INTERVIEW WITH ...
Burton Latimer , we still generate most energy ourselves through our Combined Heat and Power Plant ( CHP ). We will be upgrading this plant over the coming year to enhance its performance and efficiency . We are focused on making day-to-day progress with our utilities efficiency programmes but have also started to work towards our longer-term targets of operating as a net zero business by 2050 . This is a journey we will be undertaking through close work with our partners both up and down the supply chain .
Q : WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING PROCUREMENT PROFESSIONALS AND HOW CAN THEY BE OVERCOME ?
» Change always moves at an unprecedented pace within procurement , especially in recent years , whether it is a change in people behaviour due to Covid or on importing due to Brexit or other political issues impacting market stability .
At the same time there is the backdrop of global warming impacting on the crops and the numerous ongoing challenges this brings us as we look to source responsibly grown wheat for the future . Grain traders have seen 25 different seasons across 25 years , the level and pace of change can be overwhelming . However , it ’ s about working with the data you have and collaborating with suppliers to ensure we can sustainably keep putting breakfast cereal on the table of millions of households .
As a procurement professional we must adjust to these fluctuating markets and an ever-evolving environment . It is therefore increasingly important to be informed of the world around you so that you are in a stronger position to efficiently react to those changes , both communicating the risks with your team and coming up with solutions for the business .
20 October 2023