Summary
In this episode, Martin Smith interviews James Ball, Associate Director at Infosys Portland.
James discusses the differences between working in industry and working in consultancy in the procurement field.
James shares his insights based on his 25 years of experience in procurement, with 15 years in industry and the last 10 years in consultancy.
He discusses the differences in thought processes, responsibilities and timeframes between the two roles, and explores the concept of adaptive procurement transformation and the evolving role of procurement in organisations.
Takeaways
-
-
- Working in industry and working in consultancy in procurement have significant differences in thought processes, responsibilities and timeframes.
- In industry, procurement professionals focus on long-term strategies, team well-being, stakeholder engagement, policies, processes and category plans. In consultancy, they focus on project-based work, specific work streams, and achieving outcomes for clients.
- Procurement is evolving to become its own profit centre, with a focus on adding value to the business and digitalisation.
- The skills required for modern-day procurement professionals include adaptability, business partnering, technology proficiency and a learning mindset.
- Being proud of the profession and the journey of development in procurement is rewarding and fulfilling. Procurement is a crucial function that impacts the success of a business in various ways.
- Consultancy in procurement has experienced double-digit growth and continues to be in demand, with organisations using consultancies for transformation projects and as a flexible resource.
-
Chapters
02:01 – The Value Proposition of Procurement
01:25 – The Differences Between Working in Industry and Consultancy in Procurement
11:46 – Adaptive Procurement Transformation: Making Procurement Relevant
16:36 – The Evolving Role of Procurement in Organisations
32:01 – The Growth and Demand for Consultancy in Procurement
