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Talent Talks Podcast

The Talent Talks Podcast provides regular insights and guidance to procurement and supply chain professionals. Host, Martin Smith interviews CPO's within large corporations and brands in the UK such as John Lewis, Mars, Babcock International, Managing Directors of procurement specialist companies including as Procurement Excellence and Embedded IT as well as thought-leaders and authors from the sector. Martin Smith, founder of Talent Drive is a specialist procurement and supply chain recruiter. He uses his network and expertise to provide insightful, thought provoking discussions, as well as providing tips on building your own career in the industry. The podcast is just one area of #projectprocurement; Martin's network of like-minded procurement professionals including webinars, content and events. Register your email to find out about our next meet-up and get involved: https://bit.ly/talenttalksmailinglist We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and do please reach out if you'd like to be a guest; martin@talentdrive.co.uk. All links and references at https://talentdrive.co.uk/

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Talent Talks Podcast

Sustaining Longevity and Success within Procurement Leadership, with Gavin Boswell #95

May 30, 2024 • Talent Drive • Episode 95

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Gavin Boswell, the Director of Procurement at Serco.

They discuss Gavin’s 10-year career at Serco and the evolution of procurement over the past 30 years and the changing role of procurement professionals.

They also explore the value proposition of procurement and the different methods used to deliver cost reduction and value optimisation.

Gavin discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with leading transformation efforts in different organisations and emphasises the importance of creating alignment and appreciating the criticality of leadership in driving successful transformations.

Gavin also discusses AI and its potential impact on procurement regarding processing activities, such as purchase order and invoice processing, as well as more strategic activities like supplier relationship management, innovation, sustainability and risk management.

This episode of Talent Talks covers:

Different methods and approaches are used to deliver cost reduction and value optimisation in procurement.
Innovation and building relationships with suppliers are key to enhancing competitiveness.
Procurement should align with the strategic priorities of the business.
Curiosity leads to a data-driven approach and enables strategic and business-focused procurement.
Being proud of the profession and the journey of development in procurement is rewarding and fulfilling.
AI could play a significant role in procurement, freeing up talent for more impactful activities.

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