LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT
She says the Carter Review of Operational Productivity in the NHS was another key moment in the journey of NHS procurement .
“ Findings in the review changed the way we work and have been key in informing the future ambitions of NHS Commercial ,” she says .
Another notable procurement landmark was the introduction of the NHS Central Commercial Function , which she describes as “ a key milestone that allows us to streamline the NHS procurement practice , and bring significant benefits to the taxpayer ”.
And of course , big procurement roles bring sizable challenges . “ One challenge has been raising the importance of commercial and procurement excellence , and demonstrating the opportunities and value it brings at the top table , “ both in the private and the public sector ,” says Rock .
She adds : “ Often , procurement and commercial is located within the finance function , yet commercial and procurement professionals are usually responsible for around a quarter of spend , so I feel really passionately that procurement should be recognised in its own right .”
In a long career of many highs , Rock says that among her proudest achievements is to have transitioned from financial services into the UK government , the Ministry of Defence and now , the NHS .
“ I have met some incredible people over the years ,” she says . “ I am proud to have been both a mentor and mentee
“ I ’ ve met some incredible people over the years and I am proud to have been both a mentor and mentee ”
over the years . I ’ m also really proud of the transition I made from the financial services sector to government .”
I ’ m proud to have been mentored by fantastic colleagues ’ Rock adds that she is also proud to have been mentored by “ several fantastic colleagues over the years ”, adding : “ It ’ s always wonderful to learn from others , but also to share personal lessons learned and experiences with those keen to progress in commercial careers .”
Of her current role , Rock says she is most proud of “ making a huge difference in commercial practice ”.
She adds : “ We ’ ve introduced the Central Commercial Function , the efficiencies programme and the Strategic Framework for NHS Commercial , and we ’ re really starting to move the dial on commercial capability and the way that we work . This will make a huge difference to our people , to patients and to the taxpayer .”
With her vast experience in procurement , Rock is ideally placed
26 April 2024