In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, James Meads is joined by Gaurav Sharma, Head of Procurement Centre of Excellence at MTN, with a background that uniquely combines procurement expertise and data science.

We explore how Gaurav’s journey from category manager to leading digital transformation has shaped his view on procurement technology, user adoption, and the need for more practical, cost-effective solutions. Alongside his corporate role, he introduces his side project, SuperNegotiate, designed to simplify sourcing processes and enable tool-less digitisation for procurement newcomers.

Is Procuretech Overpriced and Overhyped?

Gaurav shares why many e-sourcing tools fall short of addressing real category manager needs, focusing instead on vanity features. He explains how AI and machine learning are already transforming sourcing, paving the way for outcome-based pricing models and moving procurement away from traditional RFPs.

Other topics covered include:

1. Why data science skills are becoming essential in procurement
2. How current tools fail to deliver true user-centric functionality
3. The growing demand for tech-savvy procurement professionals
4. Why outcome-based pricing could reshape procurement tech contracts
5. How Super Negotiate offers a lightweight entry point for digital procurement

A must-listen for anyone interested in the next generation of procurement technology and the evolving skill sets that will define future teams.

Timestamps:

[[00:00] Introduction to Gaurav Sharma and His Unique Skills

[01:14] Journey from procurement to data science

[04:34] The future of procurement skills and technology

[08:55] Critiquing procurement tech and vanity features

[13:56] In-house solutions vs. traditional procurement tools

[21:11] Super Negotiate: a new approach to sourcing

[30:11] The future roles of procurement teams

And that wraps up another episode of The Procurement Software Podcast!

Thanks again for listening, and do please leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or rate us on Spotify. Every one helps!

We'll be back at the same time next month, so see you there.

If you want to learn more about Procurement Software, check out the useful links below.

Stay in touch!

1. Connect with Gaurav Sharma on LinkedIn
2. Check out Supernegotiate
3. Download our Tech Map for Enterprise
4. Download our Tech Map for Mid-Market
5. Download our Tech Map for SMEs
6. Find your perfect procurement tech solution in our Software Finder app
7. Sign up for the Procurement Software Newsletter
8. Book an Intro Call and let’s talk all things Digital Procurement!
9. Connect with James on LinkedIn