Interview | Insights from ZKTeco Europe’s Operations and Logistics teams
ZKTeco Europe understands that seamless logistics and purchasing are essential for customer satisfaction. To guarantee efficient operations and timely deliveries, we rely on a dedicated behind-the-scenes team. In this interview, we introduce Daniela Muruzabal, Operations Manager, and Carlos Asensio, Logistics Manager. They will share their expertise and insights on how ZKTeco Europe keeps things running smoothly, ensuring our partners receive the products they need when they need them.
Daniela Muruzabal, Operations Manager
Carlos Asensio, Logistics Manager
Inside ZKTeco Europe Logistics
Thank you both for joining us today. We will begin with Carlos Asensio. Can you elaborate on the core objectives of the ZKTeco Europe logistics department?
The main mission of the ZKTeco Europe logistics department is to manage the efficient flow and storage of our products from the moment they arrive at our warehouse until they are prepared for customer orders. This includes ensuring timely delivery, maintaining high service quality through consistent communication with our headquarters and internal departments, and managing inventory effectively.
What are the key factors that contribute to your department's success in achieving both timely deliveries and high service quality?
We have implemented a streamlined process for receiving, handling, and dispatching goods. By using a combination of advanced tracking systems and well-defined procedures, we ensure that products are delivered on time and in excellent condition. We also maintain consistent communication channels with both our headquarters and internal departments, which is crucial for upholding our high service standards.
Can you describe the process of goods receipt and how it is managed?
Upon arrival, goods are unloaded and checked against delivery notes to ensure accuracy. They are then entered into our SAP system and moved to designated storage areas. Our quality control team also inspects the goods to ensure they meet our standards before they are stored.
What strategies do you use to balance stock levels and avoid overstocking or stock-outs?
We use a combination of regular inventory checks and data analysis to monitor stock levels. By forecasting demand and planning accordingly, we can maintain optimal stock levels. We also coordinate closely with the purchasing department to ensure timely replenishment of high-demand products.
What are some of the recent improvements or innovations in your logistics processes?
One significant improvement is the integration of an advanced warehouse management system that enhances our ability to track and manage inventory in real-time. Additionally, we have optimized our order preparation process to reduce handling time and improve accuracy. To ensure even greater reliability, we have expanded our transport network. This allows us to reroute deliveries if there are disruptions with our primary supplier, minimizing delays and keeping orders on track.
ZKTeco Europe's Operations & Purchasing
Now, let us turn to Daniela Muruzabal. How does the Operations department ensure the efficient supply of products to meet customer demands?
At ZKTeco Europe, we achieve efficient product supply through a collaborative approach. Our operations team integrates logistics, purchasing, RMA, and the workshop, fostering close communication and streamlined internal processes. This focus on collaboration ensures a consistent flow of products that meets customer needs.
Sheila Rivas, our Purchase Manager, plays a key role in this process. By meticulously managing purchase orders (POs) based on forecasted demand and current stock levels, she helps prevent stockouts and ensures a smooth flow of products to fulfill customer requests.
Could you describe the purchase order management process and its various phases?
Sure, our purchase order management process is a multi-stage system designed for efficiency and control. Here is a breakdown of the key phases:
- Order generation: This stage can vary depending on the source (internal request, customer order) and destination (within Europe) of the goods. Regardless of the method, clear communication ensures accurate order details.
- PO issuance and management: Once the order details are finalized, we issue a formal purchase order to ZKTeco China, ensuring it aligns with our inventory levels and projected demand. We then meticulously manage the PO throughout its lifecycle, tracking its status and ensuring timely fulfilment.
- Shipment management and tracking: We closely collaborate with ZKTeco China to coordinate the shipment of goods. We utilize robust tracking systems to monitor the shipment's progress and ensure timely arrival.
- Goods receipt and quality control: Upon arrival, we work closely with the logistics team to receive the goods and verify their accuracy against the purchase order and packing slip. Quality control procedures are also conducted to ensure the products meet our standards before being added to inventory.
- Payment processing: Finally, we collaborate with the finance department to ensure timely and accurate payments by our agreed-upon payment terms.
This comprehensive approach ensures smooth flow, minimizes disruptions, and allows us to consistently meet customer demands.
How does your department manage the SAP purchase module to keep it up-to-date?
We regularly update the SAP purchase module by defining new articles, including necessary codes, and maintaining purchase price lists. This ensures that all information related to our products is current and accurate, facilitating smooth purchasing operations.
What are the primary challenges your team faces in the purchasing department?
Managing the purchasing department effectively requires navigating a dynamic landscape. Here are two key challenges we address. On the one hand, balancing cost efficiency and timely delivery and on the other adapting to market fluctuations. While we leverage the benefits of centralized purchasing, we also recognize the need for agility. We work closely with purchase headquarters to ensure competitive pricing for products sourced from ZKTeco China. Additionally, we employ strategies like forecasting techniques and safety stock levels to maintain timely deliveries and avoid stockouts in the European market. This collaborative approach ensures cost-effectiveness without compromising customer service.
Have there been any recent process improvements or technology integrations that have enhanced purchasing efficiency?
Absolutely! We have implemented several initiatives to improve purchasing efficiency. Here are a couple of key examples. We have adopted a more sophisticated demand planning system that allows us to forecast product needs with greater accuracy. This helps us ensure we have the right inventory levels to meet customer demand without unnecessary stockouts or surpluses. We have integrated our systems with those of our key suppliers. This improves communication, automates tasks, and streamlines the order management process, leading to faster order fulfillment and reduced errors.
Additionally, our purchasing team is constantly evaluating new suppliers to identify products that are in high demand within the market. This proactive approach helps us expand our offerings and meet evolving customer needs.
Thank you both for your insights. This has been very informative.
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