Job titles are usually reflective of what a person does, like lawyer, doctor or firefighter…But within an organization, there are some roles that don’t quite capture what that person actually does. Take as example, an Expeditor in the remodeling industry. You walk into a friend’s house and see her recently finished basement. It’s a beautiful room, perfectly put together. But not with a magic wand! Someone ordered the materials that became walls, new floors and ceilings with canned lighting! Today we would like to shine a light on our wonderful Expeditor at Mosby Building Arts who starts the ball rolling.
Meet James Roney, expeditor, who is a part of Mosby’s Production team. In simple terms, the expeditor position exists for companies using large amounts of materials and supplies. The expeditor role often overlaps with purchasing.
How long have you been the Expeditor?
JR: I’ve been in the construction industry for 30+ years. My first project was helping build a new house when I was 16 years old. I’ve been with Mosby for a total of 13 years, 10 of those as Project Manager. For the last three years, I’ve been in the Project Expeditor role. Because this was a newly created position, I had the unique opportunity to work with management to customize the role to utilize my skills to best serve the company.
What is your role in the design build process?
JR: In general, I help ensure materials and equipment are available and in working order, coordinate deliveries and when necessary, schedule subcontractors. I spend considerable time interacting with and assisting Designers with project development and Project Managers with buyouts. Having previously owned my own business prior to working at Mosby, I learned to wear many hats which makes me successful in my current role.
What is the importance of expediting as it relates to the rest of the project?
JR: Well, most of my efforts are really needed at the conception of the project. If I do my job properly, then it’s like the perfect domino effect. All the pieces fall into place as the project transitions from one department to the next. In addition, if the job encounters change orders or unknown variables that require additional research, I’ll get involved to help solve those issues.
What skills are required to best perform as Expeditor?
JR: I believe that the most crucial skill is being detail oriented. In this industry, you don’t want to miss crossing a T or dotting an I and end up with a $50,000 mistake! In this role, it’s also crucial to offer great customer service. And, of course, the ability to multi-task is extremely important in order to juggle many project details. I’m continually finding answers so I can best try to predict worst-case scenarios and ensure those are addressed.
What is your favorite thing about being an Expeditor?
JR: I get involved in so many facets of projects, on so many levels. I get great satisfaction when a job is completed on time and on budget, knowing that my role in the process helped achieve a successful outcome, resulting in happy clients.
What is most challenging about your job?
JR: Basically, inherent with the position is the challenge of directing communication between all parties involved. Coordinating the exchange between the Home Consultants, Designers and Project Managers is like conducting a perfect sounding orchestra.
We hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know one of our valuable team members. You’re in good hands with James behind the scenes, as well as our entire Mosby team!