Insight into market dynamics with the Purchasing Manager of RGPBALLS

Visit her LinkedIn profile: Olga Samokhualova.

1. A BRIEF INTRODUCTION, WHAT DOES YOUR ROLE CONSIST OF AND HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THIS ROLE AT RGPBALLS?

‘I have been working as part of the purchasing team at RGPBALLS for over a decade, with the last seven years dedicated to leading the department.

My primary responsibility is to lead the entire procurement process, including selecting reliable suppliers and negotiating optimal contracts that guarantee not only the best price but also the best quality and service.

In addition, I manage a complex supply chain, constantly aiming to maximise efficiency and maintain high quality standards of the final product.’

2.WHAT ARE THE MAIN STRATEGIES THAT GUIDE PURCHASING AT RGPBALLS?

‘RGPBALLS’ purchasing strategy is based on quality and building lasting and mutually beneficial relationships with suppliers.

We especially value ties with our historical partners in China, which have been developed and consolidated over time.

The aim is transcending the simple business transaction to create an ecosystem of collaboration. 

Finally, we are committed to proactively responding to our customers’ needs, offering solutions that balance quality, cost and delivery time.’

3.HOW HAVE RGPBALLS’ PURCHASING APPROACHES EVOLVED OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS?

‘Over the past few years, we have, like everyone else, faced challenges related to longer transit times firstly due to Covid and then due to global military conflicts.

In this regard, we have tried to prevent delays by expanding our stock of standard items and creating safety stock of some specific items for critical sectors, in which it is not always easy to predict demand trends.

The crucial point always remains the quality-price ratio: we give high priority to the quality of our product, while always trying to keep our prices in line with market trends.’

4. WHAT IS THE MAIN CRITERION FOR SELECTING SUPPLIERS FOR RGPBALLS?

‘As mentioned above, the indispensable criterion for RGPBALLS is undoubtedly quality.

The supplier must be assessed from the point of view of the prices they offer but for leadtime, cooperation and support they offer after receiving feedback from our laboratory.

To evaluate this we make several test orders and if we see that the level of quality remains the same as the first evaluations, they become our established supplier.’

5. HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE CHALLENGES ASSOCIATED WITH THE GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN?

‘To mitigate the risks associated with the global supply chain, we have adopted strategies such as diversifying supply routes and creating safety stockpiles.

In addition, during the pandemic we worked with logistics partners to secure alternative shipping routes, thereby minimising the impact of delays.’

6. WHAT HAS BEEN THE IMPACT OF DIGITISATION ON RGPBALLS’ PURCHASING DEPARTMENT?

‘Industrial digitisation has brought about a radical transformation in our purchasing department.

With the introduction of advanced software such as MRP, we have been able to refine our forecasts and optimise stock management. 

Indeed, this technology makes it possible for us to react promptly to market fluctuations and ensure business continuity despite global challenges.’

7.WHAT HAS BEEN THE ROLE OF THE PURCHASING DEPARTMENT IN SUPPORTING RGPBALLS’ GROWTH?

‘The purchasing department has played a crucial role in supporting RGPBALLS’ growth.

Our ability to ensure a steady flow of high quality materials has enabled the company to keep producing without interruption, which is essential to our success in the global marketplace.

Our proactive strategy and focus on quality have contributed significantly to RGPBALLS’ reputation as a leader in the precision ball industry.’

Explore innovation and quality with RGPBALLS
Contact our team for customised solutions that raise the standards of your industry

CONTACT US