing manager, who is usually only active in one specific industry, interim managers have a broader portfolio of experience. This gives them a comprehensive market overview and the ability to adapt best practices and successful approaches from different industries. With their diverse knowledge, interim managers can bring innovative solutions to the purchasing process, increasing efficiency.
What goals and outcomes can be achieved in the field?
Although time constraints play a role, there are still clear goals to achieve. One important goal is to keep the team together and address any doubts employees may have due to the lack of a permanent purchasing manager.
The strategic orientation of purchasing must not be neglected. For this, it is the task of the interim manager to prepare necessary measures and to achieve the goals. Through their experience, interim managers bring a special understanding of processes. In this way, interim managers can make an important contribution to optimizing processes and increasing efficiency. When using an interim purchasing manager, the focus is clearly on process optimization before strategic realignment.
How do employees generally react to an interim project?
During such a project, employees usually react positively to working with the interim manager. Open and clear communication is crucial. In this context, the interim manager makes constructive suggestions for improvement instead of simply voicing criticism.
Employees appreciate the supportive and accompanying role of the interim manager. Respect and trust towards employees are very important. A good interim manager trusts employees and involves them in decision-making processes and negotiations.
In conclusion: recommendations for companies thinking about hiring an interim managerustellen
To get the most out of an interim project, it is crucial to set clear goals and define them together.
Every company has different needs and priorities. Therefore, it is important that the client establishes clear responsibilities and authorities. Regular exchanges, ideally on a monthly basis, allow for continuous review and adjustment of the approach. It has been shown that such an approach is very effective.
Then, once again, the reference to the interim manager’s ability to work in a team. He or she should be able to work in a cooperative manner and have an overall empathetic, collegial demeanor.
Does your company need temporary support in purchasing management?
The Kloepfel Group offers you the solution: Interim managers as experienced purchasing managers who are ready for flexible deployment. Our experts have the necessary expertise to quickly fit into your team and effectively achieve your goals. You can rely on our many years of experience and benefit from customized solutions.
Contact us and secure temporary support for your purchasing department from qualified interim managers.
Contact:
Kloepfel Group
Christopher Willson
Tel.: 0211 941 984 33 | Mail: rendite@kloepfel-consulting.com