Up until January you were Purchase Manager only for Lexus. Does this new job suits you?
It is of course another division now that I purchase all brands. In the past I was specialized in Lexus and I bought and sold used cars as well as new ones. Doing this since 2003 means that Lexus is in my DNA. It’s really a challenge to gain more knowledge about the other brands.
How does the purchase process work?
After consultation with the Brand Managers I decide what car to look for. Then I start the search which will begin often on the internet, the same way as people do at home. But the difference is that I have special car relating software at my disposal so that I can search throughout Europe. I then need to make the phonecall, send e-mails and inspect the cars before I can make a deal.
During this process a lot of cars do not meet our standards. It is really important to find cars in excellent condition.
How do you find the best cars?
That is a matter of experience and to always be on the lookout for good cars. During the years I worked with Lexus I built a wide network so that people also approach me. In the end it is all about a good relationship with the seller. You have to trust one another, everything stands of falls with that. Building a network also takes time. I have a lot of contacts in the Benelux, France as well as Germany. Also recently I made a contact in Italy. I went there to get acquainted and while being there we bought some very nice cars. Quality comes first.
Has there been a time that the quality was disappoiting?
Once I experienced that he car was not according to the description I had received that was really disappoiting. Immediately I put some trade number plates on the car and drove it back myself to the seller. Once but never again.
You work on a daily basis with the most beautiful sportscars. Is Lexus still your favorite?
Of course it is a nice bonus that in this business once in a while you can drive these special cars. For instance I participated in the Try Out Rally. But recently I bought my second Lexus converible and I really love to drive it when the sun is shining.
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About Paul
Purchase Manager / In service since 2012 / Age: 49 / Children: 1 daughter / What is keeping him busy outside work: Paul likes to take the Lexus convertible out when the sun is shining.