“Imagine a gender equal world. A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination. A world that’s diverse, equitable, and inclusive. A world where difference is valued and celebrated. Together we can forge women’s equality. Collectively we can all #EmbraceEquity”
This week we celebrated International Women’s Day, where we recognised via our social media all the amazing women who have had such a positive impact and helped shape the world we live in, with a special mention to the talented women in the Talent Drive team – Honor Barker, Wiktoria Wlodarczyk and Beth Adams, who do such an amazing job every day.
This got us to thinking about all the inspiring women we have met over the years on our Talent Talks podcast, who are demonstrating how procurement is continuing to champion diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We asked our Founder Martin to look back over three episodes that really stood out to him – we hope you enjoy them as much as we did!
EPISODE 69 – Tracey Williamson
There’s no substitute for the level of depth and breadth of experience that Tracey Williamson has developed over the course of her illustrious career as a procurement leader.
From roles in several major blue chip organisations like Nissan, Tesco, Vodafone and many more, she’s cracked the key to creating transformative change in any procurement function.
We took a dive into her focus on good data, the conscious effort to diversify skills and sectors, and how diversity and inclusion has evolved throughout her time in the industry.
Listen to the full episode .
EPISODE 68 – Victoria Cope
Victoria Cope’s career roles are supremely varied and her credentials numerous, so she serves as a perfect example of how wide ranging experiences can aid procurement leaders in succeeding at the highest level.
With an Aeronautical Engineering background, over 20 years in Defence & Security, and several awards for her contributions, she’s now Commercial & Category Director for the UK Health Security Agency.
Such an array of knowledge inevitably led to a fascinating discussion, covering the delicate balance between public service & commerciality, necessary steps to boost diversity, why strong relationships beat procurement on paper, and so much more.
Listen to the full episode .
EPISODE 68 – Claire Willis
To see a greater representation for females at director level roles, we need to support women in procurement to seize the opportunities that they deserve.
Speaking to the differing mindset between male and female counterparts, Dentsu International’s Procurement Director, Claire Willis, vouched for the encouragement that could help level the playing field in our industry.
We also heard how seeking soft skills over category experience can help break bad habits, deconstruct the taboo over maternity and paternity in business, and the increasing focus on procurement’s power as a force for good.
Listen to the full episode .
Our Talent Talks Podcast provides regular insights and guidance to procurement and supply chain professionals, as Martin interviews Procurement leaders from across the globe as well as thought-leaders and authors from the sector. If you’d like to catch up on any episodes you’ve missed, click HERE!
