“ I want to remove the operational burden, deepen automation … expand data-driven insights to guide decision-making and further embed procurement into the technology, security and financial planning conversations”
Linda Siegert Senior Director of Global Procurement SailPoint Technologies
AI introduces entirely new dimensions of risk that demand specialised diligence.
Third-party dependencies now require more than periodic assessments – they demand continuous awareness and shared accountability. These challenges cannot be solved by cyber or procurement operating independently.
From a procurement perspective, the role extends beyond enabling transactions or acting as a gatekeeper for vendor risk. Procurement is a core partner in continuously strengthening the company’ s defences – commercially, operationally and strategically.
When procurement, cyber and legal operate together across the full vendor lifecycle, the organisation benefits from faster decision-making, stronger audit readiness, reduced third-party risk and better long-term value. Security does not slow the business down when cyber and procurement work together – it becomes one of the reasons the business can move faster and with confidence.
Linda says:“ Procurement must be embedded earlier in the decisionmaking process with focus on the true lifecycle ownership, not just buying it and forgetting it, but what does that
144 July 2026