While you browse the range in our showroom at the old postal terminal, someone has already done the groundwork. Meet Bjørn – the man who makes sure the right garments are there, at the right price, from the right supplier.
Bjørn, what does your job actually involve?
"It's a bit difficult to explain in one sentence," he laughs. "I put together quotes for businesses, have direct dialogue with our suppliers, and help choose what goes into our range. And occasionally I pop into production as well."
Bjørn is the member of the team you might not always see – but will certainly notice. He is the link between the businesses that need to kit out their employees and the suppliers who deliver the goods. That requires both an overview, patience, and the ability to find solutions that work for all parties.
What does it mean in practice to be a link?
"It means I have to understand what the customer actually needs, and at the same time know what the supplier can deliver. Sometimes it's straightforward. Other times it's a bit more of a puzzle," he says. "But when all the pieces fall into place and the customer is happy – that's very satisfying."
You are also involved in purchasing for the showroom at the old postal terminal. What is that like?
"It's one of the most enjoyable parts of the job. We are careful about what we select – it has to be quality that genuinely lasts, and a range that meets the needs of the businesses we work with. What hangs in there is not by chance."
He smiles slightly and adds:
"And it's always a little special to see something you chose yourself hanging in the showroom and catching customers' eyes."
What do customers often not think about when they place an order?
"That there are many choices to be made, and that those choices affect both price and delivery time. Material, colour, size and logo – everything is connected. The earlier we are involved in the process, the better the solution we can find. We would rather be involved from the start, not just at the end when everything needs to happen quickly."
And the contact with suppliers – what does that require?
"Relationships and trust, plain and simple. We have worked with many of our suppliers over time, and that means we can make demands and find solutions that are not always listed in a catalogue. That is an advantage for our customers, even if they perhaps don't always see it directly."
What is the best thing about your job?
"That no two days are quite the same. And that I actually see the result of the work – whether it's a quote that lands, a garment that hits the mark, or a range that works. It's concrete, and I like that."
Curious about what the Jobb og Fritid Bedriftsenter can do for your business? Come and visit our showroom at the old postal terminal, or get in touch and Bjørn and the rest of the team will help you find the best solution.
