Powering Procurement

Powering Procurement

By AtamisBusinessManagement
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Powering Procurement episodes

  • From Rolling Stock to Global Impact: Sam Pickford on Procurement’s Reach

    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.

    35 min
  • From Foreign Office to FCA - Dominic Hastings on Procurement Leadership

    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.

    35 min
  • How Procurement Can Deliver Social and Environmental Value, with Harinder Bansal

    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.

    39 min
  • How Admiral Transformed Procurement Into a Strategic Powerhouse with Chris McLellan
    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
    47 min
  • The 4 Ps That Will Future-Proof Your Procurement with Milind Tailor
    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
    44 min
  • The Truth About Supplier Relationships in Procurement with Sabrina Kelly
    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
    33 min
  • Building Net Zero Supply Chains with Collaboration: Insights from Oliver Hurrey
    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
    50 min
  • Why Procurement Deserves a Seat at the Strategic Table with Nadia Stoykov
    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
    52 min
  • How Procurement Can Save a Bankrupt City with John Coyne
    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
    42 min
  • AI, Diversity, and Strategies for Procurement Recruitment with Procurement Heads’ Amy Anslow
    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
    42 min

About Powering Procurement

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to Powering Procurement, a podcast by Atamis, where we delve into the rapidly evolving world of procurement.