On this episode of Talent Talks, Rob Douglas joins Martin Smith to share lessons from a remarkable 30-year career spanning Ford, Capgemini, Barclays, Currys, National Grid, and Direct Line Group. From his first role in “purchasing” to his evolution as Chief Procurement Officer, Rob reveals what it takes to build influence, lead through change and stay curious in a fast-evolving profession.

He discusses leadership lessons learned from the Army, the art of supplier relationships, the challenges of attracting new procurement talent and how AI will shape the future of commercial decision-making.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea.

Tune in for a masterclass in leadership, strategy and staying adaptable in an ever-changing procurement landscape.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a colleague and leave us a quick review. It really helps the show grow!

Some of the key moments during this podcast include:

How Rob started his career in procurement after the Army

Lessons learned from Ford’s legendary graduate program

Building lasting supplier relationships and trust

Adapting across industries: retail, energy and financial services

What defines “the buyer’s instinct” and how to spot it

How procurement has evolved over three decades

The growing role of risk management and cyber resilience

Why graduate programs are disappearing, and why that’s a problem

Rob’s advice for aspiring CPOs

How AI and automation could enhance, not replace, procurement

Soundbites

“You can be fact-driven without being horrible.”

“The buyer’s instinct. You either have it or you don’t.”

“Procurement isn’t just about savings anymore. It’s about resilience and relationships.”

“As a leader, it’s not about winning every argument. It’s about helping your team make great decisions.”

“Treat suppliers well. It’s a small industry, you’ll meet them again.”

“We’ve lost too many graduate programs, and the profession will feel that gap.”

“Curiosity has taken me further than ambition ever did.”

“AI will enhance procurement. It won’t replace human instinct.”

“Preparation is everything. You can’t fake being ready.”

“If you want to be a great CPO, keep lifting the bonnet and stay curious.”

Chapters

00:00 – Intro

01:00 – Early Career and Army lessons

03:00 – Learning the Foundations at Ford

05:20 – Building Strong Supplier Relationships

08:10 – Adapting Across Industries

11:50 – How Procurement has Evolved

13:10 – Buyer’s Instinct

18:00 – Balancing Risk and Commerciality

20:40 – Leadership Lessons and Developing Teams

24:30 – The Future of Procurement Talent

30:10 – Advice for Aspiring CPOs

37:00 – Quickfire Questions

Summary

What happens when you bring sport, leadership, and purpose into procurement?

In this episode of Talent Talks, host Martin Smith sits down with Stuart Farrell, Group Procurement Director across the FFTL portfolio (including All Points, Cuckoo Broadband and FFTL itself). 

With more than 25 years of global procurement experience at companies like Vodafone, Fujitsu and HPE, Stuart shares his journey from “falling into procurement” to leading transformation across multiple industries.

They explore the power of authentic relationships, why remembering people’s names and passions builds better business outcomes and how lessons from sport, especially cricket, shape high-performing teams. 

Stuart also opens up about why safety must always come before savings, how procurement’s role is evolving in an AI-driven world and the traits he looks for when hiring top talent.

Whether you’re a procurement professional, people leader or simply curious about the human side of business, this episode offers candid stories, practical wisdom and inspiration in equal measure.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea.

If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who loves good leadership stories.

Some of the key moments during this podcast include:

How a charity cricket match strengthened supplier relationships.

Stuart’s unconventional entry into procurement and the deal that changed his career.

Why relationships, not transactions, drive business success.

Lessons learned from legendary leaders at Vodafone.

The importance of empathy, curiosity and memory in leadership.

How elite sport data inspired Stuart’s recruitment strategy.

Why “Safety First” is the #1 KPI in his procurement organisation.

The evolving role of procurement in cybersecurity and ESG.

How AI can empower, not replace, procurement professionals.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Stuart Farrell

02:51 - Sports & Business Relationships

05:51 - Stuart's Entry into Procurement

11:51- Building Relationships in Procurement

18:44 - Authenticity in Business

25:49 - Defining Talent and Hiring Strategies

33:42 - The Evolution of Procurement

38:48 - Creating a Mandate for Procurement

45:48 - The Future of AI in Procurement

This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea.

On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin talks to Jonathan Wharfe, Director of Procurement and Commercial Operations at Transport for London.

Jonathan shares insights from his extensive career in procurement. He emphasises the importance of building communities, listening to stakeholders and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration. 

Jonathan discusses the evolution of procurement practices, the impact of AI and the need to address geopolitical challenges. 

He also highlights the significance of talent management and the necessity of changing the narrative around procurement to attract new talent.

Takeaways

·       Listening is crucial for building trust in teams.

·      Culture should be developed collaboratively with teams.

·      Dyslexia can be a unique advantage in problem-solving.

·      AI will enhance procurement processes and decision-making.

·       Procurement must adapt to geopolitical challenges.

·       The narrative around procurement needs to be improved.

·      Mentorship plays a vital role in career development.


Chapters

00:00 Building Communities in Procurement

02:53 The Importance of Listening

06:12 Cultural Transformation

08:56 Career Transitions and Mentorship

12:12 The Evolution of Procurement Practices

14:56 AI

17:48 Geopolitical Challenges in Procurement

21:08 Talent in Procurement

24:01 Changing the Narrative

26:48 Advice for Aspiring CPOs

How did the UK healthcare profession tackle unprecedented shortages and demands during a global pandemic? In this episode of Talent Talks, Martin Smith talks to Andrew Jones, Owner & Director or Expert Procurement and current Director of Procurement at Aspen Healthcare. Andrew discusses sourcing PPE during a global shortage, the future role of adaptability in choosing products, collaborating across professions and key considerations for building a procurement team. This episode of Talent Talks covers: - Bringing people back into health care - PPE supply- Impacts of panic buying - Long-term impacts on the procurement industry - Adaptability in purchasing - Collaborating across professions - Building procurement teams. In this series of short bonus Talent Talks episodes, Martin Smith interviews leading procurement professionals from a range of brands about their views and experiences on the effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic. Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/

Founder of the world’s first online business network built exclusively for procurement and supply chain professionals, Tania Seary is recognised as one of the influential members of the industry. In this episode of Talent Talks, Tania provides insights into how different countries have dealt with resource issues, public perception of procurement and how to take advantage of its time in the spotlight and skills in demand in the aftermath of the pandemic. In this series of short bonus Talent Talks episodes, Martin Smith interviews leading procurement professionals from a range of brands about their views and experiences on the effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic. This episode of Talent Talks covers: - How different countries have dealt with resource issues - Developing local sourcing strategies - Public image and perception of procurement - Sustainable sourcing - Procurement skill sets - Developing a category strategy. Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/ This episode of Talent Talks was sponsored by Bridge Procurement. Bridge Procurement helps companies of all sizes to reduce their operating expenditure whilst improving contract governance. They always provide a return on investment and a refreshing approach to outsourced procurement. For more information please visit bridgeprocurement.com  

How can procurement professionals find opportunities during lockdown to step-up, showcase value and get to the top table where perhaps they were struggling before? In this episode of Talent Talks, Martin Smith welcomes Leigh Kopec, Head of Procurement and Contract Management at The Royal British Legion.

He provides insights into the tactics and strategies he has put into place to adapt to needs in a pandemic, including redeploying team members to other categories, collaborating with other charities to source PPE for their care homes and identifying and managing risk.

Leigh discusses leaving a “procurement legacy” after the lockdown, and using it as a time to evaluate contracts and suppliers, complete personal development training, and open up the pool of talent available to you as an organisation. 

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Leading the way in digital procurement technology in the charity sector
• Due diligence around PPE sourcing in the UK
• Adapting to virtual fundraising and finding new sources
• Reacting to demands within care homes
• Opportunities for procurement experts to step-up during a crisis

In this series of short bonus Talent Talks episodes, Martin Smith interviews leading procurement professionals from a range of brands about their views and experiences on the effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/

What skills will be in demand out of lockdown? Which industries will thrive and fall in procurement? How will outsourcing abroad change? How do I stay ahead of the game? In this series of short bonus Talent Talks episodes, Martin Smith interviews leading procurement professionals from a range of brands about their views and experiences on the effects of the current COVID-19 pandemic.This week Martin welcomes Peter Smith, former CIPs President, with 30 years experience in procurement, author of “A Procurement Compendium" and Managing Director of Procurement Excellence. This episode of Talent Talks covers: - The effect of COVID-19 on different industries - Skills that will be in demand out of lockdown - Supply-chain risk management - De-Globalisation and outsourcing from abroad - Advice for those looking for work. Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/

Specialist supply-chain and procurement recruiter, Martin Smith from Talent Drive provides helpful insights to job hunters, in this unique episode of Talent Talks. He provides a deep-dive into how to stand out against the competition by being authentic, curating relevant content and showcasing the value you can add to employers. This episode of Talent Talks covers: - How to approach businesses you want to work for - Taking advantage of marginal gains through recruiters - CV writing tips - Building and nurturing your network - Identifying industries with demand in supply-chain professionals -Tips on negotiating your salary - Curating relevant and authentic content. Initially recorded as an online webinar as part of the #projectprocurement series, this podcast episode includes a short informative speech, followed by a Q&A led by a series of procurement professionals. Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/ Get in touch: martin@talentdrive.co.uk

Are you looking for work in the procurement or supply-chain industry? In the midst of the coronavirus crisis the future is uncertain and job markets unstable. Martin Smith, founder of Talent Drive created this latest episode of the Talent Talks podcast to provide support and guidance to those wanting to stay ahead of the employment market.

He welcomes Alice Fewings, LinkedIn Trainer and Social Media Strategist to provide advice and guidance on building an online profile to improve your personal brand to appeal to recruiters and potential employers. Alice runs through the importance and value of Linked In, how to attract and engage your target audience, how to pull people through to your personal profile and how to get discovered on the platform. 

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Why LinkedIn is a really valuable tool for us to use right now
• How to create a professional profile image and banner image
• Four different ways to create an engaging headline
• Ways to ensure you’re contactable for employers or recruiters
• Keeping your profile up to date and descriptive of your skills

This is the first online webinar recording from the #projectprocurement programme which has been converted into a podcast. #projectprocurement has been created by procurement professionals, Martin Smith, Richard Struthers and Ricky Wallace, to provide support for those looking to get back into work due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Join us at our next webinar by registering on our eventbrite page; https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/talent-drive-30144105948

Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/

Martin Smith, host of Talent Talks interviews two of the UK’s leading procurement experts whose experience spans across the IT and Technology sectors, leading procurement divisions for brands such as Babcock International, British Airways, IBM, Accenture, Nokia, Virgin Atlantic and KPMG. In this episode, Phil Clark and Matt Man discuss the variety of skills now required in an ever-changing industry to work in IT or Technology procurement, the rise of commercial danger zones, the need to raise awareness of the procurement profession to schools and universities and the impact of emerging technologies including 5G, IoT and AI. This episode of Talent Talks covers: The changing environment of the technology industry, The skill set required within technology procurement, Commercial danger zones, The implications of changes to SAAS and cloud based services, Working with suppliers and colleagues to understand data and privacy regulations, Developing a career within IT & tech procurement, The impact of 5G, IoT & AI, Big Data & Blockchain. Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/category/talent-talks-podcast/

Martin Smith, host of Talent Talks interviews two of the UK’s leading Procurement Experts whose experience spans across the aviation, retail and banking sectors, leading procurement divisions for brands such as British Airways, M&S, John Lewis, JP Morgan, RBS and The Body Shop. 

In this episode, Amanda Earnshaw-Darg and Roger Davies discuss the key topics they feel need addressing in the procurement world, to help the industry be more aware and agile in 2020 including automation, digitalisation and category management, as well as a number of tips for those looking to progress their career in procurement. 

This episode of Talent Talks covers: Automation & digitalisation. How the future role of procurement is developing. The importance of networking. Advice on career and skills development in procurement. Differing views on category management. The impact of Brexit. Benefits of mentoring and role models. “Cost vs Value Add” and the importance of understanding the overall business strategy

Links and references at: https://talentdrive.co.uk/talent-talks-podcast/challenges-facing-the-procurement-industry-in-2020/

Jason Gault – TeamJobs (Left)Martin Smith – Talent Drive (Middle)Barry Kick – Evolve Members (Right)

The post Talent Talks Podcast | Episode 3 – How to be a be a Good Leader. appeared first on Talent Drive.

Mark Lewis (Left)Martin Smith – Talent Drive (Middle)Richard Symms – Retearn Group (Right)

The post Talent Talks Podcast | Episode 2 -Addressing the Talent Shortage in Procurement appeared first on Talent Drive.

On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin speaks with Suzanna Hinnell, Operations and Marketing Director at 4C Associates, about B Corp and its impact on sustainable business practices. 

They discuss the certification process, the importance of ethical business, and how B Corp helps attract talent and engage clients.

Suzanna shares her personal passion for sustainability and how businesses can implement sustainable practices to help create a better future.

The Key Areas of Conversation in this Podcast Episode with Suzanna Hinnell were;

+ B Corp certification focuses on sustainable and responsible business practices.

+ 4C Associates aims to be a force for good in the consultancy space.

+ The certification process requires significant documentation and policy implementation.

+ Sustainable travel practices are essential for reducing carbon footprints in consultancy.

+ Engaging employees in sustainability initiatives enhances team cohesion.

+ B Corp certification helps attract talent who are passionate about sustainability.

+ B Corp certification provides a framework for ethical decision-making.

+ The future of B Corp may depend on evolving legislation and societal expectations.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to B Corp
02:49 - The Importance of B Corp
06:05 - B Corp Certification Process
08:50 - Sustainable Travel Practices
12:10 - Sustainability and Ethics
15:02 - Attracting Talent with B Corp
17:52 - Competition in Consultancy
21:08 - Client Engagement in Consultancy
24:04 - Challenges and Opportunities of B Corp Certification
26:56 - Future of B Corp

Andy Lambert – Property Partners Recruitment (Left)Mark Badley – Ronin (Middle)Martin Smith – Talent Drive (Right)

The post Talent Talks Podcast | Episode 1 – The Evolving World of Recruitment appeared first on Talent Drive.

In this special episode of the Talent Talks podcast, we have a new host, Warren Munson, founder of Evolve and The Evolve to Succeed Podcast interview our normal host Martin Smith, about his journey as an entrepreneur and running a recruitment group of businesses. 

Martin shares his early experiences in recruitment, the challenges he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the growth of his company, Talent Drive. He discusses his aspirations to be a market disruptor and his passion for the procurement community. 

Martin also talks about the expansion of Talent Drive into the accountancy and finance sector with the launch of Talent Finance. He reflects on the growth and success of Talent Drive over the past four years. He emphasises the importance of focusing on the quality of people and building a trusted and valued team. 

Martin discusses the future of the recruitment industry, highlighting the need for adaptability to technology and the rise of ESG and sustainability. He also shares insights on fostering a positive culture and transparent communication within a remote business. He envisions the future of Talent Drive as a growing international presence with a focus on diversification and a one-stop-shop service offering.

Here are the key takeaways from this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast:

• Starting a recruitment business can be challenging, but with perseverance and a competitive spirit, it is possible to succeed.
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, Talent Drive faced significant challenges, but by pivoting their approach and doubling down on marketing, they were able to overcome the obstacles.
• Talent Drive aims to be a market disruptor in the recruitment sector by focusing on building relationships, providing thought leadership, and championing the procurement community.
• The expansion of Talent Drive into the accountancy and finance sector with Talent Finance allows the company to diversify its revenue stream and better serve clients in the procurement community. 
• Focus on the quality of people and building a trusted and valued team.
• Foster a positive culture through trust, transparency, and open communication.

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey of an Entrepreneur

10:02 - The Itch to Start Something Myself

19:15 - Scary, Exciting, and Fun: Early Days of Talent Drive

23:24 - Being a Market Disruptor: Building Relationships and Providing Thought Leadership

25:49 - Expanding into New Horizons: Talent Drive's Venture into Accountancy and Finance

26:18 - Building a Trusted and Valued Team

27:47 - Opportunities and Potential in Finance

29:41 - Shifting Focus from Numbers to Quality of People

30:05 - Creating a Great Business that Serves Customers

33:26 - Balancing Work and Personal Life

35:24 - Being Present and Grounded

37:17 - Thriving in the Recruitment Industry

41:37 - Adapting to Technology in Procurement

42:59 - Emotional Intelligence in Recruitment

43:56 - Fostering a Positive Culture in a Remote Business

48:42 - The Future of Talent Drive: International Expansion and Diversification

50:58 - Defining Success: Working with People Who Want to Work with You

In this episode Martin Smith interviews Emir Allen, the Managing Director of Talent Finance. 

They discuss Emir's background in the accountancy and finance world, the challenges and opportunities in the profession and the current landscape of the market. 

They also touch on the importance of embracing technology and focusing on value-add, as well as the role of ESG in business. 

Emir provides advice for hiring managers and shares the plans for Talent Finance in 2024.

Takeaways

●      The accountancy and finance profession offers both challenges and opportunities in the current market.

●      Embracing technology, such as automation and AI, can improve efficiency and effectiveness in the industry.

●      ESG should be a vital part of businesses, attracting investors and employees.

●      Hiring managers should prioritize the hiring process, assess gaps in their teams and prioritise attitude over technical ability.

●      Talent Finance plans to partner with clients in the finance landscape to support their needs and add value.

In this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, our host Martin Smith speaks to Shifa Nasir, a procurement recruitment consultant at Talent Drive. 

Shifa discusses the power of networking and the current trends in the real estate and property market. 

Shifa shares her insights into the procurement industry and offers advice for candidates looking for new roles. 

She also discusses the importance of branding and marketing oneself in the procurement field.

Takeaways

• Networking is a powerful tool for building connections and staying up to date with industry trends.
• Candidates should focus on creating a strong CV and building their presence on platforms like LinkedIn to stand out from the crowd.
• Procurement professionals should consider hosting events and participating in podcasts to amplify their voice and share their knowledge.
• The real estate and property market is seeing opportunities for technology integration, supply diversity and localization of suppliers.
• Hiring managers should have a clear idea of the role they are hiring for and involve relevant team members in the interview process.

To learn more about Talent Drive, visit their website on www.talentdrive.co.uk

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews James Ball, Associate Director at Infosys Portland.

James discusses the differences between working in industry and working in consultancy in the procurement field. 

James shares his insights based on his 25 years of experience in procurement, with 15 years in industry and the last 10 years in consultancy. 

He discusses the differences in thought processes, responsibilities and timeframes between the two roles, and explores the concept of adaptive procurement transformation and the evolving role of procurement in organisations.

This episode of Talent Talks covers…

●      Working in industry and working in consultancy in procurement have significant differences in thought processes, responsibilities and timeframes.

●      In industry, procurement professionals focus on long-term strategies, team well-being, stakeholder engagement, policies, processes and category plans. In consultancy, they focus on project-based work, specific work streams, and achieving outcomes for clients.

●      Procurement is evolving to become its own profit centre, with a focus on adding value to the business and digitalisation.

●      The skills required for modern-day procurement professionals include adaptability, business partnering, technology proficiency and a learning mindset.

●      Consultancy in procurement has experienced double-digit growth and continues to be in demand, with organisations using consultancies for transformation projects and as a flexible resource.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of James Ball

01:25 The Differences Between Working in Industry and Consultancy in Procurement

11:46 Adaptive Procurement Transformation: Making Procurement Relevant

16:36 The Evolving Role of Procurement in Organisations

32:01 The Growth and Demand for Consultancy in Procurement

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Gavin Boswell, the Director of Procurement at Serco. 

They discuss Gavin’s 10-year career at Serco and the evolution of procurement over the past 30 years and the changing role of procurement professionals. 

They also explore the value proposition of procurement and the different methods used to deliver cost reduction and value optimisation. 

Gavin discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with leading transformation efforts in different organisations and emphasises the importance of creating alignment and appreciating the criticality of leadership in driving successful transformations. 

Gavin also discusses AI and its potential impact on procurement regarding processing activities, such as purchase order and invoice processing, as well as more strategic activities like supplier relationship management, innovation, sustainability and risk management.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Different methods and approaches are used to deliver cost reduction and value optimisation in procurement. 
• Innovation and building relationships with suppliers are key to enhancing competitiveness.
• Procurement should align with the strategic priorities of the business.
• Curiosity leads to a data-driven approach and enables strategic and business-focused procurement.
• Being proud of the profession and the journey of development in procurement is rewarding and fulfilling. 
• AI could play a significant role in procurement, freeing up talent for more impactful activities.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background

02:01

The Value Proposition of Procurement

04:20

Prioritisation and Focus in Different Business Units

06:23

Transformation and Development

08:23

Creating an Environment for Collaboration in Procurement

11:23

The Importance of Alignment

13:35

Challenges of Achieving Alignment in a Complex Business

15:50

Developing a Business Mindset

20:38

The Rewarding Journey of Development in Procurement

21:53

Continuous Learning and Evolution in Procurement

23:51

The Future of Procurement in the Digital Age

24:12

The Role of AI in Procurement

25:15

The Role of Automation in Procurement

25:58

Unlocking Talent through Automation

26:18

Using Automation for Processing and Strategic Activities

26:39

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Alex Jennings, an experienced procurement and commercial professional who has worked for companies such as GE and Toyota.

They discuss Alex's career journey, his experience in managing teams, and the changes in the procurement profession. 

They also delve into Alex's entrepreneurial journey and the launch of his procurement platform, the Alchemie Network. The platform aims to connect procurement, supply chain, and sustainability professionals and provide them with tools for personal and professional development. 

Alex emphasises the importance of building strong teams, understanding individual strengths and weaknesses, and creating a culture of trust and diversity.

This episode of Talent Talks covers: 

●      Alex Jennings 40 years worth of experience within procurement and commercial roles.

●      The importance of building strong teams that complement each other's strengths and weaknesses.

●    That diversity, both in terms of demographics and thought, is crucial for a healthy and successful team.

●      The need for a culture of trust and an environment where team members feel comfortable challenging each other.

●      The evolution of procurement from a fulfilment-focused function to a strategic role that requires managing supply chain risks and disruptions.

●      Alex introduces the Alchemie Network, a procurement platform that aims to connect professionals and provide tools for personal and professional development.

In this episode, Martin Smith speaks to Tom Hajek, an independent consultant and head of strategic procurement at Checkatrade. They discuss the key ingredients for successful procurement transformation. 

Tom emphasises the importance of aligning procurement with high-level business objectives and applying a framework of people, processes, and technology. Tom also shares his methodology for prioritising transformation efforts and delivering commercial wins. 

He highlights the need for procurement to be perceived as a strategic enabler of the business and offers insights on attracting and developing procurement talent. Tom concludes by discussing the challenges faced by procurement teams and the profession as a whole.


This episode of Talent Talks covers:

1. Align procurement with high-level business objectives to deliver successful transformation.

2. Prioritise transformation efforts based on stakeholder engagement and burning issues.

3. Position procurement as a strategic enabler of the business to elevate its brand.

4. Attract and develop procurement talent with a focus on aptitude, commerciality, and sound judgment.

On this episode, Ben Farrell MBE, discusses his journey from a 23-year military career to becoming the CEO of CIPS. 

He shares insights on leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the challenges and opportunities in the procurement profession. 

Ben emphasises the need for CIPS to evolve and better represent procurement professionals globally, while also highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment for career development in procurement. 

They explore the challenges and opportunities facing procurement professionals today, particularly in the context of global supply chains and the integration of AI. Additionally, the conversation touches on Ben’s involvement with the Invictus Games Foundation.

Some of the key moments during this podcast include:

Ben Farrell joined CIPS to drive change in procurement.

Human emotion plays a crucial role in leadership effectiveness.

Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging but rewarding.

CIPS has the potential to be a global leader in procurement.

Ben aims to make CIPS more inclusive and relevant to all stages of a procurement career.

The future of procurement requires adapting to changing global dynamics. 

Marketing the procurement profession is crucial for attracting new talent.

Procurement must shift from a process-oriented mindset to a strategic one.

Global supply chains require resilience and adaptability in the face of disruptions.

The Invictus Games Foundation supports the recovery of wounded servicemen and women.

Talent in procurement is about finding the right fit for individuals.

Continuous improvement is essential for professional bodies to remain relevant.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ben Farrell

01:15 Early Career and Military Background

04:37 Leadership Lessons from the Army

08:00 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

12:17 Experiences at John Lewis

15:33 Becoming CEO of CIPS

18:40 Global Perspectives on Procurement

20:17 Challenges and Opportunities for CIPS

25:26 Marketing the Procurement Profession

30:11 The Future of Procurement

34:22 Navigating Challenges in Procurement

38:50 Global Supply Chains

43:01 Invictus Games Foundation

45:58 Defining Talent in Procurement

Summary

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Brad Mills, the first recruit of Talent Drive, about his experience in procurement recruitment. 

They discuss the challenges and opportunities in the retail and hospitality sector, the market outlook for 2024, and the changes in procurement recruitment over the years. 

Brad shares tips for hiring and emphasises the importance of diversity and agility of thought in the hiring process. They also highlight the value of industry experience in recruitment. Brad provides insights into the current state of procurement recruitment and offers valuable advice for both hiring managers and candidates.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

1.        The retail and hospitality sector faced challenges in 2023, but there are positive aspects and opportunities for growth in 2024.

2.        Leadership roles are emerging in procurement, creating new opportunities for professionals in the field.

3.        The recruitment process should focus on finding candidates who are a 7 or 8 out of 10, with the right soft skills and potential for development.

4.        Diversity and agility of thought are important in hiring, as they bring different perspectives and ideas to the team.

5.        Industry experience is valuable, but candidates from diverse backgrounds can also bring unique insights and skills.

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Ben Paynter, Procurement Director of Burberry, about his journey into procurement and the challenges and opportunities in the industry. 

Ben shares his transition from sales to procurement and his passion for bringing non-procurement professionals into the field. He discusses the unique challenges of procurement in the retail sector and the need for skill sets related to ESG and CSR. 

Ben emphasises the importance of competency assessment in hiring and providing comprehensive feedback to candidates. He also addresses the war on talent in procurement and the need for more investment and awareness in the profession.

This episode of Talent Talks covers: 

1. Transitioning from sales to procurement offers new opportunities and a different perspective on negotiation and value creation.
2. The retail sector presents unique challenges in procurement, including the need for agility and the close link to a dynamic marketplace.
3. The industry faces challenges in finding and developing procurement talent, including the lack of investment in training and the focus on specific skill sets.
4. Competency assessment and comprehensive feedback are essential in hiring and developing procurement professionals.
5. Companies and individuals in the procurement field should work together to elevate the profession and create more awareness and opportunities.

In this episode of the Talent Talks podcast, Martin Smith interviews Brian Lombard, a manager at Talent Drive. Brian shares his background and how he transitioned from procurement into procurement recruitment. 

He primarily focuses on the interim market and discusses the current opportunities and trends in UK procurement. They also touch on the impact of IR35 regulation and the hiring activity in different sectors. 

Brian provides advice for individuals looking to enter the interim market and shares tips for hiring interim professionals. Finally, they discuss their plans for 2024 and the growth of their business.

This episode of Talent Talks covers: 

1. Transitioning from procurement to recruitment can be a natural progression due to the similar skill sets required.
2. The interim market in UK procurement is currently strong, with opportunities in various sectors such as public sector, risk, and financial services.
3. The impact of IR35 regulation has settled, leading to more confidence in hiring contractors outside IR35.
4. Networking effectively and showcasing specific strengths are crucial for individuals looking to enter the interim market.
5. When hiring interim professionals, it is important to move at a fast pace, align with market salary expectations, and prioritize smooth onboarding.

“The most critical thing right now is to really develop the relationships with the people you work with, spend time with them understand them really well and form as trusting a relationship as you possibly can”

Tim has had a diverse journey in procurement, working in the industry for nearly 20yrs. He began his career joining Tesco on their graduate scheme and hasn’t looked back, working for various companies in retail, automotive and property both in the UK and internationally. He now heads up procurement for one of the largest UK property services companies, where over the last 3 years he has taken the area from a brownfield space to a mature function.

Tim shares his journey into procurement and discusses the importance of emotional intelligence in the field. He highlights the challenges and opportunities in procurement, particularly in managing time and resources. Tim also explores the evolving talent landscape in procurement and emphasises the need for continuous learning and development. 

He discusses the balance between a cash-driven approach and a business partnering approach in procurement.

Tim and Martin discuss the challenges of prioritisation and uncertainty in procurement. They highlight the difficulty of determining priorities and the unpredictable nature of outcomes. They also emphasise the importance of developing strong relationships with stakeholders to navigate the changing business landscape.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

1. Emotional intelligence within procurement.
2. Adaptability and being open to change within the industry
3. Focusing on business priorities while striving for continuous improvement
4. Embracing new challenges and experiences.
5. Building strong relationships

“We need suppliers who understand what it's like from underrepresented groups’ perspectives, because those often are the groups that we're looking to speak to.”

Supplier diversity is essential to any good procurement professional’s portfolio, which emphasises the importance of the SRM that underpins everything.

That’s a focus area for one of procurement’s most prominent voices, Coventry Building Society’s Rebecca Howard.

Rebecca joins us on Talent Talks to discuss her very purposeful route into procurement, a growing focus on the social element of ESG goals, and the skills that separate average SRM from great SRM.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Rebecca’s determined entry into procurement
• The two top skills that underpin great SRM
• The amazing work on supplier diversity
• Pros and cons of separating SRM from procurement
• Advice for aspiring procurement and SRM leaders

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting.

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to https://www.stavertonconsulting.com/.

“Really push yourself out there - pushing your comfort zone is where you really feel alive.”

Soft skills in procurement are one thing, but employing them to become one of procurement’s most prominent names on social media is another ball game entirely.

If we’re to elevate the profession, it’s the kind of work that Tom Mills puts into his social following which we need to see more often. 

Tom returns for the second in this two-part episode of Talent Talks to discuss the power of stepping out of your comfort zone, how to stand out, and advice for anyone looking to bolster their confidence.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Tom’s powerful experience dealing with Pervasive Anxiety Disorder
• Advice for those wanting to gain confidence when sharing their voice
• Long term aims for Tom’s overall social media push
• The strength of ‘feeling fear and doing it anyway’

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting.

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to https://www.stavertonconsulting.com/.

“Everyone should be learning right through their career. It's actually the power of saying very little, and listening.”

Soft skills are an undoubtedly vital part of any procurement professional’s skillset, but it’s such a vague term for something so key.

That’s why Tom Mills’ advocacy for soft skill development makes him the perfect guest on Talent Talks for a two-part discussion around how new professionals can stay a cut above the rest.

Join us for part 1 with Tom, where he covers the specific skills to develop, a comprehensive approach to stakeholder management, and the challenging language pervading the industry.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Why soft skills have evolved to become 10 times more important than before
• Which specific soft skills are best for budding procurement professionals to develop
• Flipping the narrative in stakeholder management
• The language of procurement and whether it clouds the understanding of how essential soft skills can be

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting.

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to https://www.stavertonconsulting.com/.

“Procurement has been really effective in seeing growth opportunities and saying ‘Let us manage this, we can look after this’.”

While Will Bowley’s route into procurement may not be conventional, his pedigree in the industry matches the impact delivered as Director of Staverton Consulting.

With a unique perspective on the industry, Will joins us on Talent Talks to discuss the biggest challenges facing startup procurement consultancies, procurement’s evolution as a commercial facilitator, and much more.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Positioning procurement for executive visibility
• The ‘seat at the table’ happening organically, not being forced
• Breaking the stigma surrounding consultancies
• Will’s journey into business ownership & taking the plunge
• Procurement’s evolution as a commercial facilitator
• Leaders & CPOs seizing opportunities and leading agendas

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting.

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to https://www.stavertonconsulting.com/.

“It’s not hard to find bodies if you want bodies, but the best people have options. You’ve got to be approaching them.”

When good procurement people have the power to choose their path, it takes proactivity to create a quality team - as Sermet Baykaner has done proficiently through his career to date. 

With names like Carnival and Unilever under his belt, Sermet - Bourne Leisure’s Group Procurement Director - is this week’s fantastic guest on the Talent Talks podcast.

Join us as we touch on attracting talent in a competitive market, convincing the C-suite to support the procurement agenda, and integrating sustainability business-wide.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Building sustainability into the overall strategy
• How to attract talent when good people have options
• Solving the C-suite’s needs, rather than focusing on what you can deliver
• What’s evolved in procurement and how Sermet has adapted to that

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting.

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to https://www.stavertonconsulting.com/.

“We have all these other things that we can do, but the end game that the Chief Executive wants is the value that you're giving them.”

The procurement industry is ever-evolving with shifting skillsets, constrained talent pool and a new age of technology & automation - it’s on us to evolve with it. 

We hosted an incredible Talent Talks Live event at Landsec in September, where we delighted in a panel with Visa’s S-J Aldridge, Specsavers’ Carl Ferrand and AWE’s Jonathan Patrick.

Join us for this live podcast episode where they touch on reframing our value, strategy vs tactical operating, and ChatGPT’s role in procurement’s future.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Our value in procurement, and whether we need to reframe/market that value better
• Crafting procurement as a more strategic function, shedding transactional activities
• How the talent pool has shifted, particularly post-pandemic
• The balance of technical skill vs commercial skill
• AI’s uses in the future of procurement

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting.

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to https://www.stavertonconsulting.com/.

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Richard Evans, Executive Commercial Director for NHS Supply Chain. 

Richard shares valuable insights from his extensive career in procurement, discussing his transition from consultancy to the NHS, the importance of purpose in his work, and the challenges faced by the NHS Supply Chain. 

He emphasises the need for collaboration, effective team management, and the evolving landscape of procurement, particularly in the healthcare sector. 

Richard also reflects on his career and the skills he values in procurement talent, concluding with quickfire questions about his inspirations and views on the future of procurement.

Takeaways

Collaboration and people management are key to successful procurement.

Integrating previously separate organisations into one cohesive unit has been a challenge for the NHS Supply Chain.

Value-based procurement is essential for improving patient outcomes.

Richard advocates for a people-first approach in leadership.

Adaptability and agility are crucial in the ever-changing landscape of healthcare.

The future of procurement is pivotal, with a focus on innovation and technology.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction

02:55 From Consultancy to NHS Supply Chain

05:49 Purpose in Procurement

09:10 Challenges in NHS Supply Chain

12:05 Team Management

15:02 Change in the NHS

17:52 Qualities in Procurement Talent

21:13 Future of Procurement

24:02 Reflections on Career

26:47 Quickfire Questions

“The challenge is finding somebody with a really good set of soft skills, and that transcends both public and private sectors.”

When it comes to recruiting exciting new procurement talent, good apprenticeships can be the perfect combination of experience and learning.

Emma Law’s sustained efforts to create such apprenticeship opportunities are becoming fruitful, alongside her already stellar decade at Orbis Partnership.

We’re joined by Emma on Talent Talks to discuss the major challenges facing public sector procurement hiring, why we need to push harder on ESG, and AI’s role in procurement’s future.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• The main challenges with recruiting new talent into the public sector
• How public scrutiny affects decision making
• Which skills transcend the divide between public and private sectors
• How early we should bring procurement language into education
• AI’s role in the future of procurement, and the time it’ll free up for strategic thinking

The Talent Talks Podcast is proudly sponsored by Staverton Consulting. 

Staverton Consulting delivers tangible and sustainable cost reduction as well as reducing business risks throughout the supply chain for private equity backed businesses, SME’S and growth companies. For more information please head to stavertonconsulting.com.

“Procurement was once the gatekeeper to the marketplace. Technology speeds up how we do things, and brings the external market to internal stakeholders.”

The one defence we have against extinction of any kind is adaptation. It might be drastic to suggest procurement is on the brink of extinction, but it certainly needs to adapt…

Whether it’s in the attraction of new talent or moving away from gatekeeping suppliers, Thames Water’s David Wylie has seen first hand the power of shifting focus and making changes.

David joins us for Talent Talks this week to share key learnings from roles in TfL & Centrica, how to deliver meaningful social value, and the three most important words in procurement.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• How the procurement industry needs to shift to stay relevant
• Evolving observations in procurement talent
• The power of bringing ‘relentless insight’ into your business
• Operating in environments with very different regulatory challenges
• Delivery of social value at Thames Water

“Marketing, arguably more so than other categories, needs to be seen as an investment for growth, not a cost to be cut.”

There’s a boldness that roles in Nike, Danone and Reckitt would give anyone, and Stuart Dunk has funnelled that boldness into a business that’s now over 3 years strong.

Stuart’s specialism is in marketing procurement, an area which he believes to lean further towards value over cost than almost any other category.

Having experienced landmark roles in huge brands, and now growing his business, Don't Forget to Look, his experience makes for a fascinating perspective on the marketing procurement landscape in this week’s Talent Talks.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Stuart’s work on London 2012 and subsequent career with Nike, Reckitt & Danone
• How to increase engagement with procurement through intuitive buying processes
• Stakeholder management being a near-universal skill
• Marketing’s status as an investment in growth
• Attracting and retaining marketing procurement talent
• How Stuart used the confidence of prior roles to start his own business as a ‘poacher turned gamekeeper’

“Build yourself a great team, and build a team that challenges you. You can't do it all yourself, you're only as good as the people around you.”

With huge, long-spanning roles at Diageo and Compass Group, Oliver Cock has developed the blueprints for successful procurement change, fulfilling leadership, and introducing category management from scratch.

Oliver is an incredibly experienced procurement leader, and now CEO of Zircon Consulting, which makes him wonderfully placed to weigh in on the virtues of great leadership, empathy, talent management, and so much more.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Oliver’s long and illustrious career through CPO, MD and other leadership roles
• Introducing category management from scratch by focusing on quick wins in core areas
• Working with key stakeholders for greater buy-in from the wider business
• Recruiting new talent with attitude over aptitude
• Empathy and clarity of direction being essential in procurement leadership

“There’s a hidden cost - the cost of bad deals because you don’t choose to use interim resources.”

Since 2021’s reforms, IR35 has been a major factor in the channels through which procurement resource is found, and Mark Coulson has become a guiding light through the confusion.

Having spent many years specialising in IR35, he’s perfectly placed to share with us on Talent Talks how to navigate the main sticking points around contractors and interim staff.

We also break down how the specialist knowledge of interim procurement professionals can save thousands through the simple power of subject expertise.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• An overview of IR35 and the precedents set by case law
• Simplifying how to spot what should lie within IR35
• Avoiding scope creep
• The powerful use cases where interim procurement is invaluable
• How interim resource can prevent the potential added cost of bad deals

“I love seeing people grow and flourish. It’s fulfilling and quite humbling that you've been part of someone else's success and growth..”

Bringing together the best of both worlds is a powerful procurement strategy for those with private and public sector experience - Divyesh Lad combines those in a challenging utility sector.

The Head of Commercial Services for United Utilities joins us on episode 76 of Talent Talks as we consider the skills gap in today’s market, how to manage teams & help them flourish, flexing your communication style, and much more.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Challenges and opportunities unique to the utilities sector
• Filling the skills gap in the market
• Transferable skills throughout the profession & combining experiences
• Learning how to manage people effectively, and help them to evolve and flourish

“We should always remember opportunity cost - sometimes time itself is much more valuable and important than a potential monetary saving.”

Across a career that’s spanned THG, Sky and now Epos Now, Isabella Moise has thrived in her roles with an ability to marry the needs of stakeholders with wildly conflicting ideas of success.

Now in a Head of Procurement role early in her career, Isabella’s insight into the importance of understanding culture and delivering confidence in negotiation comes from a fascinating, unique perspective.

Isabella joins Martin this week on Talent talks to discuss her stellar path in the profession, and offers her shrewd advice for young, female procurement leaders in the making.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Juggling the needs of conflicting stakeholders
• Bringing confidence into a negotiation scenario
• Why the negotiating process relies on more than simple messaging
• Opportunity cost and the value of time vs money in procurement
• Overcoming challenges to become a role model in D&I
• The need to return to goals around CSR and sustainability

“As a consultant I had direct access to the chief executive. As a secondee, to go anywhere near the chief executive wasn’t going to happen.”

The procurement consultancy world has its draws, from intense and varied experiences to, at times, greater access within the business.

That said, Daniel Abda has worked on both consultancy and in-house teams, currently with Efficio and previously leading an Asset Management programme for the London Olympic Games.

This week on Talent Talks, Daniel takes us through the distinctions between consultancy and in-house, how to handle intense & strict external deadlines, and whether AI could have procurement functions cutting jobs to make new savings…

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Daniel’s work on the procurement organisation strategy for the London 2012 Olympic Games
• How to respond to being given unrealistic targets
• Consultancy procurement experience, and how it stacks up against being part of an in-house team
• Managing rising energy costs and sustainability goals
• AI tools, and whether it could cut jobs in the industry

“Procurement’s relevance depends on our ability to embrace technological change.”

Greenfield procurement presents an opportunity that most procurement professionals would relish, a chance which Robert Jones has taken with open arms at Community Fibre.

Currently Senior Procurement Manager in a function that he’s helped to grow since roles at The AA and Johnson & Johnson, Robert joins Martin Smith on Talent Talks to discuss the growth of procurement and how technology is core to staying relevant.

We also take a look at who’s responsible for the sustainability agenda, managing stakeholder expectations, and consider the value of CIPS qualification in the future.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• How to get a greenfield procurement function started and making impact
• Addressing expectations of procurement and potential pushback by working to solve stakeholders’ challenges
• How useful the CIPS qualification can be in the day-to-day, real world
• Procurement’s responsibility for sustainability agendas vs the rest of a company

This episode of Talent Talks is sponsored by 4C Associates – a leading European procurement and supply chain consultancy, who work collaboratively with forward-thinking clients to deliver real business value across a wide range of transformation and cost optimisation service offerings. Visit https://www.4cassociates.com/ for more information.

“This is actually a great time to be in procurement, because it's a time to shine.”

Andrew Smith’s career has taken him from huge roles in Royal Mail to international leadership with Avis Budget in Copenhagen, an industry forced recently to rapidly evolve.

As a result of such impressive experiences across several decades, Andrew has a keen eye on what it takes to create impact while respecting the various stakeholders one might have.

Andrew joins us on Talent Talks to discuss how he grows a relatively immature function, builds relationships, handles hurdles, and why now is a fantastic time to be in procurement.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• The route to grow from a small function into one with global reach
• Understanding an organisation’s culture before implementing change
• Utilising industry-wide issues as an opportunity to evolve
• Shifts and trends towards localisation and quality of supply

This episode of Talent Talks is sponsored by 4C Associates – a leading European procurement and supply chain consultancy, who work collaboratively with forward-thinking clients to deliver real business value across a wide range of transformation and cost optimisation service offerings. Visit https://www.4cassociates.com/ for more information.

On this episode, Fraser McBeth, Procurement Director at Volta Trucks, shares his journey from working in established OEMs to leading procurement in a startup environment. 

He discusses the unique challenges faced during the transition, particularly during the company's bankruptcy, and how he navigated these difficult times while maintaining team morale and supplier relationships. 

Fraser emphasises the importance of building a high-performance culture, adapting to technological changes, and fostering open communication within the team. 

He reflects on the lessons learned throughout this journey and offers insights for others considering a similar path in the startup world.

Takeaways

Startups require a different mindset and approach than established companies.

Navigating cash flow is crucial in a startup environment.

Building strong supplier relationships can provide access to valuable technology.

Creating a high-performance culture involves continuous improvement and engagement.

Transparency with the team fosters trust and resilience.

Adapting to technological advancements is necessary for competitiveness.

Flexibility in work arrangements can enhance talent acquisition.

Leadership during tough times requires a balance of support and accountability.

Learning from experiences in a startup can shape future career paths.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Volta Trucks

02:46 From OEM to Startup

06:08 Bankruptcy

11:51 Leadership in Crisis

17:57 Building a High-Performance Culture

24:00 Supplier Relationships

30:07 Reflection and Future Outlook

“People make the world go round. If you ever have a problem, it's often the people that you've won over who will back you up or help you out.”

Whether it’s through his own procurement leadership roles or rich experience in consulting and training, Oliver Jones knows the key to presenting procurement’s value.

Return on investment extends beyond numbers, and when it’s time to get people on board, Oliver’s emphasis on people is not to be overlooked…

The Managing Consultant with Elixirr joins us on Talent Talks to discuss C-suite engagement, ‘keeping the exec out of jail’, winning over stakeholders, and how tech can’t solve all our future challenges.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• How procurement’s ROI should be measured more holistically
• Key differences between sectors, and the need to adapt your style of communication
• The power of winning over key stakeholders to become your ambassadors
• Taking people on your procurement transformation journey
• IQ vs EQ in leadership roles

“It comes back to innovation: what could we do differently to get ourselves through this difficult period?”

Whether you’re among the largest corporations in the world, or the bustling startups growing through adversity, innovation needs to be at the heart of your procurement function.

Applying that principle at both ends of the spectrum with Coca-Cola and Mum & You, David Cowell is the perfect guest on Talent Talks to weigh in on building a successful function from scratch, and retaining your top talent.

Tune into this week’s episode for a look at how David handled a function spanning over 13 countries, whether centralised procurement trumps decentralised procurement, and offers invaluable insight for professionals ready to move up the ladder.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• David’s several decades’ experience in huge, multinational companies such as Coca-Cola and Nestle
• How to recruit and retain the best talent through methods beyond remuneration
• Taking on the challenge of setting up a supply chain from scratch
• Weighing up the advantages of centralised vs decentralised procurement functions
• Invaluable advice for aspiring procurement leaders

This episode of Talent Talks is sponsored by 4C Associates – a leading European procurement and supply chain consultancy, who work collaboratively with forward-thinking clients to deliver real business value across a wide range of transformation and cost optimisation service offerings. Visit https://www.4cassociates.com/ for more information.

“Ultimately, the challenges for a procurement function are very similar, but going into a different environment helps you grow.”

There’s no substitute for the level of depth and breadth of experience that Tracey Williamson has developed over the course of her illustrious career as a procurement leader.

From roles in several major blue chip organisations like Nissan, Tesco, Vodafone and many more, she’s cracked the key to creating transformative change in any procurement function.

We dive into her focus on good data, the conscious effort to diversify skills and sectors, and how diversity and inclusion has evolved throughout her time in the industry.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Why you should broaden your experience rather than strive to just climb the ladder
• The nuances of public sector roles
• Managing and using spend data to create transformation
• The key attributes of successful procurement professionals
• How everyone can better support the growth of diversity and inclusion across the board

This episode of Talent Talks is sponsored by 4C Associates – a leading European procurement and supply chain consultancy, who work collaboratively with forward-thinking clients to deliver real business value across a wide range of transformation and cost optimisation service offerings. Visit https://www.4cassociates.com/ for more information.

“If you are purely doing procurement and commercial on paper, the paper doesn't stand the litmus test,”

Victoria Cope’s career roles are supremely varied and her credentials numerous, so she serves as a perfect example of how wide ranging experiences can aid procurement leaders in succeeding at the highest level.

With an Aeronautical Engineering background, over 20 years in the Defence & Security sector, and several awards for her contributions to the industry, she’s now the Commercial & Category Director for the UK Health Security Agency.

Such an array of knowledge inevitably led to a fascinating discussion on Talent Talks this week, covering the delicate balance between public service and commerciality, necessary steps to boost diversity, why strong relationships beat procurement on paper, and so much more.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

• Victoria’s route into procurement, being a chartered Aeronautical Engineer by background
• Procurement’s biggest relationship lessons learned from the pandemic
• The successful evolution and further advancements needed within diversity and inclusion
• Balancing the health of the nation with maintaining her function’s commerciality
• The growth of social value and ESG