Building a supply chain network to deliver PPE to the NHS front line

The operation commenced with “normal” receipts, but soon, as PPE was being sourced from all corners of the globe, we were receiving new products daily, all of which required approval and authorisation before we were prepared to release them into the front line. @Hatmill and our @MOD colleagues led the way in developing New Product and Quality Assurance functions, liaising closely with the appropriate bodies and Clipper staff in the operation.Some products were in short supply at times, and required rapid turnaround and dispatch, not simple when many receipts were from new suppliers. Clipper’s #transportoperation worked closely with the NHS’s National Supply Disruption Response team to arrange and effect emergency deliveries through the day and overnight, 7 days a week, until the inventory situation improved.As stock continued to build, additional facilities were brought online to ensure whatever was needed was available. We now have several sites holding PPE throughout the country, prepared for any eventuality.Having a small, operationally experienced Hatmill team managing the initial relationships with the NHS, DHSC and PHE enabled Clipper to focus on the rapid start up required to maintain supply to the front line. From a standing start, the Hatmill team not only developed the New Product and QA processes with the MOD, but also refined the Demand Management system and enhanced the ever-changing reporting suites while supporting the day to day operation. All this while working at least 12 hour days, 6 or 7 times a week.