Tom Lanning

As Head of Purchasing, I oversee the ordering of vehicle parts, ensuring cost-effective sourcing and the timely delivery of high-quality components. I place purchase orders, track shipments, and manage inventory levels to ensure parts are available when needed. I organise and oversee the stocktake, maintaining accurate inventory records to meet production demands. I manage the flow of vehicles into the workshop based on production times, coordinating with relevant departments to optimise efficiency and minimise downtime. I produce spreadsheets to track component builds and monitor workflow into the machine and fabrication shops. Additionally, I research and identify potential suppliers, building and maintaining relationships to ensure they meet quality and delivery standards. I analyse costs, identify potential savings, and implement strategies to reduce expenses without compromising quality or delivery. I communicate with suppliers and internal teams to ensure smooth operations, addressing any issues promptly. I also ensure that parts meet quality standards by conducting inspections and managing returns or replacements when necessary.

As a Motor Vehicle Parts Purchasing Assistant, I supported the procurement of vehicle parts by researching and sourcing components, communicating with suppliers, and processing purchase orders and related documentation. I assisted in negotiating prices, arranged deliveries, and ensured parts met required specifications and quality standards. I maintained accurate records, tracked orders, and provided administrative support to the Purchasing Manager to ensure efficient and cost-effective operations.

I assessed customer warranty claims to determine if they met company criteria and handled all aspects of the claims process, including taking detailed reports, issuing forms, and coordinating with customers and workshops. I verified policy coverage and premium payments, provided guidance throughout the process, and ensured timely claim payments. I maintained daily reporting for approved and paid claims and supported the team by ensuring all necessary documentation was collected. My focus was on delivering a smooth, satisfactory customer experience, regardless of claim outcome, which contributed to over 80 positive TrustPilot reviews on claims I managed.

In this role, I managed stock levels and placed orders to meet demand, receipted stock daily against delivery notes and invoices, and regularly reported sales to line managers in weekly meetings. I produced weekly reports, monitored KPIs, and conducted daily perpetual stock checks. I worked closely with internal staff across all departments, coordinated deliveries to meet customer needs, controlled overage and obsolete stock on a monthly basis, and ensured stock was accurately located in bin locations.

I began my career here as an apprentice and successfully completed my apprenticeship in Vehicle Parts Operation on 17 March 2009. During my time in the role, I supplied motor vehicle parts to retail and trade customers, as well as technicians. My responsibilities included receipting parts, processing returns and warranty items, providing excellent customer service, handling inbound customer enquiries and orders, and raising invoices for parts sold.