Summary
In this episode, Martin Smith speaks to Tom Hajek, an independent consultant and who has worked for a number of well known brands. They discuss the key ingredients for successful procurement transformation.
Tom emphasises the importance of aligning procurement with high-level business objectives and applying a framework of people, processes, and technology. Tom also shares his methodology for prioritising transformation efforts and delivering commercial wins.
He highlights the need for procurement to be perceived as a strategic enabler of the business and offers insights on attracting and developing procurement talent. Tom concludes by discussing the challenges faced by procurement teams and the profession as a whole.
Takeaways
-
- Align procurement with high-level business objectives to deliver successful transformation.
- Prioritise transformation efforts based on stakeholder engagement and burning issues.
- Position procurement as a strategic enabler of the business to elevate its brand.
- Attract and develop procurement talent with a focus on aptitude, commerciality, and sound judgment.
Chapters
-
-
- 00:00 Introduction and Background
- 00:55 Getting into Procurement
- 03:19 Prioritising in Procurement Transformation
- 04:46 Working in Different Industry Sectors
- 06:37 Transitioning from Permanent to Interim Roles
- 07:34 Leadership and Strategy in Procurement
- 08:33 Importance of Clear Objectives and Strategy
- 09:32 Learning from Others and Developing Leadership Style
- 10:31 Elevating Procurement from Transactional to Strategic
- 11:29 Challenges in Procurement Perception and Execution
- 12:28 Managing Tier One Suppliers and Vendor Relationships
- 13:52 Positioning Procurement as an Enabler of Business
- 15:16 Elevating the Brand of Procurement
- 16:39 Attractiveness of Procurement as a Profession
- 18:28 Skills and Qualities to Look for in Procurement Professionals
- 19:28 Challenges in Procurement Teams and Processes
- 20:27 Surprises and Perceptions in Procurement
- 23:49 Challenges in Procurement Talent Acquisition
-
