Daniel manages purchases even as the world shuts down

Purchasing manager Daniel Wik has taken control of Prevex’s purchasing department amid the very exceptional circumstances caused by the pandemic.

Tell us a little about yourself. How did you end up at Prevex?

I am Daniel Wik, a 39-year-old guy from Pietarsaari. I have a degree in business administration – my main subject was international business. During my career I have worked in financing, purchasing, and logistics. My career path has also taken me to Stockholm, where I worked in banking for eight years. After moving back to Pietarsaari I worked for five years in a company that specialized in HVAC consulting. In the summer of 2021, however, I decided to submit an open application to Prevex, and in July I started in my new position as a purchasing manager.

What are a purchasing manager’s workdays like?

As the purchasing manager I am responsible for the procurement strategy. I have to think about what, from where, at what price, and how many products will be purchased. I make supply contracts and ensure that there are multiple suppliers per one product to guarantee products’ availability. The purchasing department also cooperates with product development, logistics, and sales teams. In this way our department stays updated on what kind of products are in development, what products we should purchase in the future, and what we want to sell.

What is the best thing about your job?

I like having diverse tasks. Every day at work is different when you are a purchasing manager. I also enjoy cooperating with different departments.

What challenges have you faced and how have you dealt with them?

I started working at Prevex during the corona pandemic that has definitely brought its own challenges to purchasing. At the same time, the importance of purchasing has been even more emphasized since products are not available the same way as before and prices have increased. You must keep track of delivery times and prices even more closely than before. However, thanks to careful planning, previous experience, and good supplier networks we have been able to overcome these challenges. Prevex also has a lot of in-house knowledge, and you always get help when you need it.

What is Prevex like as a workplace?

Amazing. I have had a great time here. As a new employer, I have felt welcome and comfortable. Prevex has a good work community, and I have a lot of nice co-workers. Even though Prevex is constantly growing, we have a strong sense of unity here. This is also a workplace where you can express your opinion without thinking about the hierarchy – you get your voice heard.

How do you see Prevex’s future and your own part in it?

I think Prevex has a bright future. The company is growing, and we have the ability to change with the world. Prevex also has a strong owner who is happy with the way things are done here. I hope that I can be a part of Prevex’s growth story for a long time.