FIVE MINUTES WITH ...
navigate your way around these barriers . The lesson is that even if nothing seems wrong , don ' t assume everything is right .
Q . WHAT MAKES PEOPLE CRITICAL TO SUCCESS ?
» People are the critical factor in the success of a function . I have always found that with the right blend of attitudes , technical competence and enthusiasm , a Procurement team can be a real business enabler and a growth asset to the organisation . I formed effective teams by recruiting people with the right attitude , humility and certainly with the backbone of technical knowledge and skill . You can build knowledge , but mindsets are harder to change without emotional intelligence . Having the courage to shape a team early in a transformation is a key foundation to establishing a strong people pillar . A leader should never suffer fools on this one .
Q . HOW CAN AN ORGANISATION TURN WORDS INTO ACTIONS ?
» In any Industry , it ’ s critical you have a procurement function able to present clear solutions but also to have the willingness and credibility to lead and take ownership of implementing improvements and embedding sustainable change .
By building a wide band value proposition , able to conceptualise , develop and implement true supply chain performance betterment I have found businesses far more willing to adopt change and align with the Procurement vision .
But to do this , you need to understand the landscape and commercial imperative , be clear with your priorities , be a value facilitator and avoid becoming the ‘ lazy buyer ’.
. Q . WHAT DO YOU MEAN BY THE PHRASE : LIVE FOR TODAY , PLAN FOR TOMORROW ?
» I have found that today ’ s problems will very quickly be overtaken by tomorrow ’ s challenges . It is important to have the discipline and take time to invest and develop your function / team , otherwise you collectively will be ill equipped to face future challenges and opportunities .
22 November 2021