Training helps Rok and NG Bailey to save on procurement: Building firms increase the professionalism of their purchasing teams

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to argue that procurement practices in the construction industry, and building‐services in particular, have lagged behind other industries. It also aims to highlight the efforts of two UK construction companies, Rok and NG Bailey, to make procurement more unified and professional in their businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines how the programs were designed and delivered and the improvements they have brought.

Findings

The paper shows that training for supply‐chain employees is saving Rok, one of the UK's 20 largest building companies, more than £1.5 million a year, while training at national building‐services company NG Bailey has created a professional procurement function delivering real results, with consistently high levels of credibility across the business.

Practical implications

The paper reveals how training helped both firms to overcome problems of managing projects in isolation, and failing to realize economies of scale.

Originality/value

The paper describes two award‐winning training initiatives that appear to have resulted in real commercial benefits.

Citation

(2009), "Training helps Rok and NG Bailey to save on procurement: Building firms increase the professionalism of their purchasing teams", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 17 No. 4, pp. 30-31. https://doi.org/10.1108/09670730910963316