Expense Reduction Analysts Franchise

Looking forward to another 10 years of delighting clients.

12th June 2012

One of ERA’s most widely experienced and respected consultants, Steve Whitlam joined over 10 years ago after a successful career in bank management. Steve leads ERA’s Banking Team in projects gaining procurement solutions and significant savings for clients of all sizes and industries.

A previous winner of the ‘Associate of the Year’ award, Steve has successfully used his skills to delight his clients during his career with ERA.

Based in Nottinghamshire, Steve has been married for almost 30 years and has 2 adult children. In his spare time he enjoys golfing, photography and travel – in the last 2 years he has enjoyed trips to the West Coast of America, New York, Germany, Norway and the West Indies.

• Why did you decide to buy a franchise?

I was feeling frustrated with the direction of my career and was looking for a new challenge. I gave it some thought and identified that I required a role that would enable me to interact with businesses, in particular working with key decision makers. I enjoy negotiating and achieving savings so the concept of ERA seemed like the ideal solution for me.

• Why did you choose to join Expense Reduction Analysts?

I was aware that a franchise had a much better chance of survival than starting a business on my own. I was looking for a white collar opportunity where I could use the skills from my previous roles to the benefit of other organisations. This is what led me to my ERA business.

• How did you raise the finance?

The situation with my employer at the time was static and I wasn’t challenged in my position. I was presented with the opportunity to take voluntary redundancy which I used to fund my new business venture.

• What challenges did you face in your early days?

When you run your own business, every decision lies with you and you have to hold yourself accountable for the success of your business. It requires a lot hard work, determination and self-motivation but if you can accomplish this, the results are worth it.

• What do you enjoy the most about being an Expense Reduction Analyst consultant?

I really enjoy the negotiation aspect of my work, not simply negotiating the lowest price for my clients as quick-win savings can result in problems. I relish achieving the best deal for all the parties involved and aim for a win-win-win outcome where my client, the supplier and my business all benefit from the arrangement.

The financial aspect of this job is also extremely rewarding. It has allowed me to enjoy a 6 figure salary consistently, excluding the first couple of years.

• How has being your own boss changed your life?

The freedom to arrange my own work schedule is great; I can work on a Sunday if I wish to take a couple of days off mid-week. I have just got back from a 3 week holiday that I wouldn’t have been able to take if I were working in the corporate world.

For me, the most significant change is that I am no longer required to satisfy managers by doing things that I don’t see the value in doing. Now, I only spend time on the work that I truly believe in which is much more satisfying.

• What are the highlights of your career since joining Expense Reduction Analysts?

A real pivotal accomplishment in my career was when we formed the ERA Banking Team around 8 years ago. I and some other consultants from a Banking and Finance background decided it would be advantageous to pool our knowledge, expertise and skills. This has resulted in achieving exceptional savings for many clients.

A personal highlight of mine is winning the ‘Associate of the Year’ award in 2003 which I was delighted with. That year, I had contributed much of my time and effort to the development of other associates’ businesses, accompanying them on meetings and such. This was the basis on which I won the award and I was so pleased.

• Which biggest clients / most successful projects stand out over the years since joining?

One that particularly stands out is a well-known fast food chain where I uncovered savings of around 80%. I have also worked with an iconic denim retailer and an established video and DVD rental company.

• Why have you decided to renew after 10 years?

It just seems like the natural thing to do; I’m not quite ready to hang up my boots yet! When I joined ERA back in 2001, I always saw it as a 20 year venture and am I doing well so it just makes sense to continue the success of my business.

• What are your future plans for your business?

To develop the Banking Team and continue delivering great service to our clients by adding value, identifying savings and assisting them in achieving effective procurement.

• What strengths do Expense Reduction Analysts have that differentiates them from other cost reduction companies?

In my opinion, it is the breadth and depth of our category expertise and the specialist knowledge we have across a number of different areas of business. Another great benefit of our franchise is that it provides the opportunity for our associates to grow and develop their specialism, as each client has different circumstances, our expertise never stops expanding.

•  Would you recommend Expense Reduction Analysts to others looking to purchase a cost reduction franchise?

Yes, for the right person it can be the ideal opportunity. If you have a great work ethic, motivation in abundance and the independence to work for yourself, this franchise can make you incredibly successful.

To find out more information about Expense Reduction Analysts franchise simply complete the form below or click the button

Expense Reduction Analysts Franchise Case Studies

Bruce Murray – Awarded Expense Reduction Analysts Best Newcomer of the Year
20th February 2013
In recognition of his outstandingly successful first year, Bruce Murray was awarded Expense Reduction Analysts Best New Consultant of the...

David Rogers - Expense Reduction Analysts - "I can fit my work around my personal schedule"
15th January 2013
David Rogers joined Expense Reduction Analysts in 2001 after a successful career in Business Systems Management

Introducing Lorraine Gannon who joined Expense Reduction Analysts in February 2011
4th December 2012
Having looked at other cost reduction franchises, Lorraine Gannon chose Expense Reduction Analysts as they were head and shoulders above...

"My own successful procurement business and a six figure salary"
16th October 2012
Keith Copestake is proof of the outstanding earning potential of a successful Expense Reduction Analysts consultancy, consecutively earning...

From property expert to profitable procurement
31st August 2012
Taking the step into self-employment, Jason Adderley joined Expense Reduction Analysts in June 2010 after 15 years working in property;

Brian Holmes is part of the specialist communications team within Expense Reduction Analysts
14th June 2012
Brian Holmes has over 25 years of experience in data communications and telecommunications with a BSc in Electrical and Electronic...

After 10 years, I still very much enjoy what I do.
2nd January 2012
The financial rewards have been beyond my expectations

Derek Hodd “Highest Income Earner” 2011
3rd October 2011
Established consultant of over 11 years, Derek Hodd, won this highly regarded award at the Expense Reduction Analysts National Conference...

Further Information

Franchise Information

BFA Membership Status
Full

UK Years Established
20 years

Current UK Coverage
80%

Franchisee Support Staff
18

Personal Investment Req.
£12,000

Total Startup Cost
£39,900

Home-based business location

Business to business services

Part of a collaborative franchise network

Why Choose Us?

What Our Franchisees Say

Latest Case Study

20th February 2013
Bruce Murray – Awarded Expense Reduction Analysts Best Newcomer of the Year

Latest News

1st May 2013
The Expense Reduction Analysts Academy Rewards

Special Feature

13th December 2012
Expense Reduction Analysts’ Highlights of 2012 - A record breaking year of success