Richard Rafdahl

My Services

COST REDUCTION SPECIALISTS SERVICES Cost Reduction Specialists Inc. is a team of procurement and supply chain consultants who optimize value and accelerate savings for both manufacturers and distributors by focusing on the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and Comprehensive Spend Management. CRS combines leading-edge procurement strategies, best practices and a results driven approach – delivering “real savings” and a distinct competitive advantage for our clients. CRS specializes in identifying those expense areas and business processes where the greatest savings opportunities exist, invests in a thorough due diligence and then negotiates maximum value from the suppliers of choice – responsibly. By identifying and addressing all components that contribute to the Total Cost of Ownership (i.e. quality, supplier performance and services, ease of doing business, inventory investment, freight expense, payment terms, minimums, incentives, special requirements, pricing etc. ), CRS is able to provide substantive value improvement while advancing our client’s financial and profit objectives. The following are the major services we provide: IN-DEPTH SPEND ANALYSIS – CRS invests the time and resources to thoroughly understand all elements of the products or services currently purchased in order to determine what improvement opportunities exist or unnecessary costs may be eliminated. This process includes a review of the current quality & performance standards, specifications, supplier performance requirements such on-time delivery expectations, key stakeholder interviews, order processes and cycles, internal level of satisfaction, customer service, representation, problem solving effectiveness, ease of doing business, payment terms, rebates preferences and new or alternative options STRATEGIC SOURCING – CRS has in-depth knowledge of many different industries, markets and suppliers. When evaluating the supplier community for “best in class” suppliers, we consider performance, quality, services, locations, reputation and pricing. It is not uncommon to find that a current supplier, who at one time was ideal for your business, may not be the best fit now or in the future. Changes within your business and evolving customer demands may require that other suppliers be considered. On the other hand, you current supplier may be the best option but simply has not been competitively challenged regarding their services, performance and pricing. PROCESS IMPROVEMENTS – As CRS review our client’s current spend by category and compiles all the required data, we will also review current procedures and program steps. As requested, we will provide process recommendations on where to streamline, consolidate and improve efficiencies within the various purchasing and supply channel areas. INVENTORY MANAGEMENT – CRS has significant inventory control experience. We can provide strategic suggestions and effective, intelligent processes that could significantly reduce your inventory investment without compromising service and performance to your clients. RFI, RFQ, and RFP DEVELOPMENT – CRS has the expertise to create comprehensive RFIs, RFXs, RFQs and RFP which include all descriptions, specifications, volumes along with service, quality and performance requirements. In addition, we include all information and nuances that a supplier should be made aware of in order to provide an accurate quote such as client terms and conditions, expectations and rules of engagement. 1. Issuance of Request - Once the above has been completed, CRS will issue the formal Request to select suppliers of choice, field any questions and provide any clarification to participants – as needed. CRS will schedule meetings and plant visits if warranted, provide samples as needed and request that the supplier sign off on the terms and conditions prior to providing a proposal. PROFESSIONAL AND FAIR NEGOTIATIONS - In addition, we have years of professional negotiating experience and invest the critical time and resources necessary for a thorough due diligence so that we understand all elements of the programs we work on. In addition to price, we will negotiate on behalf of our clients the service levels required, performance requirements, processes, quality standards, customer service support, in-bound shipment requirements, warranties, timing, performance penalties (if required), paperwork detail (i.e. invoice, packing slip, customer service documents), payment terms, rebates, price change methodology, and final pricing. CREATION OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES – If our client requires, CRS can create, update or rewrite policies and procedures for any purchasing area and process. In addition, we can assist with educating the key staff and stakeholder of any procedural changes, the benefit of the change and all associated training. CONTRACTS AND SERVICE AGREEMENT DEVELOPMENT – CRS has compiled many different contract and service templates that could be modified to address most programs. In addition, we have the skills to write a completely new agreement to address all terms, standards, services, points of interest, performance and pricing requirements for a new project.

Advisory type

Consulting

Service line

Strategy, Other Services

Expertise

Strategic Procurement and Cost Reduction Services Profit Improvement Strategic Sourcing Spend Assessment Indirect Expense Reduction Procurement and Supply Chain Transformation

Industry Specialization

Consumer Products, M&A, Manufacturing, Private Equity, Services Industries

Previous Employers

Accenture, Cost Reduction Specialists Inc, Schwarz Supply Source, Berlin Packaging, Firestone and Lawson.

College / University Degrees

Bachelor

Bachelor of Business WIU

Specialized training, Certifications

CPM - Certified Purchasing Management Lifetime Status

Other credentials

Assisted various medium and large organizations responsibly reduce their indirect spend - maximizing savings and profit. CPM - Certified Purchasing Manager Lifetime Status Former Accenture Strategic Manager that helped transform the strategic sourcing and procurement functions of many businesses into successful profit centric organizations.

Languages

English