In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, Raphael, co-founder and CEO of Growin.Co interviews your usual host, James Meads, alongside Linkana co-founder Leo Cavalcanti. It's a lively and forward-looking discussion about the next wave of digital transformation in procurement.

They explore how AI, agentic automation, and no-code tools are disrupting traditional approaches—especially for mid-market businesses looking to leapfrog outdated ERP systems and legacy S2P suites.

The conversation dives into how AI is already being used in supplier onboarding, document validation, and spend analytics. James and Leo also reflect on whether SaaS UIs will soon be replaced by agent-driven interfaces—and the strategic decisions procurement tech founders must now make.

Other topics covered include:

1. Why mid-sized firms are well-placed to leapfrog legacy systems
2. The rise of no-code tools and what they mean for small teams
3. Moving from structured to unstructured data with AI
4. The challenge of understanding real customer problems
5. Insights into the emerging Latin American procurement tech scene

A must-listen for procurement professionals, founders, and anyone curious about the future of digital procurement.

[00:35] Guest introductions: James Meads & Leo Cavalcanti

[03:15] Why procurement needs better tech—and where mid-market firms fit in

[07:42] How AI is changing supplier onboarding and document validation

[11:20] The rise of no-code tools and what they mean for smaller businesses

[16:05] Is the SaaS UI dead? Enter: agentic automation

[20:51] Why defining the problem is more important than choosing the solution

[26:34] Common buyer mistakes when scoping procurement tech

[30:12] Challenges and opportunities in the LatAm procurement tech ecosystem

[34:45] Advice for founders building in procurement today

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.

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

In this episode of the Procurement Software Podcast, host James discusses the critical topic of cybersecurity in procurement with expert Jano Bermudes from CyXcel.

They explore the importance of cybersecurity in vendor selection, the regulatory landscape, and the necessary precautions organisations must take to protect their data.

The conversation covers security questions procurement professionals should ask when evaluating software vendors, the importance of security certifications like ISO 27001 and SOC 2, and how companies—big and small—can mitigate cyber risks in their supply chains.

Jano shares insights into regulatory requirements such as GDPR and DORA, the complexities of supplier compliance, and the critical contract clauses buyers should insist on to protect their businesses.

Other topics covered include:

1. How small businesses can enhance their cybersecurity approach
2. Common pitfalls in cloud software security assurances
3. Why due diligence and ongoing monitoring are essential
4. Negotiating limitation of liability clauses in contracts

[00:48] Guest introduction: Jano Bermudes

[02:02] Key cybersecurity questions

[07:53] Important regulations & compliance

[11:44] Cloud security misconceptions

[14:29] Security certifications explained

[19:25] Due diligence importance

[24:16] Essential contract clauses

[30:00] Negotiating liability limits

[34:56] Where to learn more

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.

1. Connect with Jano Bermudes on LinkedIn
2. Check out CyXcel
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

Welcome back to The Procurement Software Podcast! We’re kicking off Series 6 with a shift to a monthly format and an emphasis on more guest episodes.

This week, host James Meads welcomes back Sheldon Mydat, founder and CEO of Suppeco, marking his third appearance on the show. Together, they dive deep into the transformative potential of generative AI in SRM and how it’s revolutionising the way procurement professionals handle unstructured and qualitative, rather than quantitative data.

This episode unpacks the evolution of SRM from spreadsheets and KPI dashboards into a dynamic, relationship-driven process that prioritises operational excellence, resilience, and narrative over mere numbers. If you’ve been curious about AI’s real-world applications in procurement, this conversation is a must-listen.

Suppeco is on a mission to redefine SRM by introducing a digital relationship layer that integrates operational data from diverse sources such as emails, chats, and project documentation. This approach focuses on the qualitative aspects of supplier relationships, fostering collaboration and mitigating risks. Sheldon explains how SRM has evolved from being KPI-heavy to prioritising relationship-driven resilience, a shift accelerated by the pandemic. With the SRM market projected to hit $8 billion by 2030, the importance of this transformation is evident.

Generative AI is particularly suited for analysing unstructured data, which makes up a significant portion of operational information. Suppeco’s AI capabilities dynamically identify risks, measure cultural fit, and optimise supplier relationships, providing actionable insights and creating contextualised RFPs. By offering a scaled-down SME version, Suppeco ensures that even smaller organisations can leverage advanced SRM features, making it accessible and impactful across different business sizes.

Addressing data privacy concerns, Sheldon highlights Suppeco’s multi-tenancy system, which keeps customer data securely isolated and ensures that models are never trained on proprietary information. This robust approach underscores their commitment to confidentiality and compliance, ensuring that businesses can adopt this technology confidently.

[00:01:00] Introduction to Series 6 and guest Sheldon Mydat.

[00:03:12] Sheldon’s approach to investing $50,000 in procurement tech.

[00:09:27] The evolution of SRM and Suppeco’s role.

[00:14:50] Managing unstructured data in SRM.

[00:22:31] Use cases for generative AI in SRM.

[00:29:34] Addressing data privacy concerns.

[00:35:05] Integrating external data sources into SRM platforms.

[00:37:24] Democratising SRM for SMEs.

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.

1. Connect with Sheldon Mydat on LinkedIn
2. Check out Suppeco
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

In this special Christmas episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, we celebrate the end of 2024 with a roundup of the latest developments in the procurement technology space.

James shares insights on the evolution of the industry and presents predictions for 2025 in the "state of procuretech address."

Whether you're enjoying a festive meal or relaxing during the holiday season, this episode aims to educate and inspire professionals about the exciting changes shaping the procurement landscape.

This week, James announces a change for The Procurement Software Podcast coming in 2025. We're shifting from weekly podcast episodes to a dynamic weekly newsletter, which will also house a couple of subscriber-only podcasts.

Plus, we're keeping The Procurement Software Podcast too with monthly, open access episodes.

A key focus of the newsletter will be audience segmentation.

Procurement practitioners and tech professionals have distinct needs, and this tailored approach ensures we put out content that resonates with both groups individually.

Expect insights that are specific, actionable, and engaging.

While podcast episodes will become monthly, the emphasis will shift to producing high-quality, in-depth discussions on key topics. This ensures every release is impactful and well-researched.

Finally, audience feedback will play a central role in shaping this new chapter. By aligning with listener preferences, the podcast evolves into an even more valuable resource for its community.

Stay tuned as Procurement Software Podcast embraces this exciting new direction!

[00:02:03] Weekly newsletter transition announcement.

[00:08:59] Procurement tech warning signs.

[00:12:51] Agentic AI in procurement tech.

[00:17:27] B2B marketplaces' future relevance.

[00:21:06] AI's impact on procurement roles.

[00:26:58] AI in document analysis.

[00:31:20] Build versus buy debate.

[00:33:30] Software buying versus building.

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 week, so see you there.

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

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

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads welcomes Gregory Vider, co-founder and CEO of Apadua, to discuss their recent Indirect Procurement Days invite-only mini conference held near Frankfurt, Germany.

Their conversation delves into the benefits of networking in a more intimate setting compared to larger conferences.

Tune in to explore how these innovative events could shape the future of marketing in the procurement space.

This week, Gregory explores the rise of micro events and their unique role in transforming procurement marketing. These intimate gatherings offer a fresh alternative to traditional conferences, prioritising personal connections and meaningful engagement.

Gregory highlights how micro events, like Apadua’s recent gathering at the Villa Rothschild in Königstein, create a relaxed atmosphere for attendees to connect. Through informal settings—such as a “kitchen party” with tapas and self-serve drinks—participants can engage in deeper conversations and build lasting relationships.

A key insight is the focus on community-building. By bringing together satisfied clients and potential customers, Apadua fosters authentic interactions that extend beyond the event itself. Gregory explains how this approach strengthens emotional connections with the brand, laying the groundwork for trust and loyalty.

Another advantage? Micro events offer cost-effective solutions while giving organisers complete control over the attendee experience. This enables companies to align the event’s structure with their values and goals, ensuring a more targeted and impactful outcome.

By reimagining networking through micro events, Gregory demonstrates how companies can create memorable experiences, nurture relationships, and drive long-term value in today’s dynamic procurement landscape.

[00:03:07] Productivity and collaboration platform.

[00:04:11] Procurement and stakeholder collaboration.

[00:11:41] Kitchen party event concept.

[00:12:11] Unconventional event networking experience.

[00:17:06] Emotional attachment to software.

[00:21:30] ROI from conference participation.

[00:25:49] Community building through events.

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 week, so see you there.

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

1. Connect with Gregory Vider on LinkedIn
2. Check out Apadua
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

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads welcomes Richard Brown from Anvil Analytical to discuss the transformative power of spend analytics in procurement.

The conversation explores the evolution of spend analytics technology, highlighting the advancements from previous years and discussing practical applications that can help organisations operate faster, better, and smarter.

Tune in to learn how these developments are reshaping the procurement profession and the tools available to help organisations embrace change.

This week, Richard sheds light on the growing importance of spend analytics tools, particularly when integrated with consultancy services. This winning combo can optimise procurement strategies across every industry. He highlights how this combination delivers both immediate insights and ongoing value, meeting the evolving demands of procurement professionals.

Richard emphasises the critical role of visibility in spending patterns, enabling organisations to identify cost-saving opportunities, negotiate better supplier terms, and make informed decisions. He explains how tools equipped with advanced AI and large language models (LLMs) revolutionise data handling—turning unstructured data, like invoices in multiple languages, into actionable insights.

A key insight is the shift from traditional consultancy to integrated solutions. With tools such as Anvil that extend beyond short-term projects, it's helped their parent company 4C to now offer long-term partnerships, fostering trust and collaboration over a longer period.

Richard also explores Anvil’s approach to democratising analytics for SMEs, providing cost-effective solutions that meet their unique needs while building sustainable client relationships. This adaptability empowers smaller organisations to unlock the benefits of advanced spend analytics, but without overwhelming their existing processes.

By integrating cutting-edge technology with tailored consultancy services, Richard demonstrates how spend analytics can drive immediate value and establish a foundation for long-term success in the dynamic procurement landscape.

[00:01:10] Spend analytics in procurement.

[00:05:22] Customer demographics in procurement services.

[00:09:44] Accelerated sector entry with LLMs.

[00:10:36] Unstructured data processing solutions.

[00:15:08] Revenue stability through technology.

[00:20:00] SME analytics pricing model.

[00:22:23] Customer acquisition through procurement tech.

[00:24:25] Carbon accuracy pyramid challenges.

[00:29:50] Long-term carbon reduction partnerships.

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 week, so see you there.

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

1. Connect with Richard Brown on LinkedIn
2. Check out Anvil Analytical
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

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads explores the critical role of A players in leading digital transformations within procurement teams.

He discusses the challenges organisations face in finding the right talent to implement digital procurement tools and emphasises the importance of having experienced and adept change managers

Tune in for insights that can help drive your organisation's success in embracing technological changes.

This week, James delve into the vital role of hiring top-tier talent—or "A players"—to drive digital transformation in procurement. These individuals bring a unique blend of skills in change management, communication, and technology, ensuring that transformation initiatives are successful and impactful.

Without the right leadership, digital projects often face resistance, poor user adoption, and a lack of strategic alignment. A players stand out by fostering smoother transitions through their ability to navigate organisational change, address user experience challenges, and manage complex stakeholder dynamics.

A key takeaway is the importance of understanding and addressing user adoption barriers. By prioritising the needs of end users, A players ensure that new digital tools are intuitive and widely embraced, avoiding common pitfalls like prioritising outdated systems due to executive preferences.

Equally critical is their role in internal communication. Beyond basic announcements, these leaders create engaging campaigns that align diverse teams, ensuring buy-in and enthusiasm for change. Their diplomatic skills are also indispensable for managing resistant stakeholders and aligning departments with broader goals.

Finally, digital transformation is a long-term commitment. Hiring A players ensures organisations not only achieve their immediate goals but also build a culture of continuous improvement, enabling procurement to remain agile and strategically aligned in a rapidly evolving landscape.

[00:01:10] A players lead digital transformations.

[00:06:27] Digital transformation in procurement.

[00:08:34] Hiring A players for roles.

[00:12:29] Autonomy in leadership roles.

[00:16:24] Gig economy and A players.

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 week, so see you there.

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

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

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads delves into a provocative topic inspired by a LinkedIn post from industry commentator Jon W. Hansen.

The post claims that 83% of AI initiatives fail and predicts that 75% of AI solution providers will be out of business by the end of 2025.

So, is this likely? Tune in as he breaks down these bold claims and offers insights into the future of procurement technology.

This week, James tackles the pressing question of whether 75% of AI solution providers will truly vanish by 2025, a claim recently made by industry commentator Jon W. Hansen.

While some market consolidation is inevitable, James argues that this figure is exaggerated. Many procurement tech companies are thriving by delivering measurable results and adapting to shifting market demands.

The discussion highlights how innovative tools are emerging to fill gaps in the market left by underperforming legacy providers. For SMEs and mid-market organisations, this shift is particularly exciting. New solutions tailored to these segments are making procurement tech more accessible and effective, addressing unique challenges often overlooked by traditional players.

Sustainability tools also take centre stage, as regulatory pressures drive demand for solutions that help organisations achieve compliance. Additionally, niche-specific platforms are gaining traction, offering tailored capabilities for industries like oil and gas, financial services, and emerging markets.

James emphasises that procurement professionals must remain open to innovation, prioritising results over software brand recognition and flagship case studies. By exploring new entrants alongside established players, organisations can uncover solutions that align with their strategic goals and set them up for long-term success.

[00:02:21] Procurement tech sustainability concerns.

[00:06:31] AI solutions for SMEs.

[00:08:11] Emerging markets in procurement tech.

[00:12:38] Legacy player risks in procurement.

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 week, so see you there.

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

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

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James welcomes Praveen Kalamegham, CTO of Workrise, to discuss the importance of industry-specific solutions in procurement technology, particularly in the oil and gas sector.

The conversation dives into how tailored tools can better meet the unique needs of different industries and enhance procurement processes.

Tune in to learn how to confidently choose and implement the right procurement tech to drive efficiency and innovation in your organisation.

Praveen emphasises the importance of tailored procurement solutions for specific industries, particularly in the energy sector, where complex supply chains and massive capital projects are the norm. He highlights how tailored tools like Workrise address unique challenges, ensuring companies avoid the pitfalls of generic solutions that fail to meet sector-specific needs.

His perspective focuses on the need for transparency and trust in procurement processes, especially in an industry often driven by handshake agreements. By connecting all aspects of procurement—from sourcing to payment—Workrise fosters real-time visibility and stronger supplier relationships, enabling energy companies to operate more effectively.

A key takeaway is Praveen’s emphasis on adaptability. Workrise is designed to integrate with existing systems, allowing organisations to enhance their current operations without overhauling established processes. This flexibility is particularly vital for companies hesitant to adopt new technologies due to fears of disruption.

Praveen advocates for building an engaged supplier network, where active collaboration ensures resources are available when needed. This proactive approach, coupled with alignment between procurement and finance functions, accelerates decision-making and enhances cost efficiency.

By tailoring its solutions to industry needs, Workrise demonstrates how procurement technology can drive immediate value while laying the foundation for long-term success in a highly dynamic sector.

[00:02:21] Assessing procurement technology needs.

[00:06:31] Niche tools for energy procurement.

[00:08:11] Complexities of CapEx projects.

[00:12:38] Cost savings in energy supply chain.

[00:17:25] Niche solutions in energy sector.

[00:20:34] Supply-side ecosystem challenges.

[00:25:30] Partnerships in the energy industry.

[00:27:16] Trust through transparency in industry.

[00:29:26] Partnership in procurement tech.

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 week, so see you there.

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

1. Connect with Praveen Kalamegham on LinkedIn
2. Check out Workrise
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

In this episode of The Procurement Software Podcast, host James Meads explores most the exciting opportunities in procurement technology, focusing on three emerging categories: spend analytics, e-sourcing, and AI-driven co-pilots, each offering unique solutions to procurement’s evolving challenges.

Tune in to learn how these innovative tools are reshaping the future of procurement, helping organisations stay competitive in an ever-evolving market.

This week James discusses how spend analytics is now a critical component for larger organisations, especially those operating multiple ERP systems. He compares navigating procurement without spend analytics to sailing a ship without a compass. New, affordable solutions leveraging AI are making these insights accessible to mid-market companies with revenues from $100 million to a few billion, allowing for better spend classification and analysis, and ultimately, more strategic decision-making.

E-sourcing tools also feature prominently, particularly for organisations looking to streamline tender processes and drive cost savings. Many companies still use outdated methods like emails and spreadsheets, but these lack the efficiency and data tracking capabilities of dedicated e-sourcing platforms. With high user adoption, these tools bring significant operational advantages by centralising supplier data and automating compliance tracking, making them a clear choice for procurement teams aiming for greater productivity.

James then introduces AI-driven co-pilots as the latest innovation to transform procurement. These tools are designed to automate repetitive tasks, such as routing purchase requests and acknowledging purchase orders, that might be too nuanced for traditional RPA solutions. The flexibility of AI co-pilots allows procurement teams to operate more strategically, focusing on high-impact projects rather than routine workflows.

Each of these technologies—spend analytics, e-sourcing, and AI-driven co-pilots—represents a leap forward for procurement teams seeking to innovate and adapt in a competitive landscape. By embracing these tools, organisations can drive efficiency, improve supplier relationships, and make more informed decisions.

[00:01:21] Categories of ProcureTech excitement.

[00:06:00] Growth in spend analytics technology.

[00:08:08] Underserved SME technology market.

[00:12:05] Tail spend management automation tools.

[00:16:15] The future of SRM technology.

[00:21:44] B2B marketplaces - do they have a future?

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 week, so see you there.

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

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