In this 2nd episode focusing on the SME section of supply chains, James chats with Mal Hiley, the Managing Director of Baker & Provan, a successful Western Sydney engineering and services company with an international supply line.

Baker & Provan, a family owned business have specialised in the manufacture and supply of quality engineering products for over 75 years. It is now a significant and long-term supplier to the Defence Industry. Still based in St Marys in a 6,500sq metre workshop and employing over 80 fulltime staff, the company is a well-respected, successful modern engineering company suppling large buyers across the nation.

James and Mal discuss the challenges of managing SMEs and the keys to managing demanding buyers, and in sustaining international suppliers. Mal opens up on the difficulties and the processes needed to sustain success in demanding industries, including:

• The structure and history of the business.

• The challenges of sovereign capability and the role Bake & Provan is playing in increasing onshore capability.

• The difference between manufacturing and sustainment as a Defence supplier.

• Managing long term contracts with Defence and the Defence Industry.

• Developing relationships with international OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), to provide local sustainment support.

• Importance of face-to-face relationships with suppliers, buyers and staff.

• And much more.

Mal is in the unique position of managing a multi-pronged, long supply line, fine tolerance engineering business that has been successful for generations before him. His insights and experiences are well worth hearing.