Optimising Retail Procurement with Advanced Contract Lifecycle Management 

Client Challenge: Inefficient Contract Management Affecting Procurement Effectiveness 

The client, a prominent player in the safety wear market with annual revenues exceeding €500m, faced significant challenges with their existing procurement process. Operating in industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, the company’s contract management lacked sufficient visibility, resulting in inefficiencies and reactive procurement practices. The absence of a centralised system for tracking contract milestones, renewal dates, and obligations reduced their negotiating power with suppliers and hindered their ability to maximise savings. Furthermore, the client struggled to implement a structured Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) framework, which weakened relationships with strategic suppliers over time. 

Client Need: Expertise in Streamlining Procurement and Supplier Relationships 

Saros Consulting was selected for this project due to our proven expertise in optimising procurement processes and enhancing supplier relationship management. We understood the complexities of managing contracts and supplier relationships across a global operation, particularly in highly regulated sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. Our strategic approach, backed by deep technical knowledge, ensured we could deliver tailored solutions to drive both immediate and long-term improvements in contract management and procurement efficiency. 

Saros Consulting Approach: Best-Practice Frameworks Uniquely Tailored 

Saros Consulting took a structured approach, focusing on aligning the client’s procurement practices with industry best standards. Over a 14-week period, we implemented a centralised contract repository, enabling proactive contract management. This system allowed the client to track key performance indicators (KPIs), service level agreements (SLAs), and contract milestones in real-time, improving visibility and control. We also introduced an SRM framework to strengthen relationships with strategic suppliers, fostering collaboration and continuous improvement. By automating manual processes and standardising contract templates, we empowered the client to reduce inefficiencies and increase procurement effectiveness. 

Saros Consulting Delivery 

• Contract Repository: A centralised system to manage and track contract data, enhancing visibility of key milestones and obligations. 

• Supplier Relationship Management Framework: Implemented a structured SRM model to improve collaboration with key suppliers and ensure performance consistency. 

• Process Automation: Automated manual processes, including contract tracking and renewals, to reduce delays and streamline workflows. 

• Standardised Templates: Developed standardised contract templates and negotiation guidelines to ensure consistency and compliance across all supplier agreements. 

• Sustainable Savings Opportunities: Identified achievable cost-saving measures to maximise procurement efficiency and improve long-term supplier relationships. 

The Outcome: Enhanced Efficiencies, Stronger Supplier Relationships, Cost Savings and Growth Opportunities. 

The project resulted in a complete transformation of the client’s procurement operations. By centralising contract management and automating key processes, Saros Consulting enabled the client to take a more proactive approach to procurement, leading to improved contract visibility and enhanced supplier relationships. The SRM framework helped solidify long-term partnerships with key suppliers, fostering collaboration and better contract outcomes. Additionally, the client achieved significant cost savings through optimised procurement practices, positioning them for future growth and operational excellence. 

Saros Consulting Capabilities 

• Contract Lifecycle Management (CLM): Expertise in streamlining procurement processes and enhancing contract efficiency. 

• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Implementing structured SRM frameworks to strengthen supplier partnerships. 

• Process Automation: Driving efficiencies through automated workflows and standardisation. 

• Procurement Governance: Enhancing visibility and control over contract performance and obligations. 

• Cost Optimisation: Identifying sustainable savings opportunities within procurement practices. 

This project underscores Saros Consulting’s ability to deliver tailored procurement solutions that optimise contract management processes while enhancing supplier relationships and delivering measurable cost savings.