INTERVIEW WITH ...
There is strength in different viewpoints , which is why Weetabix ’ s support of cross-functional career moves can be so beneficial . For example , Becky Hain , our Head of Procurement here at Weetabix has previously held roles at the company as Head of Sales and Head of Category . These different experiences have given her a wealth of knowledge , both of the overall market landscape and the company itself , that has really contributed to her success in her current role . We are all expecting ongoing change and as procurement professionals , we are ultimately here to support and manage risk . Having a diverse team is critical to support diverse thinking and we need individuals from various backgrounds to confront norms and push forward our business .
In my short time at Weetabix , I ’ ve seen the emphasis they place on creative thinking and challenging their employees in a constructive way to
“ We need professionals from all backgrounds to support the creativity of thinking and to lead the procurement sector in the years to come ”
PHILIPA ABBOTT PROCUREMENT MANAGER – WHEAT & UTILITIES
WEETABIX be the best they can be . It ’ s important to question the idea , not the individual and a healthy interrogation of ideas is encouraged here .
It ’ s clear that they truly value their people , and this creates a positive and nurturing atmosphere to grow and develop a career – it is honestly an exceptional working environment they create and maintain .
Q : HOW CAN YOU LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY TO GET THE BEST FROM YOUR PROCUREMENT OPERATION ?
» There are lots of systems available for procurement teams nowadays to help you turn data into insight . These can be highly valuable tools in taking complex and vast amounts of data into something that is useful and usable to the wider business .
Here at Weetabix , we use Microsoft Dynamics AX as our ERP system ( moving on to Microsoft 365 from next year ), and use Medius for e-Procurement and Cirtuo for category management . The combined power of these systems gives us the means to effectively manage our data streams and supports automation across the procurement team , as well as other areas of the business .
Without doubt , during my time in procurement , technology has significantly streamlined processes within procurement operations by increasing efficiencies and providing constructive insights to aid better decision-making .
22 October 2023