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Published by Donna Bowden & Laura Sellers
Honest conversations and fresh perspectives to help procurement professionals, wherever you are in your career. Navigate change, grow with confidence and shape a career on your terms. Co-hosted by Donna Bowden (Procurement Career Coach, Founder of Narrate Your Career) and Laura Sellers (Executive & Leadership Coach, Founder of Coaching for Procurement) who bring a combined 20+ years of supporting procurement growth
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Send us Fan Mail Procurement stakeholder management, stakeholder relationships, procurement leadership, influence, business partnering and procurement careers are all critical to becoming a successful procurement leader. Strong stakeholder relationships don't happen by chance. They're built through trust, curiosity, credibility and consistency. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore what successful procurement leaders do differently when it comes to building relationships and influence across their organisations. Whilst technical procurement skills remain important, your ability to understand, engage and influence stakeholders will often determine your long-term success as a leader. We discuss: Why successful stakeholder relationships start long before you need something The difference between managing stakeholders and genuinely building relationships How curiosity helps you understand what really matters to your stakeholders Why listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills in procurement How adapting your communication style builds trust and credibility Why consistency in your actions shapes your reputation over time The importance of understanding your stakeholders' priorities, pressures and motivations How every interaction contributes to procurement's reputation within the business Why influence is built through credibility, empathy and adding value, not authority Practical ways to strengthen your stakeholder relationships and increase your impact as a procurement leader This episode builds on many of the themes we explore around procurement leadership, influence and career progression. Because successful procurement leaders don't just manage stakeholders. They build trusted relationships that create lasting influence. New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify. Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots. Get in Touch If this episode resonated, we'd love to hear your thoughts. And if you'd like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com About Procurement Pivots We are passionate about supporting the people behind procurement success. Between us, we bring over 25 years of experience supporting procurement leaders in a variety of different ways, and we combine our diverse coaching expertise to bring to life the conversations from the coaching room that deserve a spotlight in today's challenging and ever-changing procurement landscape. We're proud to have built strong reputations as trusted coaches in the procurement space, supporting individuals and teams to navigate complexity, strengthen their leadership and progress with greater clarity and confidence. From positioning, visibility and career progression, through to leadership development, influence and navigating change, we've supported procurement professionals across every stage of their journey. Because success in procurement isn't just about what you deliver. It's about how you show up, how you're perceived and how you create opportunities. About Donna Bowden Donna Bowden is a Procurement Career Coach and Founder of Narrate Your Career, supporting senior procurement professionals to build clarity, confidence and visibility in their careers. With over 20 years' experience in procurement leadership hiring, she brings deep insight into what hiring managers are really looking for and how to position yourself effectively to identify, create and secure the right opportunities in your procurement career. If this resonates and you're a procurement leader in the UK who is serious about making a considered and intentional next move, you're very welcome to explore working with Donna here: https://www.narrateyourcareer.com/book-a-call About Laura Sellers Laura Sellers is an Executive and Leadership Coach, specialising in coaching for procurement professionals and teams. Drawing on her background in procurement and procurement development, she supports individuals and organisations to develop leadership capability, strengthen self-awareness and build coaching skills that elevate their impact, influence and performance. Laura also leads an ILM-accredited coaching centre, helping procurement professionals and organisations develop practical coaching capability and gain recognised ILM coaching qualifications that strengthen leadership and create lasting impact across their teams. If you're a procurement professional or organisation looking to develop coaching and leadership capability, or explore an ILM coaching qualification, you can connect with Laura here: https://www.coachingforprocurement.co.uk/contact-me
Send us Fan Mail Procurement leadership, first 90 days, stepping into a new role, procurement career progression, stakeholder management and leadership success are all critical factors when moving into a new procurement leadership role. You’ve secured the role. But what you do next will define your success. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore how to successfully prepare for and step into a new procurement leadership role, focusing on what really matters in those first few months. Too often, procurement professionals invest heavily in securing the role, only to leave their transition and early impact to chance. This is where success is either accelerated or undermined. We discuss: How your first impressions shape your credibility with your boss, team and stakeholders Why stepping into a new role is an opportunity to reset how you show up as a leader The importance of understanding team dynamics, legacy and stakeholder expectations Why the reality of the role often differs from what you were told in the process How to assess the maturity of the function and identify the real starting point The mental stretch and transition that comes with stepping into a new leadership role How to set boundaries early to protect your time, energy and decision-making The risk of trying to prove yourself too quickly and saying yes to everything Why alignment with your boss and stakeholders is critical, and how to check it effectively The importance of building support around you, not just focusing on supporting others This episode builds on many of the themes we explore around procurement leadership, visibility and career progression. Because success in procurement isn’t just about securing the role. It’s about how you show up once you’re in it. New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Get in touch If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com About Procurement Pivots We are passionate about supporting the people behind procurement success. Between us, we bring over 25 years of experience supporting procurement leaders in a variety of different ways, and we combine our diverse coaching expertise to bring to life the conversations from the coaching room that deserve a spotlight in today’s challenging and ever-changing procurement landscape. We’re proud to have built strong reputations as trusted coaches in the procurement space, supporting individuals and teams to navigate complexity, strengthen their leadership and progress with greater clarity and confidence. From positioning, visibility and career progression, through to leadership development, influence and navigating change, we’ve supported procurement professionals across every stage of their journey. Because success in procurement isn’t just about what you deliver. It’s about how you show up, how you’re perceived and how you create opportunities. About Donna Bowden Donna Bowden is a Procurement Career Coach and Founder of Narrate Your Career, supporting senior procurement professionals to build clarity, confidence and visibility in their careers. With over 20 years’ experience as a recruitment leader, she brings deep insight into what hiring managers are really looking for and how to position yourself effectively to identify, create and secure the right opportunities in your procurement career. If this resonates and you’re a procurement leader in the UK who is serious about making a considered and intentional next move, you’re very welcome to explore working with Donna here: https://www.narrateyourcareer.com/book-a-call About Laura Sellers Laura Sellers is an Executive and Leadership Coach, specialising in coaching for procurement professionals and teams. She supports individuals and organisations to develop leadership capability, strengthen self-awareness and build coaching skills that elevate their impact and influence. Laura also leads an ILM-accredited coaching centre, supporting procurement professionals to gain recognised coaching qualifications and develop practical coaching capability within their teams. If you’re a procurement professional or team looking to develop coaching and leadership capability, or explore gaining an ILM coaching qualification, you can connect with Laura to find out more. https://www.coachingforprocurement.co.uk/contact-me
Send us Fan Mail Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Curiosity Curiosity is a critical skill in procurement leadership, yet many procurement professionals don’t fully understand how to apply it in their day-to-day role. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore how curiosity, questioning and self-awareness can elevate your procurement career, strengthen stakeholder relationships and improve decision making. We discuss: What curiosity really looks like in a procurement context and why it goes beyond simply asking more questions How asking the right questions can improve decision making, stakeholder relationships and business outcomes Why many procurement professionals feel the pressure to have the answers, and how this can limit their effectiveness The difference between open and closed questions, and how to use them more intentionally in meetings and conversations How curiosity helps you uncover what really matters, rather than accepting surface-level information The role of curiosity in building trust, collaboration and influence across the business Why curiosity starts with self, including understanding your own behaviours, reactions and decision making How self-awareness and curiosity work together to strengthen your leadership capability Practical ways to build curiosity as a habit in your day-to-day procurement role This episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around procurement leadership, influence and career progression. Because the most effective procurement leaders aren’t always the ones with the answers. They’re the ones asking the right questions. 🎧 New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Get in Touch If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com About Procurement Pivots We are passionate about supporting the people behind procurement success. Between us, we bring over 25 years of experience supporting procurement leaders in a variety of different ways, and we combine our diverse coaching expertise to bring to life the conversations from the coaching room that deserve a spotlight in today’s challenging and ever-changing procurement landscape. Over the past few years, we’ve built strong reputations as trusted coaches in the procurement space, supporting individuals and teams to navigate complexity, strengthen their leadership and progress with greater clarity and confidence. From positioning, visibility and career progression, through to leadership development, influence and navigating change, we’ve supported procurement professionals across every stage of their journey. Because success in procurement isn’t just about what you deliver. It’s about how you show up, how you’re perceived and how you create opportunities. About Donna Bowden Donna Bowden is a Procurement Career Coach and Founder of Narrate Your Career, supporting senior procurement professionals to build clarity, confidence and visibility in their careers. With over 20 years’ experience as a recruitment leader, she brings deep insight into what hiring managers are really looking for and how to position yourself effectively to identify, create and secure the right opportunities in your procurement career. If this resonates and you’re a procurement leader in the UK, you’re very welcome to explore working with Donna here: https://www.narrateyourcareer.com/book-a-call About Laura Sellers Laura Sellers is an Executive and Leadership Coach, specialising in coaching for procurement professionals. She supports individuals and teams to strengthen self-awareness, develop leadership capability and lead with greater impact, influence and confidence. Laura also leads an ILM-accredited coaching centre, supporting procurement professionals to gain recognised coaching qualifications and develop practical coaching skills within their roles. If you’d like to explore developing your coaching and leadership skills through an ILM-accredited programme, you can connect with Laura to find out more. https://www.coachingforprocurement.co.uk/contact-me
Send us Fan Mail Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Self-Awareness How you see yourself isn’t always how others experience you. And that gap can have a significant impact on your procurement career, career progression and leadership development. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore the role self-awareness plays in procurement leadership and why it is such a critical, but often overlooked, capability. We discuss: What self-awareness really means in a procurement leadership context Why there is often a gap between intent and perception How others may experience your communication, behaviour and leadership style The impact of low self-awareness on relationships, visibility and progression Why feedback is essential, but often avoided How self-awareness shapes your leadership presence and credibility The role it plays in managing stakeholders and teams effectively Why it becomes even more important as you progress into more senior roles How small shifts in awareness can have a meaningful impact on how you lead This episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around visibility, positioning and progression in procurement careers. Because how you show up matters. And how others experience you matters even more. Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com
Send us Fan Mail Your relationship with your boss is one of the most important factors in your procurement career, career progression and leadership development. And yet, it’s often not given the attention it deserves. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore why this relationship has such a significant impact on your experience, progression and long-term career decisions. We discuss: Why this relationship can influence whether you stay or leave a role Why most relationships aren’t broken, but still aren’t working well enough The importance of taking time to reflect on what you need How clarity and alignment shape a strong working relationship Why communication style is often the root of the challenge The role your boss plays in advocating for you internally Why you need to take ownership of building and shaping the relationship The importance of understanding the pressures your boss is under Why knowing your non-negotiables matters How building a wider support network can strengthen your position This episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around visibility, positioning and progression in procurement careers. Because doing a great job isn’t always enough. The relationship around you matters more than you might think. Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots
Send us Fan Mail If you’re introverted in your procurement career, you might feel the pressure to be more visible, speak up more or show more confidence in meetings or whilst networking. And that doesn’t always feel natural. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore what it really means to be introverted in procurement and how you can still have impact, visibility and influence without changing who you are. We discuss: What introversion actually means and why it is often misunderstood Why many procurement professionals identify with introverted preferences The pressure to “speak up more” and how that shows up in procurement environments How to prepare for meetings in a way that plays to your strengths Practical ways to contribute in meetings without needing all the answers How asking questions and making observations can increase your influence How to be visible and credible without being the loudest voice This episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around visibility, positioning and influence in procurement careers. Because some of the most effective procurement professionals we see are introverted. Not despite it, but because of it. This is your last chance to sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 Sign up here: https://procurementpivots.com/home-page Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com
Send us Fan Mail Burnout in procurement is becoming more common. And it’s not always for the reasons we think. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore why burnout is showing up more across procurement careers and what is really driving it. We discuss: Why burnout in procurement is increasing as the role continues to evolve The pressure to constantly prove value and why this adds to the challenge Why burnout is not just about long hours or workload How misalignment and the wrong environment can lead to burnout over time The impact of isolation, particularly at more senior levels Early warning signs including decision fatigue, withdrawal and changes in behaviour How burnout affects confidence, relationships and decision making What to look out for in your team as a leader Why high performers can often be most at risk The importance of recognising the signs early and taking action This episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored across the podcast around pressure, expectations and progression in procurement careers. Because burnout doesn’t always come from doing too much. It often comes from carrying too much for too long. Sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 Sign Up here: procurementpivots.com/home-page Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear from you. You can message us directly or connect via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.
Send us Fan Mail Internal progression in procurement doesn’t happen by default. You can be delivering, experienced and performing well in your role, and still find that the next opportunity doesn’t come. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we focus on internal positioning and why it is the missing link to progression in senior procurement careers. We explore what it really means to be seen as ready for the next level and how your day-to-day actions shape how others perceive your capability, potential and leadership. We discuss: Why internal progression is driven by perception, not just performance How your communication, consistency and contribution shape your positioning Why you need to be seen operating at the next level before you are promoted The importance of visibility with the right people, not just more visibility How internal opportunities are often created before they are advertised The role of relationships, sponsorship and advocacy in progression Why curiosity and cross-functional exposure can open new doors How to have the right conversations about your future without signalling that you want to leave What it means to be opportunity ready and why it matters This episode builds on our previous conversation around performance versus progression and brings it into a practical, internal context. Because progression doesn’t happen when a role appears. It happens when you are already seen as the obvious choice. Sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear from you. You can message us directly or connect via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.
Send us Fan Mail We’ve reached our 50th episode of Procurement Pivots, and rather than looking back, we wanted to focus on what we’re consistently seeing across the procurement profession right now. There is a gap. A gap between performance and progression. We are working with capable, experienced procurement professionals who are doing a good job, delivering results and adding value. And yet, for many, that isn’t translating into the visibility, recognition or opportunities they expected. In this episode, we explore why that gap exists and what it really means for your career. We discuss: Why doing a good job is no longer enough in today’s procurement landscape The disconnect between what procurement delivers and how it is perceived Why capability is rarely the issue, even when confidence starts to dip The difference between knowing your value and showing it consistently How changes in ways of working are impacting visibility and progression Why progression now requires a shift in how you think, communicate and show up This episode brings together many of the themes we’ve explored across the podcast and connects them into one overarching insight: Progression is no longer a natural by-product of performance. It requires intention. Sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 If you’ve been listening, reflecting, and thinking about what comes next, this is your opportunity to take action. You’ll find the link to join us in the show notes. Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear from you. You can message us directly or connect via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.
Send us Fan Mail In procurement careers, your ability to give feedback to teams and stakeholders directly impacts performance, influence and progression. Yet it’s one of the most avoided leadership skills. Whether it’s not wanting to upset someone, not knowing how to say it, or simply not making the time, many procurement leaders hold back from delivering the feedback their teams and stakeholders actually need. And when that happens, performance stalls, expectations become unclear, and frustration builds across procurement teams and stakeholder relationships. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore how to give feedback as a procurement leader in a way that is clear, constructive and genuinely impactful. Because feedback done well doesn’t just improve performance. It strengthens procurement careers, builds confidence, and improves how you influence and work with stakeholders. In this episode we explore Why giving feedback is often avoided in procurement leadership And the impact this has on teams and stakeholder relationships Why feedback must be intentional, not reactive Moving from ad hoc conversations to a consistent leadership approach The risks of vague or unclear feedback Why general comments don’t help people or stakeholders improve How to give feedback that actually lands Being specific, relevant and focused on impact Why feedback needs to flow in all directions Across teams, stakeholders and senior leadership The role of feedback in building high-performing procurement teams Creating clarity, ownership and accountability How poorly delivered feedback can have lasting effects On confidence, performance and perception Practical frameworks to improve your feedback conversations Including Radical Candor and the SBI (Situation, Behaviour, Impact) model Takeaways A clearer understanding of how to give feedback effectively in procurement careers Practical ways to make feedback more specific, constructive and impactful A reminder that avoiding feedback creates confusion across teams and stakeholders Encouragement to make feedback a consistent part of your procurement leadership approach Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Are you giving the feedback your team and stakeholders actually need… or avoiding it?
Send us Fan Mail Do you actually know where you stand in your procurement career? Or are you making assumptions? At senior level, feedback often becomes limited, filtered or disappears altogether. And yet, this is exactly the point in your career where clarity matters most. Without it, you risk making decisions based on perception rather than reality. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore what we’re calling the Feedback Gap - the space between how you think you’re performing and how you’re actually perceived. Because if you don’t have that clarity, it’s very difficult to move forward with confidence. In this episode we explore Why feedback reduces as you become more senior (and why this creates risk, not reassurance) The gap between perception and reality How assumptions quietly shape your career decisions Why many procurement professionals feel undervalued (and how lack of feedback contributes to that) The risks of operating without clear feedback Blind spots, misalignment and missed opportunities Why waiting for feedback doesn’t work at senior level and what to do instead How to ask for more meaningful, targeted feedback Moving beyond vague questions to get real insight The importance of seeking different perspectives Not just feedback from those who already rate you highly How to use feedback to strengthen your positioning Building credibility, visibility and confidence Takeaways A clearer understanding of the Feedback Gap and why it exists Practical insight into how to create your own feedback loops A reminder that assumptions can quietly hold your career back Encouragement to seek clarity before making career decisions Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Do you actually know where you stand… or are you assuming? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail “Underperforming team.” It’s a label that gets used quickly in procurement. But what if it’s not the full picture? In today’s market, procurement teams are under more pressure than ever. Expectations are rising. Resources are stretched. Change is constant. And what looks like underperformance is often something else entirely. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore what’s really going on behind so-called “underperforming” procurement teams, and what leaders need to focus on to turn things around. Because this isn’t always about capability. It’s about context, clarity and leadership. In this episode we explore Why “underperformance” is often misdiagnosed Looking beyond the label to understand what’s really happening The role of environment, pressure and unrealistic expectations Why teams may be stretched rather than struggling The importance of trust and psychological safety How breakdowns in trust impact performance and engagement Why morale matters more than many leaders realise The impact of constant change, restructures and shifting expectations The role of leadership in creating clarity and direction Why repetition, consistency and visibility are essential How to rebuild performance as a team, not just as a leader Creating shared ownership, not top-down instruction The power of small wins in rebuilding confidence and momentum Shifting mindset through progress and recognition Why the narrative you create shapes the team you become Moving away from labels and towards a new identity Takeaways A clearer understanding of what sits behind “underperformance” in procurement teams Practical insight into how leaders can diagnose and respond more effectively A reminder that performance issues are often rooted in environment, not individuals Encouragement to lead with clarity, visibility and trust to rebuild momentum Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Are you seeing underperformance… or something else? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail “Tell me about yourself.” It sounds simple. But in reality, it’s one of the most important and most underutilised questions in your procurement career. It shows up everywhere: Interviews. Stakeholder meetings. Networking conversations. New projects. And how you answer it shapes how people see you. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore why this question carries so much weight, and how procurement professionals can use it more intentionally to build confidence, credibility and influence. Because this isn’t about walking through your CV. It’s about positioning. In this episode we explore: Why this question matters more than most people realise How your answer shapes perception, credibility and opportunity The common mistakes procurement professionals make Chronological answers that miss the opportunity to position your value Why this isn’t about selling yourself The difference between self-promotion and helping others understand your impact How to structure a strong and confident answer Present positioning, what you’re known for and why it matters Why relevance is everything Tailoring your message for interviews, stakeholders and networking How this question can set the tone in interviews One of the few moments where you control the direction of the conversation Why your professional identity goes beyond your job title Especially important when you’re between roles or navigating change How to evolve your message as your career develops Keeping your positioning aligned to where you’re going next Takeaways A clearer understanding of why this is one of the most important questions in your procurement career A practical structure to answer it with confidence and clarity A reminder that if people don’t understand your value, they won’t recognise it Encouragement to be intentional with how you position yourself in every interaction Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots How are you currently answering “Tell me about yourself”? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail Procurement career growth often feels uncomfortable. As procurement careers evolve, many professionals are being asked to step into greater visibility, leadership and influence. You may want more impact, more progression or a more aligned role. But stepping outside your comfort zone, whether that’s speaking up in meetings, building your presence on LinkedIn or developing leadership confidence, can feel unfamiliar and uncertain. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore why discomfort is a natural and necessary part of career growth, and how to navigate it with more clarity and intention. Because staying where it feels comfortable may feel safe, but it often leads to stalled procurement career progression. In this episode we explore: Why procurement career growth feels uncomfortable The gap between where you are today and where you want to get to How the comfort zone can quietly hold you back Why staying where things feel safe can limit progression, visibility and career development The three zones of growth: comfort, stretch and panic Understanding where confidence is built and where it can be lost Why many procurement professionals overwhelm themselves before they start Jumping straight to the end goal rather than breaking it down into manageable steps How to take practical, incremental steps forward Building confidence and leadership presence through action, not overthinking Rethinking visibility and influence in procurement Why you don’t need to be the loudest voice to have impact with stakeholders Applying this to real scenarios From speaking up in meetings to using LinkedIn more intentionally without needing to post Why clarity reduces fear Separating what is genuinely challenging from what feels overwhelming Takeaways A clearer understanding of why discomfort is part of procurement career growth A practical framework to help you step outside your comfort zone with more confidence A reminder that consistent stretch drives career progression, not big leaps Encouragement to stop waiting for confidence and start building it through action Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots What is currently sitting just outside your comfort zone in your procurement career? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail Procurement careers are evolving at pace. The remit is expanding. Expectations are rising. Pressure is increasing. Yet in many organisations, learning and development support has reduced, shifted or become less personalised. Some procurement professionals receive strong internal investment. Others receive very little. Even within the same organisation, the level of development can vary significantly. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore what we are calling the Procurement Development Gap. This is the space between where your career is heading and the skills, capability and confidence you are intentionally building. Career acceleration rarely happens by accident. It happens through clarity, ownership and aligned investment. In this episode we explore: Why the L&D landscape has shifted in procurement > How reduced or inconsistent development support is impacting procurement careers What the Procurement Development Gap really looks like > The difference between evolving role expectations and personal capability building How to carry out a meaningful gap analysis > Identifying where you are now, where you want to go and what may be holding you back Why progression is often about leadership presence, influence and impact > Not just technical or category expertise Avoiding overwhelm in an age of information overload > How to prioritise what will genuinely move the needle The ROI of investing in your own professional development > Considering time, energy and financial investment with intention How to build a business case for support > Why development conversations can form part of annual reviews, salary discussions and retention strategies The power of accountability and aligned support > From coaching and mentoring to peer conversations and targeted learning Takeaways A clearer understanding of the Procurement Development Gap Practical guidance on prioritising procurement professional development with intention Encouragement to move from passive provision to proactive ownership A reminder that investing in yourself is strategic Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots What development gap are you currently closing in your procurement career? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail Communication sits at the heart of every procurement career. You can be technically strong, commercially capable and consistently deliver results. But if your communication does not land, your influence, credibility and progression can stall. In this episode, Donna and Laura explore why communication is one of the most powerful differentiators in procurement today. They discuss how self-awareness shapes the way you show up, why your style must evolve as your stakeholder audience becomes more senior, and how subtle shifts in tone, pace and language can significantly elevate how you are perceived. They also explore how AI and remote working are diluting personal voice, why many procurement professionals feel unheard or undervalued, and how influence is built through clarity rather than volume. If you want to operate more strategically, strengthen your presence and gain influence without compromising who you are, this conversation is for you. In this episode we explore Why communication underpins influence in procurement How your ability to translate procurement value into business language shapes how seriously you are taken. Understanding your natural communication style Why self-awareness is the foundation for confidence, adaptability and stronger stakeholder relationships. Tactical versus strategic communication How tone, clarity and delivery must evolve as your stakeholder audience becomes more senior. Confidence, perception and personal brand How posture, word choice and presence influence how others interpret your capability. The risk of diluted voice How AI-generated content and remote working can weaken your impact if you are not intentional. Influence without politics How to navigate communication dynamics while maintaining integrity and authenticity. Takeaways A clearer understanding of how communication shapes procurement career progression. Practical reflection points to help you identify where your current style is working and where small shifts could elevate your impact. Encouragement to communicate for the level you want to operate at, not just the role you currently hold. A reminder that influence is built through clarity, confidence and intentionality. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Want to shape what comes next or suggest a topic? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail For many procurement professionals, the word networking triggers discomfort. Awkward. Inauthentic. Contrived. Embarrassing. And yet, relationship-driven opportunities remain one of the most powerful drivers of procurement career progression. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura unpack why networking has become so emotionally loaded in procurement careers, and why avoiding it may be quietly limiting your opportunities. They explore the mindset barriers, the assumptions and the cultural narratives that make networking feel uncomfortable. More importantly, they reframe networking for what it truly is: building meaningful professional relationships. Because procurement careers are not built through applications alone. They are built through trust, visibility and connection. In this episode we explore Why the word networking carries so much emotional weight in procurement How negative associations can create avoidance and self-doubt. The reality of how procurement roles are secured Why the majority of opportunities come through relationships, not job boards. Reframing networking as relationship building How shifting language changes behaviour and confidence. Different ways to network that align with your personality From one-to-one conversations to planned event meetings and virtual connections. The pressure of networking when job seeking Why urgency makes networking feel harder and how to approach it differently. The importance of preparation and follow-up How the real relationship often begins after the initial conversation. Building your network before you need it Why proactive relationship building creates long-term career leverage. Takeaways A reframed understanding of networking in procurement careers. Practical ways to approach external relationship building with greater confidence and intention. Encouragement to shift from transactional thinking to genuine connection. A reminder that sometimes one conversation can change everything. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Want to share your experience of networking in procurement? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail In today’s procurement career market, visibility is no longer optional. Yet many procurement professionals remain hesitant, quiet or completely invisible on LinkedIn. This episode tackles the uncomfortable but important question. What is your LinkedIn presence quietly costing your procurement career? In a market shaped by restructuring, increased competition and fewer internal opportunities, LinkedIn has become a powerful career lever. Not just for job searching, but for positioning, credibility, discoverability and influence. And yet procurement as a profession is still significantly underrepresented compared to other corporate functions. In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore the visibility gap in procurement careers. They unpack the fears that hold professionals back, the myths around posting and self-promotion, and the real opportunity cost of staying silent. This is not about becoming louder. It is about becoming intentional. In this episode we explore The fear versus reality of LinkedIn visibility Why worries about judgement, ego and self-promotion are often stronger than the actual risk. Why posting is not step one The overlooked foundations of LinkedIn that create career leverage without constant content creation. LinkedIn as a search engine for procurement careers How profile optimisation impacts recruiter searches, internal mobility and external opportunity. Visibility versus ego Why showing your value is not arrogance, but education. Procurement’s visibility gap Why procurement professionals are behind other corporate functions and why that creates a differentiation opportunity. Comfort zone, stretch and growth How to build visibility in manageable steps rather than jumping into fear. The hidden cost of staying invisible How silence limits optionality, credibility and career control. Takeaways A clearer understanding of how LinkedIn impacts procurement career progression, even when you are not actively job seeking. Practical reflections to help you define your next intentional step on LinkedIn. A reframed view of visibility as a strategic career asset rather than a self-promotion exercise. Encouragement to shift from focusing on what could go wrong to what could go right.
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore a topic that often feels uncomfortable but quietly shapes careers more than performance alone: internal networking. Many procurement professionals associate networking with politics, self-promotion or big events. But internal leverage is not about being the loudest in the room. It is about building genuine, consistent relationships that create influence, sponsorship and long-term career optionality. Donna and Laura unpack why internal networking feels emotive, how fear of perception holds professionals back, and why clarity of purpose changes everything. They discuss how procurement’s unique cross-functional position creates powerful opportunity, and how relationships built beyond projects can open doors you did not even know existed. This conversation reframes internal networking from something awkward or transactional into something strategic, intentional and career-defining. In this episode we explore: Why internal networking feels uncomfortable How fear of judgement and misconceptions about personality types stop capable professionals from building influence. Purpose before action The importance of knowing whether you are building relationships to perform better, increase visibility or position yourself for future opportunities. Starting with what you already have How to leverage existing strengths, stakeholder maps and past relationship success to build confidence. Moving beyond project-based relationships Why the strongest careers are built on connections that continue after the work ends. Procurement’s unique cross-functional advantage How the touchpoints across the organisation create opportunities for influence, sponsorship and even career pivots. Consistency over intensity Why showing up steadily and genuinely builds more leverage than transactional networking. Takeaways A reframed view of internal networking as strategic career leverage rather than self-promotion. Practical reflection points to identify where your internal relationships are strong and where opportunity exists. Encouragement to build influence before you need it, rather than waiting for a restructure, promotion or crossroads moment. A reminder that internal sponsorship and opportunity rarely happen by accident. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Want to ask a question or share a topic you would like us to cover? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly.
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we unpack one of the most talked-about transitions in the profession: the move from operational to strategic procurement. We hear it everywhere. Procurement must become more strategic. Roles are evolving. Expectations are rising. But what does that shift actually mean in practice? And why does it feel harder than it sounds? In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore the realities behind the operational to strategic transition. They discuss why the word “strategic” is often misunderstood, how misalignment creates frustration, and why many procurement professionals feel stuck between firefighting and future thinking. This episode shines a light on the behavioural, relational and mindset shifts required to move beyond operational delivery and into strategic influence. In this episode we explore: Defining what “strategic” really means Why the word is frequently used but rarely clarified, and how misalignment creates career friction. Context matters How operational and strategic procurement look different depending on sector, organisation and leadership appetite. The gap analysis Understanding whether the real gap is skills, relationships, visibility, confidence or support. Stop waiting for permission Why strategic influence often begins before the title changes. Visibility and communication The risk of internalising ambition and assuming others know what you want. Strategic does not mean political Why influence is not manipulation and how values-led leadership still drives results. The role of relationships How stakeholder trust and advocacy accelerate strategic progression. Takeaways Clarity on what strategic procurement means in your current environment. A practical framework to assess the gap between where you are and where you want to be. Encouragement to take ownership of small, intentional shifts rather than waiting for a promotion.A reminder that strategic behaviour often precedes strategic titles. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Want to ask a question or share a topic you would like us to cover? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page or reach out to Donna or Laura directly. #Procurement #ProcurementCareer #CareerDevelopment #Leadership #ProcurementProfessionals #ProcurementLeadership
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