From Pain to Profit: How Data Transforms Manufacturers
Description
In this episode of Made to Grow, Rich Dale speaks with Mark Wood, Managing Director of Alliance Procurement Solutions, about how SME manufacturers can unlock real improvements using the data and systems they already have. Drawing on his 20+ years of experience, including time at Rolls-Royce, Mark shares practical ways to use better procurement, reporting, and decision-making to cut costs, boost profitability, and reduce inefficiencies.
This isn’t about chasing shiny tech or running massive transformation programmes—it’s about spotting low-hanging fruit, improving what you already do, and giving your team the tools to do their jobs better.
About Our Guest
Mark Wood is Managing Director of Alliance Procurement Solutions. With a background in senior procurement roles at Rolls-Royce, Mark now works closely with manufacturing SMEs to improve supply chain performance, streamline business processes, and use data to drive decisions. His approach combines consultancy, coaching, and business intelligence tools to help clients build resilience and grow sustainably.
Key Topics in This Episode
What to look for when assessing your business’ appetite for change
Why process improvement often starts with overlooked data
How poor reporting leads to missed opportunities—and what to do about it
Common procurement inefficiencies in small manufacturers
Real-world savings: case studies of improved margin, time, and sustainability
How to make data work harder for your team—not the other way around
Misconceptions about process improvement (hint: it’s not about cutting jobs)
Next Steps
If this episode struck a chord, explore the FEARLESS Digital Transformation framework from Flowlens. It sets out eight practical steps to help SME manufacturers plan and manage their change journey—from foundations and team engagement to systems integration and long-term improvement.
Further Reading & Resources
🌐 Visit Alliance Procurement Solutions
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