en
United Kingdom
Sometimes, following the advice of others is the best strategy, even for entrepreneurs who like to forge their own path. The Sourcing Team (The Team) is a case in point. Because they remained committed, patient, persistent and proactive–following the advice of other member buyers–they were able to build a lasting supplier relationship with Enterprise Rent-A-Car that continues to expand.
It all started with an introduction to Enterprise representatives at a WEConnect International event hosted by IBM. After the event in 2014, The Sourcing Team met Caroline Howarth and Janene Scurfield at Enterprise’s regional headquarters in Nottingham, which led to an opportunity to provide merchandise to the company’s recruitment team. After presenting their capabilities, and a little back and forth, they were selected as a second-tier supply partner. Enterprise said their selection was based on The Team’s competitive bid and its proven expertise in offering a full range of brand-consistent merchandise along with collation and delivery to multiple European locations.
“The Sourcing Team offered a personal, tailored service that supported us in delivering a wide range of merchandise throughout Europe. Thank you.” Ashley Hever – Talent Acquisition Director at Enterprise Rent-A-Car (UK & Ireland)
The Team continued to build their relationship with Enterprise at WEConnect International events, where Enterprise demonstrates their commitment to maintaining a diverse supplier base. The Team further strengthened those bonds by attending Enterprise-hosted diversity and inclusion events.
An opportunity to tender as a first-tier supply partner came in 2018 after engaging with Enterprise’s procurement, talent and events teams in the UK. The Team won the tender for student and event merchandise for 2018 Freshers Week.
The order included water bottles, energy drinks, note pads, post-it notes, index tabs, pens, tote bags, table cloths, pull-up banners and display stands, which were then distributed to multiple business units across the UK, Ireland, Germany, France and Spain.
“Enterprise is committed to increasing opportunities for suppliers that are as diverse as the communities where we live, work and serve. We believe that supplier diversity helps drive innovation, deliver value and provides us with a competitive advantage.” Vanessa Moore – Head of Procurement and Supply Chain (UK and Ireland)
“WEConnect International is about connecting people. To drive success, a corporation must engage with WBE’s and become a ‘match maker’ within their organisation. The Enterprise Rent-A-Car team do this amazingly well – thank you.” Gill Thorpe – CEO & Founder, The Sourcing Team
