Welcome to Powering Procurement, a podcast by Atamis, where we delve into the rapidly evolving world of procurement. In each episode, we feature in-depth conversations with industry leaders, technology innovators, and procurement professionals who share their insights on how digital technologies, AI, and data-driven decision-making are shaping the procurement landscape. Join us to gain actionable strategies and tools to enhance your procurement processes, reduce costs, and drive better decisions within your organisation.
In this episode of Powering Procurement , we’re joined by Tomos Lewis, Partner at Blake Morgan, who brings a grounded, real-world legal perspective to one of the most complex and evolving areas in the profession. Tomos’ journey into procurement law didn’t follow a typical path. From learning the basics the night before an interview to advising NHS England on nationally critical projects from day one, his story highlights just how dynamic and impactful this field can be. We explore what procurement law actually looks like in practice, beyond policy documents and theory. Tomos shares how legal and procurement teams work together across major public sector projects, and why early involvement is often the difference between smooth delivery and costly delays. The conversation dives into the Procurement Act 2023 and what it really means for organisations on the ground. From increased flexibility to new challenges around documentation, transparency, and capability, Tomos offers a clear and pragmatic view of how the changes are playing out. We also take a closer look at the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Act and what it means for Welsh organisations, including the growing role of procurement in delivering wider social, environmental, and economic outcomes. AI is another key theme, with Tomos sharing where it can genuinely add value across the procurement lifecycle, and where the risks start to outweigh the benefits, particularly when it comes to evaluation and accountability. This episode is packed with insight for procurement professionals, leaders, and anyone navigating change in the sector. It is a reminder that procurement is not just a process to follow, but a powerful tool that, when used well, can drive meaningful impact.
In this episode of Powering Procurement , we’re joined by Simon Brindle, Director of Commercial and Procurement at Welsh Government, to explore how procurement is evolving into one of the most powerful levers for public sector impact. With over 30 years’ experience across government, HM Treasury and the private sector, Simon brings a unique perspective on how procurement can go far beyond buying goods and services. From shaping major infrastructure decisions to driving social value, sustainability and economic growth, this conversation highlights the real influence procurement can have when it’s positioned at the heart of decision-making. We discuss: Why procurement is no longer just a transactional function How public sector spend can create jobs, drive innovation and support net zero The opportunities created by the new Procurement Act and evolving legislation in Wales How digital transformation and AI are changing procurement teams The importance of having procurement at the top table The skills and mindset needed for the next generation of procurement professionals Simon also shares practical examples from his career, including transforming funding models for schools in Wales and unlocking millions in value through smarter commercial thinking. This is a powerful conversation about influence, leadership and the opportunity procurement professionals have to shape outcomes long before a contract is signed. Because, as Simon puts it… procurement is where the magic happens.
In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Emma Briggs , Director of Procurement and Sustainability at Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing , to explore the evolving role of procurement in the housing sector and why the profession is entering a new era of influence. Emma shares how she “fell into” procurement early in her career but quickly discovered the variety, problem solving and relationship building that makes the profession so rewarding. Now leading strategic procurement within a major housing association, she reflects on what it means to work in a sector where commercial decisions have a direct impact on people’s homes and communities. The conversation explores the unique pressures facing housing procurement today, including regulatory scrutiny, building safety requirements, sustainability expectations and the need to demonstrate clear value for money. Emma discusses why data, performance insight and strong supplier relationships are becoming central to delivering meaningful outcomes. We also look at the growing importance of collaboration across the sector through the National Housing Procurement Association , where Emma serves as Commercial Lead, helping to build capability, share good practice and create greater consistency for suppliers and procurement professionals alike. Looking ahead, Emma shares her optimism for the future of the profession, explaining how the new Procurement Act has created an opportunity for procurement teams to move beyond tactical delivery and demonstrate their value as strategic enablers. A thoughtful and inspiring conversation about purpose-driven procurement, leadership, and the real-world impact the profession can have on people’s lives.
In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Olivia Hughes , Social Value Manager at Liverpool City Council , to explore how social value has evolved from policy ambition into a daily delivery requirement within local government. Olivia shares her journey from the private sector into public service, bringing a unique dual perspective from both supplier and client sides of procurement. She discusses how social value has shifted from being a misunderstood concept following the 2012 Social Value Act to becoming a central strategic driver across commissioning and procurement activity. The conversation explores: Why procurement is one of the most powerful levers for driving tangible community impact The balance between commercial outcomes and social value commitments How the new Procurement Act is creating space for innovation and flexibility The realities of measuring social value using frameworks such as TOMS Why digital systems are only as effective as the foundations behind them The importance of leadership buy-in and dedicated resource to embed cultural change Olivia also reflects on the mindset that separates suppliers who genuinely deliver social value from those who treat it as a compliance exercise, and shares practical insight into building processes that are human, proportionate and truly deliverable. A thoughtful and energising discussion about making every public pound work harder - and ensuring procurement delivers real, measurable impact for communities.
In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Lorraine Sawyer , Procurement Director at Orbit Group , to explore what modern procurement leadership really looks like across regulated, purpose-led organisations. Lorraine shares her deliberately chosen journey into procurement, from studying the discipline at university through to senior leadership roles spanning heavy industry and housing. With experience at Tata Steel, British Steel, Home Group, Anchor and now Orbit, she brings a rare perspective on balancing commercial rigour with public service values. The conversation explores the contrasts between procurement in steel and housing, the resilience required in challenging sectors, and why social purpose has become central to Lorraine’s leadership approach. We discuss the realities of working in a highly regulated environment, including changing consumer standards, building safety requirements and the impact of the Procurement Act, alongside the need to remain commercially focused and adaptable. Lorraine also shares practical insight into supplier relationship management, social value in practice, and how housing providers and suppliers can work together to deliver meaningful outcomes for residents and communities. We explore the role of technology in improving procurement efficiency and service delivery, and how digital transformation can create better experiences for both teams and customers. The episode closes with Lorraine’s reflections on leadership, team culture and what success looks like when procurement is truly embedded as a trusted partner within the organisation, as well as why she continues to find procurement a rewarding and dynamic career after more than 20 years in the profession.
In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Nicola Cullen and Tom Beard from Capital Law to explore how procurement teams can manage legal risk with confidence under the new UK Procurement Act. Nicola and Tom bring complementary perspectives from non-contentious procurement advisory work and frontline procurement disputes. Together, they unpack what has really changed under the new legislation, including streamlined procedures, enhanced transparency requirements, and the growing administrative burden around notices. The conversation covers common misconceptions procurement teams have about legal compliance, why “fairness” does not always equal legal safety, and how vague evaluation criteria, unclear ITTs, and weak contract management can expose organisations to unnecessary challenge risk. We also explore what makes an ITT legally defensible, why risk is effectively locked in once documents are published, and how early collaboration between legal and procurement teams can prevent costly firefighting later on. Nicola and Tom share real-world examples from live procurements, offering practical lessons without naming names. The episode also looks ahead, discussing the role of AI in procurement, where it can genuinely add value, where caution is needed, and how transparency, accountability, and audit trails must remain central. Finally, they reflect on the future of the profession, why procurement capability is rising, and why this is an exciting moment for both procurement and legal professionals working closely together. A must-listen for procurement leaders, legal teams, and anyone navigating public sector procurement reform.
In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Luke Banks , Global Head of Contracts and Procurement at Plastic Energy , a business at the forefront of transforming plastic waste into a truly circular economy. Luke shares his journey from engineering into procurement, explaining why his move was a deliberate career choice rather than an accident. With experience spanning manufacturing, construction, healthcare, retail and energy, he reflects on how a technical background can strengthen negotiation, supplier relationships and strategic decision-making. We explore how procurement supports Plastic Energy’s global sustainability mission, from responsible supplier onboarding and ESG metrics to risk analytics and strategic partnerships. Luke also offers candid insight into building procurement functions in fast-growing organisations, leading teams through change, and balancing strategy with operational delivery. The conversation dives into digital transformation, AI, and why well-implemented technology is essential for freeing procurement teams to focus on value rather than administration. Luke also shares what he looks for when recruiting procurement professionals, how the perception of procurement is evolving, and why communication skills are central to long-term success. To round off the episode, Luke talks about his passion for horology and what working in the mechanical watch industry taught him about craftsmanship, supply chains and pursuing work you genuinely care about. A thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation on modern procurement, sustainability, leadership and career choices.
Welcome to a festive edition of Powering Procurement. To close out 2025, Sian and Gareth unwrap the top 12 myths that continue to shape perceptions of procurement across both public and private sectors. Drawing on insights from this year’s standout guests, including leaders from the FCA and the Cabinet Office, they explore why procurement is far more than cost cutting, why strong supplier relationships matter, why sustainability is now a strategic must, and how modern procurement teams influence business direction at the highest level. From the pitfalls of relying on spreadsheets to the growing role of software, from misconceptions about public vs private sector procurement to the all-too-common belief that procurement “slows things down,” this episode tackles the assumptions that hold the profession back. And of course, they finish with the biggest myth of all: that procurement is boring . With stories of risk, innovation, sustainability, competitive negotiation and even sourcing thousands of bottles of sparkling wine from Welsh vineyards, Gareth proves otherwise. Tune in for a lively, myth-busting Christmas countdown that celebrates the depth, diversity and real-world impact of modern procurement - and join us again in 2026 for more fresh perspectives on the profession.
The UK’s biggest procurement transformation in a generation is now live - but what does it really mean in practice? In this episode of Powering Procurement , host Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch sit down with Lindsay Maguire , Deputy Director for Procurement Reform at the UK Cabinet Office , to unpack the thinking, ambition and real-world impact behind the new Procurement Act . Lindsay has played a central role in reshaping the UK’s post-Brexit procurement regime, championing transparency, flexibility, fair competition, and better access for SMEs. Her work spans everything from designing the new central digital platform to shifting evaluation from MEAT to MAT, embedding social value, and modernising how public bodies engage with markets. Together, Sian, Gareth and Lindsay explore: How the Procurement Act was shaped, and why flexibility and proportionality matter What early adopters are already doing differently - and the innovations emerging across the UK The rise of pre-market engagement and why it’s transforming supplier relationships The power of transparency: from pipelines to KPIs and contract performance Why culture, capability and systems are just as important as legislation How the new regime aims to open doors for SMEs and drive fairer competition Insightful, practical and future-focused, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating - or curious about - the new procurement landscape.
In this episode of Powering Procurement , host Sian Lloyd is joined by Paula Corfield , Senior Procurement Manager at Monmouthshire Building Society . With more than 20 years of experience spanning manufacturing, infrastructure, policing and finance, Paula has led procurement through complex change, cultural transformation and strategy development across multiple sectors. Together, Sian and Paula explore: How public-sector experience shaped Paula’s leadership and values The vital role of social value and community impact in both public and private procurement Breaking down barriers and building trust across teams and suppliers The importance of communication, adaptability and emotional intelligence in leading change Encouraging more women into senior procurement roles through mentoring and visibility Candid, inspiring and full of practical insights, this conversation shines a light on the human side of procurement - from resilience and leadership to purpose and progress.
In this episode of Powering Procurement , host Sian Lloyd is joined by Sam Pickford , Head of Procurement at British International Investment (BII) , the UK’s development finance institution. With over 15 years of experience spanning transport, social care, finance, and international investment, Sam brings a rare blend of public sector depth and commercial edge . From leading a £320 million rolling stock renewal for London Underground to building a procurement function that now supports investments across Africa and Asia, Sam’s career offers powerful lessons on resilience, risk, and purpose-driven procurement. Together, Sian and Sam explore: The unique challenges of procurement in emerging markets Balancing commercial priorities with social and development impact What Brexit, Covid and global supply shocks have taught us about resilience How AI and technology are reshaping procurement strategies Why saying “yes” to opportunities can unlock a truly diverse career Candid, insightful, and refreshingly pragmatic, this episode shines a light on the evolving role of procurement and why it’s a career path worth celebrating.
In this episode of Powering Procurement , host Sian Lloyd is joined by Dominic Hastings , Chief Procurement Officer at the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) . With a career spanning public and private sectors - from the Foreign Office to NATS and now leading procurement at one of the UK’s most influential regulators - Dominic brings a wealth of experience in strategic sourcing, supplier management and team leadership. Together, Sian and Dominic explore: How to build and sustain high-performing procurement teams in fast-changing environments What the UK’s procurement reform means in practice, and how to embrace the new freedoms The role of digital transformation in creating space for strategic impact Why procurement’s voice must be heard in the language of business, not just procurement The opportunities (and realities) of AI for procurement professionals today From Oxford PPE graduate to global development, consultancy and now regulatory leadership, Dominic’s career is a testament to curiosity, adaptability and a passion for people. This conversation shines a light on why procurement remains such a rewarding and impactful profession.
In this episode of Powering Procurement , host Sian Lloyd is joined by Harinder Bansal , Head of Procurement and Third Party Risk Management at Motability Operations . Harinder has built his career across retail, pharma, consulting and now one of the UK’s largest fleet operators, supporting more than 800,000 disabled customers. Beyond procurement and risk, he also leads Motability’s Reach Network, championing equity and inclusion, and serves as Chair of Steps Charity. His work sits at the intersection of purpose, innovation and sustainability . Together, Sian and Harinder explore how procurement teams can drive genuine environmental and social impact, from embedding ESG into supplier relationships to championing circular economy practices. Harinder also shares candid insights on setting ambitious net zero targets, building psychological safety in teams, and why diversifying experience beyond procurement can strengthen leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Motability is using its scale to embed ESG and lead the way on sustainability. Practical approaches for balancing cost pressures with long-term social and environmental value. The role of data in managing Scope 3 emissions and shaping supplier transparency. Why networks like Reach matter for building inclusive workplaces. How charitable and community work can shape leadership style. If you’re interested in the future of procurement as a driver of change - not just savings - this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch sit down with Chris McLellan, Group Head of Procurement at Admiral Group, Wales’ only FTSE 100 company. Together, they explore critical challenges in modern procurement risk management. What You’ll Learn How to balance speed and due diligence through effective supplier segmentation and risk classification Why technology platforms are transforming supplier due diligence and risk monitoring The strategic approach to managing cybersecurity risks through supplier assessment and data protection How to develop effective contingency plans for critical suppliers using business continuity planning How procurement teams can leverage data and technology to anticipate and mitigate global supply chain disruptions With over 25 years of experience spanning both public and private sectors, Chris has led significant procurement initiatives across organizations, including Cardiff Council and Atebion Solutions. His expertise in supplier governance, contract strategy, and procurement resilience has been particularly valuable in navigating today's complex risk landscape. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: 13:46 - Leveraging Technology to Streamline Risk Assessment Procurement can't navigate today's complex landscape with outdated maps. Chris highlights the importance of using advanced technology as procurement's GPS, guiding teams swiftly through risk assessments. From AI-driven due diligence platforms to real-time supplier risk analytics, these digital tools help teams stay agile, reduce administrative burden, and shift the focus from reactive troubleshooting to proactive risk management. 18:04 - Cybersecurity Resilience in Procurement Cybersecurity isn't a luxury anymore; it's procurement's oxygen mask in turbulent times. Chris outlines Admiral's rigorous approach to supplier cybersecurity, highlighting proactive assessments, supplier transparency, and shared accountability. Just as airline pilots meticulously check their aircraft systems before takeoff, procurement teams must carefully vet suppliers' cyber defenses. 25:30 - Managing Geopolitical Risks and Supply Chain Uncertainty Geopolitical events are storms on the horizon. Teams must remain vigilant, continually monitoring global developments and adjusting their sourcing strategies accordingly. Chris recommends dual sourcing, strategic partnerships, and sophisticated data analytics to weather these challenges. Just as expert sailors constantly adjust their sails to shifting winds, procurement must pivot rapidly and strategically to maintain stability, ensuring the organization stays on course despite global uncertainty. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ Chris Mclellan on LinkedIn Admiral Group Website Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Travis Crouch sit down with Milind Tailor, Global Head of Resale Products and Services Procurement at Diebold Nixdorf. Together, they navigate "The 4 P's of Procurement" framework: Purpose, People, Planet, and Performance, as well as how AI, sustainability, and skill transformation are reshaping the function. What You’ll Learn: How to elevate procurement from cost-saving to strategic value creation Why procurement professionals need to develop new skills in orchestration, digital fluency, change leadership, and influence The "Total Impact Mindset" framework for measuring procurement success Why sustainability should be viewed as an insurance policy rather than a cost center How AI is freeing procurement teams from transactional tasks to focus on strategic value creation Milind is a thought leader in AI, supplier collaboration, and the future of procurement. With an engineering background and a master's in supply chain and operations, he has transformed procurement from a traditional cost-saving function into a strategic powerhouse. In his role, Milind oversees operations across 60+ countries, managing $1Bn+ in spend while driving efficiency, resilience, and innovation. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: 15:26 - The Four Ps of Procurement Procurement's role is no longer just about cutting costs; it's about creating real business value. Milind introduces the Four Ps of Procurement: Purpose, People, Planet, and Performance. Like a flight crew ensuring a safe journey, procurement must work in harmony across departments to guide the business toward long-term success. That means shifting from being reactive cost controllers to proactive strategic copilots, championing innovation, sustainability, and growth while staying aligned with the company's bigger goals. 29:59 - What Future-Ready Talent Looks Like Procurement professionals need more than just the basics. Negotiation and supplier management still matter, but the future-ready talent goes further. They're collaborators, change leaders, tech-savvy orchestrators, and skilled influencers. It's about synchronizing moving parts, understanding and applying new technologies, leading transformation, and inspiring others. Organizations can build this talent by combining apprenticeships, internal development, and job rotations that let people explore, grow, and shine across the business. 37:34 - Sustainability vs. Business Pressure Procurement has a critical role to play in sustainability, but it's not without challenges. The key shift? Stop thinking in terms of just cost, and start thinking in terms of impact. Sustainable choices might seem expensive upfront, but they're an investment in long-term resilience. To make it work, we need better visibility across the entire supply chain and that means leveraging tech like AI, blockchain, and ESG dashboards. Just as important, align procurement KPIs with sustainability goals. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ Milind Tailor on LinkedIn Diebold Nixdorf Website Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Travis Crouch sit down with Sabrina Kelly, Contracts Management Specialist and Founder and Managing Director of B Plus Management Consultancy. Together, they explore the delicate balance between supplier collaboration and performance accountability, the transformative potential of AI in contract management, and practical strategies for building more inclusive procurement teams. Sabrina has worked with suppliers and corporations across public and private sectors, helping them navigate the complexities of contract performance, risk mitigation, and supplier collaboration. Sabrina is also a Senior Contracts Manager for the UK Ministry of Justice, with a career spanning healthcare, energy, infrastructure, and government procurement. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: 07:06 - Breaking Barriers to Innovation Understanding the business is the key to unlocking innovation and effective procurement. Without that deep understanding, organizations can struggle to move forward. Bringing the right, diverse voices to the table fosters creative solutions and removes roadblocks. Procurement plays a key role in aligning supplier relationships with broader objectives by setting clear expectations before contracts are signed. A proactive, collaborative approach ensures businesses stay agile, accountable, and positioned for long-term success. 16:09 - AI and Digital Transformation in Procurement AI is transforming procurement and contract management, making processes more efficient by handling complex documents and ensuring accuracy. While AI tools can automate tasks like contract analysis and bid responses, human interaction remains essential for strategic discussions and relationship management. Organizations adopting AI must navigate challenges like employee resistance and job security concerns. The key is to balance AI for efficiency while upskilling teams and ensuring people feel engaged and valued in the transition. 22:03 - Driving Inclusion and Mentorship in Procurement True diversity and inclusion require more than good intentions; they demand real, sustained action. Organizations must go beyond surface-level efforts and genuinely embrace inclusive practices, from diverse hiring panels to meaningful mentorship programs. When companies create space for underrepresented talent to be seen, heard, and supported, the impact is profound for the entire industry. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ Sabrina Kelly on LinkedIn Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
In this episode of Powering Procurement , hosts Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch sit down with sustainability expert Oliver Hurrey to explore the intersection of procurement and environmental responsibility. They discuss supplier engagement, data-driven solutions for scope three emissions, AI’s role in sustainability, and the importance of biodiversity. Tune in to discover how procurement professionals can drive real-world change. Oliver Hurrey is a leading voice in sustainable procurement and the founder of Galvanised. He is known for driving key initiatives including the Sustainable Procurement Pledge, the Scope 3 Peer Group, and the Nature and Biodiversity Peer Group. With over 20 years of experience bridging sustainability and procurement, he has become instrumental in helping organisations turn ambitious environmental goals into measurable progress. As a trusted advisor and collaboration catalyst, Oliver specialises in developing practical frameworks for tackling scope three emissions, implementing science-based targets, and fostering effective supply chain partnerships. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: 10:34 - Rethinking Supplier Engagement Strategy Oliver emphasizes that supplier engagement remains the top challenge in sustainable procurement for the past five years. He warns against the common pitfall of overwhelming suppliers with endless surveys and engagement events that don't lead to meaningful action. Instead, procurement professionals should focus on empathizing with suppliers' capabilities and challenges while streamlining data requests. The key is to move beyond mere data collection to driving actual change and improvement. Procurement teams should consider what they'll actually do with the information before requesting it. This approach helps build stronger supplier relationships while achieving concrete sustainability goals. 31:52 - True Collaboration vs. Surface-Level Engagement Oliver distinguishes between different levels of supplier interaction: communication (talking at suppliers), engagement (talking with suppliers), and true collaboration (doing things together). He illustrates this with examples from the automotive industry, where companies collectively help suppliers access renewable energy. Procurement professionals should focus on creating tangible joint initiatives rather than just having discussions. The key is to move beyond traditional supplier management to create mutual value through active partnership. 36:37 - Three Keys to Successful Collaboration Oliver outlines three essential principles for effective collaboration in procurement: first, be prepared to take action rather than just talk; second, clearly define areas of competition versus collaboration with peers; and third, start with obvious quick wins to build momentum. He emphasizes that many organizations waste time in endless meetings when they should focus on implementing obvious solutions. This framework helps procurement teams move from discussion to meaningful action while maintaining appropriate competitive boundaries. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ Oliver Hurrey on LinkedIn Galvanised on LinkedIn Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch are joined by Nadia Stoykov, Chief Procurement and Supply Chain Officer at Tesca Group, to share her unconventional journey from law to procurement, why procurement deserves a seat at the strategic table, and how companies can unlock massive value by rethinking their procurement approach. With decades of experience spanning legal, financial, and commercial roles, Nadia brings a uniquely all-round perspective to procurement transformation and strategic supplier relationships. Her expertise lies in breaking down organizational silos, building high-performing teams, and leveraging procurement as a strategic driver of business value. Before joining Tesca Group, Nadia held leadership roles at companies such as Ahlstrom, Nyrstar, Bristlecone, Valspar, IDEX, and Dow Chemical. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: [10:52] - Procurement's Power Play: Successful procurement starts with people. Before diving into digital tools, companies must position procurement strategically, build a skilled team, and foster strong supplier relationships. Procurement professionals are the face of the company, just like sales teams, representing its values and building trust. Strong communication, meticulous negotiation, and ongoing supplier engagement are essential. Data and technology are powerful, but only if the right people know how to interpret and act on them. [23:51] - The Key to Procurement Success: A strong procurement leader ensures their team understands both the big picture and their specific impact within an organization. Communication is key: missing details can cost companies dearly. While AI and automation can handle tedious tasks, true value comes from human relationships, strategic negotiations, and creative problem-solving. [40:21] - Procurement's Secret Weapon: The best procurement professionals think like salespeople. Stepping into the salesperson's shoes and understanding their goals allows procurement teams to negotiate smarter, securing better terms like consignment stock, improved packaging, or extended payment terms. It's about finding a true win-win, balancing assertiveness with relationship-building. Push too hard, and you risk burning bridges; collaborate strategically, and you create long-term success. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ Nadia Stoykov on LinkedIn Tesca Group Website Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch are joined by John Coyne, Director of Commercial and Procurement at Birmingham City Council. Together, they dive into John's decades-long career, the power of procurement in driving social and economic impact, his vision for Birmingham’s future, and why AI and data are the next frontiers for public sector procurement. John's career in commercial and procurement spans over three decades across diverse sectors. He began his career in the UK working in Irish tourism for 12 years before becoming the first Commercial Director at Liverpool Football Club. For the past 15-18 years, he has focused on public sector procurement, most recently serving in a senior procurement role with the Welsh government before taking his current position at Birmingham City Council in late 2023, John is responsible for transforming Birmingham Council's procurement function following the authority's bankruptcy declaration. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: [11:37] - Future-Proofing Procurement: Procurement in Birmingham is undergoing a major shift, moving beyond just finding the cheapest option to focusing on long-term value-creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and ensuring sustainability. Inspired by successful strategies in Wales, the new approach prioritizes collaboration with suppliers, engaging small and medium enterprises, and aligning procurement with broader social and economic goals. The challenge ahead is modernizing the procurement function, ensuring strong contract management, and unifying Birmingham’s many arms-length organizations under a shared strategy. [18:16] - AI and Data in Public Procurement: AI and data analytics are game-changers in procurement, especially in the public sector, where digital adoption has lagged. AI can handle routine tasks, freeing up skilled professionals for strategic decision-making. However, it lacks creativity and the ability to drive well-being impacts in procurement. The key is to embrace AI for what it does best while focusing human expertise where it truly matters. Additionally, leveraging data more effectively is crucial, as better tracking and reporting on procurement impact will drive smarter decisions, improve transparency, and ensure long-term value creation. [22:15] - The Power of Procurement in Social Impact: Public procurement is evolving, and collaboration is the key to maximizing impact. Birmingham City Council is focused on embedding sustainability, social value, and smarter spending by working closely with schools, healthcare providers, and neighboring authorities. By leveraging data, AI, and digital platforms, they aim to eliminate inefficiencies, drive transparency, and ensure funds are used effectively. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ John Coyne on LinkedIn Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch are joined by Amy Anslow, Principal Consultant at Procurement Heads. Together, they dive into Amy's journey into procurement recruitment and her insights into the evolving landscape of the industry. She highlights the importance of attracting top talent, tackling challenges like unconscious bias, and leveraging AI in recruitment. Though Amy’s journey in procurement recruitment began just a few years ago, she’s already making a significant impact by helping organizations find the talent they need to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. Amy’s work is more than about connecting candidates and companies; it’s about shaping the future of procurement. With a strong focus on diversity, sustainability, and transparency, she’s helping procurement professionals and organizations adapt to new challenges like the upcoming Procurement Act and the growing demand for digital skills. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: [07:06] - Recruitment Challenges in Procurement: Organizations face a major challenge in recruiting top-tier procurement professionals due to a workforce deficit and over-reliance on traditional recruitment methods, such as job ads targeting only active candidates. With just 10% of the candidate's pool representing the top talent, it's crucial to tap into the passive candidate market through strategic approaches like specialized recruiters, behavioral assessments, and engaging networks via webinars, events, and thought leadership. [12:42] - Redefining Recruitment with AI: AI and virtual processes are transforming recruitment, but finding the right balance between efficiency and empathy is key. Candidates often feel disconnected or unable to perform their best during AI-led interviews, which can lead to missed opportunities for both talent and organizations. Companies should focus on creating a personalized candidate experience, like providing detailed value-packed candidate packs or integrating behavioral and cultural assessments alongside technical evaluations. [25:23] - How to Build a Truly Inclusive Workforce: To truly build a diverse and inclusive workforce, organizations must address unconscious bias, provide training for hiring managers, and implement standardized recruitment processes that highlight behavioral assessments and balanced scorecards over gut feelings. Authenticity is key. Companies must genuinely live their diversity values. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/ How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/ Amy Anslow on LinkedIn Procurement Heads Website Procurement Jobs | Expert recruitment with Procurement Heads Find your next Head of Procurement | Procurement Heads Professional Procurement Insights | Recruitment Insights Procurement Heads Industry Insights Report Powering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so
