In a function such as Procurement where negotiating is a central part of the role, leverage is a critical element in those negotiations. And in many cases size translates to leverage.

How is it possible, that a function serving as one of the greatest creators of sustainability and quality management in the line, cost-based savings, and allocators of the majority of direct spend, can be devalued to solely a supporting role in the value chain?

Progressive leaders recognize the critical importance and value of integrating equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) into their business, culture and workforce, however, many organizations are missing a critical component, therefore not realizing the full potential and benefits.

Congratulations! You are implementing a new ERP system and now you’re wondering:

“Where do I begin? How can I make sure we are successful? Who should I get involved? How can I do this and still keep our business moving forward while minimizing disruption?”

For close to twenty-five years I climbed the corporate ladder and worked for some of the worlds most recognized global companies;

For close to twenty-five years I climbed the corporate ladder and worked for some of the worlds most recognized global companies;

The theory is simple! If you can increase spend levels through centralized spend aggregation across entities then you increase your leverage in negotiations. This leverage should translate to lower costs and better terms and conditions.

Suppliers are an intrinsic part of the Supply Chain. It does not matter what business you are in, what products you make, distribute and sell, or what part of the world you are in. And it doesn’t matter where in the Supply Chain you are. You can not accomplish anything without Suppliers.

At Supply Chain Game Changer we believe in sharing experiences and expertise from people in every industry and from across the globe. As such we have introduced our “Seasoned Leadership in Action” Interview series.

Economists have long noted the rise of the so-called “gig economy.” More workers are using short-term contracts and other forms of employment to provide additional income to supplement or replace permanent jobs – think Uber, AirBnB.

I’m often asked; “what is Strategic Sourcing and how is it different from Procurement and Purchasing? Where does it fit into the supply chain? What’s so strategic about it? It sounds so complicated and unnecessary. Why should I even care?”

Over these past 28 years of my career in Procurement (yes I started when I was 12), I’ve had the privilege and pain of seeing, not just procurement, but many different types of Transformation initiatives succeed and, unfortunately, fail.

Over these past 28 years of my career in Procurement (yes I started when I was 12), I’ve had the privilege and pain of seeing, not just procurement, but many different types of Transformation initiatives succeed and, unfortunately, fail.

Have you ever prepared for a meeting with your executive stakeholders, expecting all to go well, only to have it blow up in your face?  If you haven’t, count yourself lucky!

As the global economy continues to stumble and stutter, the strategic procurement profession is more and more being looked to, to help organizations survive and weather the economic storm, by driving cost savings to the bottom line.