PCL’s New Senior Buyer to Focus On Supply Chain Efficiency

17th July 2020

PCL continues to strengthen its expert team with the appointment of Aaron Williams as Senior Buyer.

Aaron joins PCL following roles at Anixter, the global distributor of network and security, electrical, electronic and utility power solutions; and Victor Marine, specialists in the design and manufacture of tank washing machines, gas freeing fans and oily water separators.

Aaron spent 11 years at Anixter, working his way up from Junior Buyer to Category Lead, dealing with big contracts including Babcock and BAE, ensuring they had the MRO products required to build ships and aeroplanes, from PPE to industrial consumables such as tools, seals and gaskets.

Aaron then moved to the post of Purchasing Manager at Victor Marine, becoming heavily involved in operations and responsible for all procurement.

His extensive strategic experience within a massive global operation, combined with operational skills developed at a smaller manufacturing company makes Aaron ideal for the position of Senior Buyer at PCL, where he has taken charge of daily sourcing, negotiation, procurement and logistics of goods and services.

Aaron said:

“PCL has the structure and support network needed to help you work effectively and make progress. I feel I can make a difference and see the benefit of that difference.”

At Anixter Aaron’s focus was driving forward efficiency in the supply chain, and he aims to introduce a similar strategy to supplier selection at PCL. He said:

“Choosing key suppliers where you have a relationship means they are more willing to support with rebates and stock holding and you can then do the same for the customer, so there are no gaps in the supply chain.”

Joining PCL just before closures due to COVID-19 has given Aaron time to get to grips with PCL’s operation from a strategic point of view. He has been working from home since his appointment in March but met the team before lockdown and was introduced to his newly appointed boss, Operations Director Dean Battersby, remotely. Aaron is confident they have the same goals.

He said:

“A big draw for me is how committed PCL is to the team and developing its staff. I feel I will have the opportunity to progress whilst using my experience to evolve the department and move it forward to bring supply chain efficiency.”

Welcoming Aaron to PCL, Finance Director Roz Shepherd said:

“Joining in the midst of a pandemic is a challenge, but Aaron has quickly got to grips with our operations and we are confident he has the expertise to get the supply chain working harder for us, bringing benefits for both PCL and our customers that will be especially welcome during these difficult times. We are delighted to have him on board.”