Podcasts about Procurement

Procurement's problem isn't speed. It's form.  They've gotten great at automating and accelerating weak processes while quietly rewarding the "good contract, bad deal" mentality that ultimately undercuts their own efforts. In this podcast episode of "Buy: The Way…To Purposeful Procurement," Omid Ghamami, president of the Procurement and Supply Chain Management Institute and former Intel purchasing operations leader, joins co-hosts Philip Ideson and Rich Ham to challenge procurement's most comfortable (bad) habits.  He argues that the function claims victory at signature, books "savings" that never actually hit the P&L, and then moves on to the next thing while suppliers are left to harvest margin in the years that follow. Omid also goes after the most likely root causes of all these bad habits: procurement lets business units fixate on what they want to buy instead of what they need to accomplish. That framing hardwires cost into scopes through custom specs, gold-plating, and activity-based requirements.  The cure is outcome design and total cost discipline up front, informed by external references, public contracts, internal history, and supplier knowledge. Pay now or pay later… and most teams pay later. Procurement needs to stop rewarding the 'heroes' who rush in to fix broken deals instead of the leaders who design processes that prevent fires in the first place. As Omid puts it, "We don't reward Smokey the Bear. We reward the firefighters."  If incentives continue to glorify this kind of firefighting, the flames will keep coming. But when procurement starts recognizing prevention as performance, they will finally become the quiet force that keeps value – and trust – intact.  

"If your only role is cost management and processes, that's scary to me. The value of procurement is so much more than that." – Etosha Thurman, Chief Marketing Officer, Finance and Spend Management at SAP AI is rapidly changing procurement's mandate and the expectations that business leaders now have.  Technology is no longer just digitizing processes; it's opening the door to new operating models and deeper business impact. To thrive, procurement teams must deliver far more than savings. They must bring innovation, resilience, and data-driven influence to the table. In this episode, Philip Ideson welcomes Etosha Thurman, Chief Marketing Officer, Finance and Spend Management at SAP. Etosha's career spans sourcing at P&G to leading finance and procurement solutions at SAP. She shares stories and hard-earned insights on how AI is reshaping procurement, what it means for team structure, and why soft skills matter more than ever. Whether you're exploring practical use cases for AI or looking to reposition procurement as a strategic partner, Etosha offers advice you won't hear elsewhere. She also dives into driving internal investment and how procurement leaders can tell a more powerful story about their work. In this episode, Etosha explores how to:   Identify which procurement skills are critical and which may be automated   Rethink your operating model to match AI-enabled workflows   Secure buy-in by linking procurement to business growth and resilience   Turn data and technology investments into lasting business value   Build a stronger brand and tell your procurement story for greater influence Links: Etosha Thurman on LinkedIn Learn more about SAP's Spend Management software Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube

Gugs Mhlungu speaks to Tumelo Legote, a qualified Architect and founder of Organic Compact who shares the story of how she started her entrepreneurial journey . They also reflect on the importance of being resilient and how it can help one grow as an entrepreneur. 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu is broadcast on 702, a Johannesburg based talk radio station, on Saturdays and Sundays Gugs Mhlungu gets you ready for the weekend each Saturday and Sunday morning on 702. She is your weekend wake-up companion, with all you need to know for your weekend. The topics Gugs covers range from lifestyle, family, health, and fitness to books, motoring, cooking, culture, and what is happening on the weekend in 702land. Thank you for listening to a podcast from 702 Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu. Listen live on Primedia+ on Saturdays and Sundays from 06:00 and 10:00 (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Gugs Mhlungu broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/u3Sf7Zy or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/BIXS7AL Subscribe to the 702 daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Emily Murphy, CEO and founder of Government Procurement Strategies (GPS), joins Off the Shelf for a wide-ranging discussion on the state of the federal procurement market. As a former GSA Administrator, Murphy shares her keen insights regarding the Trump administration's re-engineering and re-structuring of federal procurement. She highlights the administration's overarching policy and operational goals including, but not limited to, increasing efficiency, reducing operational costs, and increasing access to the commercial market and commercial solutions.Topics include the consolidation of procurement operations at GSA, how GSA is responding to its expanded role and the progress and potential impact of the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul (RFO). For example, Murphy addresses the significant changes to FAR Part 8 of the FAR. Finally, Murphy shares her thoughts on key management principles for government leaders. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Q4 2025 snapshot of market conditions Is market softness present? Preparing for 2026 with budget considerations Not a client on McKeany-Flavell's IQ Intelligence Platform? Visit mckeany-flavell.com to learn more! Commodity dashboards Dynamic data & interactive charts Analytics & calculators Price forecasts Downloadable data, charts, and tables Host: Nicole Thomas, Vice President – Information Services Guest Expert: Michael Workman, Growth Director at ResinSmart by RTi Global Guest Expert: Kevin Mekaru, Senior Business Unit Lead, Commodity Plastic Resin, RTi Global www.resinsmart.ai

Artificial intelligence — especially agentic AI —  is making traditional category management smarter.

Access the Atlassian podcast to explore how Carahsoft simplifies co-terms, contract management, renewals, discounts and procurement requirements while Clovity accelerates software delivery and implementation.

Nesta entrevista recebemos Tiago Toricelli, Marketing e Brand da Seara Alimentos, para um bate-papo que une duas realidades intensas: a escalada de altas montanhas e os ambientes corporativos.Falamos sobre como os desafios físicos e mentais do montanhismo se conectam com o dia a dia das empresas, trazendo lições práticas de planejamento, execução e superação.Durante a conversa, Tiago compartilhou:A importância do planejamento detalhado para enfrentar riscos e imprevistos;O papel da resiliência mental diante de situações extremas;Como trabalhar em equipe com confiança e alinhamento de objetivos;A correlação entre disciplina na execução da escalada e a entrega de resultados no mundo corporativo;O impacto de transformar desafios em aprendizados estratégicos para gerar valor.O paralelo é inspirador: assim como nas montanhas, no ambiente corporativo o sucesso não vem do improviso, mas da soma de preparo, estratégia e coragem.Um episódio imperdível para quem busca inspiração para elevar o desempenho pessoal e organizacional a novos patamares.

If Procurement is still a ‘your wish is my command' function at your company, you're leaving value on the table.In this episode, host Mike Jansen speaks with Niels Walberg, CPO at K+S Aktiengesellschaft. With over 25 years in procurement, Niels shares how he's driving the shift from reactive service provider to strategic partner at a €1.5 billion spend organisation.He explains why clear KPIs and supplier performance management matter, why stakeholder buy-in is the true lever for lasting change, and how Procurement can embed itself into complex CapEx projects to deliver real business value.You'll learn:1. How Procurement can shift from service provider to strategic partner2. Why strategic coverage outperforms savings as a steering KPI3. The role of stakeholder engagement in driving lasting change4. What makes performance management with contractors effective5. Practical lessons from digitising and simplifying procurement processes___________Get in touch with Niels Walberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niels-walberg-023308b0/___________About the host Mike Jansen:Mike Jansen is Partner at H&Z Management Consulting with over a decade of experience enhancing the value that procurement delivers to organisations. Driven by a passion for tackling challenges, Mike thrives on competition—whether with others or himself. Outside of work, Mike enjoys quality time with his wife and children.Get in touch with Mike Jansen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jansen-mike/

“Is your project really compliant?”That's the billion-dollar question developers across the U.S. are asking as Foreign Entity of Concern (FEOC) rules tighten their grip on clean energy tax credits. If you are(were) banking on the ITC, PTC, or 45X, you can't afford to miss this Tactical Tuesday deep-dive.The rules are shifting. Supply chains are murky. And guidance is still evolving. Host Nico Johnson pulls together an expert panel to decode how FEOC is reshaping the way projects are sourced, engineered, financed, and papered across the U.S. solar and storage market.You'll hear from:Christian Roselund (Clean Energy Associates) — decoding ownership, material assistance, and effective controlRaj Pawar (EVS) — revealing how inverter-level definitions trigger real engineering redesignsAaron Gomolak (Ampt) — showing how string-level optimization keeps projects on schedule and compliantMona Dajani (Baker Botts) — outlining how to structure deals and mitigate legal risk while guidance evolvesExpect to learn:

 On this episode of the "Gen AI Breakthrough" podcast, Chris Sawchuk and Nic Walden discuss the concept of digital world-class performance and its implications for organizations in today's volatile environment. They explore how procurement teams can leverage AI and data-driven insights to develop agile supply chains that thrive amid uncertainty and complexity. By examining historical trends, they highlight how prepared organizations can capitalize on challenges to achieve significant savings and performance improvements. 

Can the new Investment Agency fix Canada's procurement problems or will politics slow that down too? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Well, if there are themes in procurement at the moment then they are AI, cyber and something else - possibly monkeys. Rich and Ed discuss two of these in depth - including whether we'll ever have an AI procurement companion-bot.We have news on what CAPS data is telling us now about how procurement people spend their time (same old); how Peter Smith is finding sex-bots; less chocolate on your Club (and Penguin); and THREE insightful surveys brought to you courtesy of 100 CIPS procurement people in a room in Birmingham.We also find out that we reached "peak procurement" in 1985. Apparently.We have more questions from listeners - this time on cyber insurance, outsourcing cyber defence and what exactly is a SOW? (Spoiler - not a pig).Plus some incredible thought leadership to help you create a procurement vision and develop your organisation using the "Procurement Sophistication Nexus".Plus double plus Diella, the AI procurement bot from Albania, makes an appearance (sort of).  All this plus plus plus more crap procurement jokes.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/procurement-says-no--5886102/support.

On this episode of Talent Talks, Rob Douglas joins Martin Smith to share lessons from a remarkable 30-year career spanning Ford, Capgemini, Barclays, Currys, National Grid, and Direct Line Group. From his first role in “purchasing” to his evolution as Chief Procurement Officer, Rob reveals what it takes to build influence, lead through change and stay curious in a fast-evolving profession.He discusses leadership lessons learned from the Army, the art of supplier relationships, the challenges of attracting new procurement talent and how AI will shape the future of commercial decision-making.This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea.Tune in for a masterclass in leadership, strategy and staying adaptable in an ever-changing procurement landscape.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a colleague and leave us a quick review. It really helps the show grow!Some of the key moments during this podcast include:How Rob started his career in procurement after the ArmyLessons learned from Ford's legendary graduate programBuilding lasting supplier relationships and trustAdapting across industries: retail, energy and financial servicesWhat defines “the buyer's instinct” and how to spot itHow procurement has evolved over three decadesThe growing role of risk management and cyber resilienceWhy graduate programs are disappearing, and why that's a problemRob's advice for aspiring CPOsHow AI and automation could enhance, not replace, procurementSoundbites“You can be fact-driven without being horrible.”“The buyer's instinct. You either have it or you don't.”“Procurement isn't just about savings anymore. It's about resilience and relationships.”“As a leader, it's not about winning every argument. It's about helping your team make great decisions.”“Treat suppliers well. It's a small industry, you'll meet them again.”“We've lost too many graduate programs, and the profession will feel that gap.”“Curiosity has taken me further than ambition ever did.”“AI will enhance procurement. It won't replace human instinct.”“Preparation is everything. You can't fake being ready.”“If you want to be a great CPO, keep lifting the bonnet and stay curious.”Chapters00:00 – Intro01:00 – Early Career and Army lessons03:00 – Learning the Foundations at Ford05:20 – Building Strong Supplier Relationships08:10 – Adapting Across Industries11:50 – How Procurement has Evolved13:10 – Buyer's Instinct18:00 – Balancing Risk and Commerciality20:40 – Leadership Lessons and Developing Teams24:30 – The Future of Procurement Talent30:10 – Advice for Aspiring CPOs37:00 – Quickfire Questions

"The value isn't in giving them the coffee beans and hoping they take that away and make a cup of coffee – what they need is a drink. So instead of giving them the data, do the extra steps and pull out the insights for them." - Satvinder Panesar, Data and Analytics Strategy Director, AstraZeneca Procurement leaders are surrounded by data, but turning numbers into true business impact is a new kind of challenge.  As AI and analytics tools promise even more information, the real differentiator is knowing how to interpret, validate, and act on those outputs… before your competitors do. Satvinder Panesar, Data and Analytics Strategy Director at AstraZeneca, joined Philip Ideson at ProcureTEX in London. Philip was there at the invitation of Beroe to speak with some of their customers about turning data into actionable insights. In this conversation, Sat breaks down the evolution of procurement analytics, explains why data literacy is a must-have skill, and points out how any leader or team can begin building those muscles, starting with the tools they already have. Expect a practical, honest conversation about the skills gap, the dangers of outsourcing data thinking, and how procurement teams can take charge in a world of increasingly complex analytics: Why "insights" matter more than raw data in procurement How to bridge gaps between data, category, and analytics teams  Practical first steps to improve procurement data literacy What AI can (and can't) do for procurement professionals Links: Satvinder Panesar on LinkedIn AOP Provider Directory: Beroe Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube  

"The value you bring as a procurement function has transcended being a cost saver. They are now a discussion partner with other functions and bring value in the form of intelligence." - Adrian Vicol, Data Strategy Lead & Data Architect, Siemens Energy Procurement leaders are facing more complex questions about data than ever before. As organizations move toward AI and automation, the need for clean, reliable, and actionable data is skyrocketing – but most teams are still wrestling with legacy challenges and data silos.  Getting this right is no longer optional; it's becoming mission-critical. In this special episode, recorded on-site at ProcureTEX in London, host Philip Ideson speaks with Adrian Vicol, Data Strategy Lead at Siemens Energy. Philip was there at the invitation of Beroe to speak with some of their customers about turning data into actionable insights. Adrian shares a no-nonsense perspective on what it really takes to close the data-to-action gap for procurement. You'll hear firsthand how Siemens Energy is building a strong data foundation, implementing practical governance, and reshaping the way their procurement teams deliver value across the business. In this episode, Adrian discusses how to: Define a clear North Star for procurement data strategy and automation Structure strong data governance with business and technical roles Approach legacy data cleanup pragmatically to build trust in analytics Integrate internal and external data for real-time insights   Engage procurement professionals to share expertise and drive adoption Links: Adrian Vicol on LinkedIn AOP Provider Directory: Beroe Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube  

We all have heard phrases like "right size your procurement function" and a "fit for purpose procurement solution".  In this episode David explains that Procurement can be a balancing act and he does this by breaking down 11 challenges whilst also providing key metrics to measure your success.

Episode Summary: In this episode, Heather “Lucky” Penney talks to Lt. Gen. David Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Charles Galbreath, Kyle “Puma” Pumroy, Todd “Sledge” Harmer, and Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski about the top defense issues this month in Washington, D.C. and beyond. ​​​​​​ Our team digs into where the defense bills stand in Congress as well as the national security impact of the government shutdown. We also discuss the latest Ukraine news, plus several spacepower developments—everything from Chinese gains on orbit to the role orbital aggressors play in modern spacepower. Plus, we explore organizational happenings, like the decision to role the ICC function into A5/7, not pursue Space Force Futures, and downgrading USAFE to a 3-star billet. We wrap up by highlighting the new small UAS test efforts at Grand Forks AFB and jump into the renewed debate on whether too much is being spent on Air Force R&D vs procurement and readiness. Credits: Host: Heather "Lucky" Penney, Director of Research, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Producer: Shane Thin  Executive Producer: Douglas Birkey Guest: Lt Gen David A. Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Dean, The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies Guest: Charles Galbreath, Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE) Guest: Kyle "Puma" Pumroy, Senior Resident Fellow for Space Studies, The Mitchell Institute Spacepower Advantage Center of Excellence (MI-SPACE) Guest: Todd “Sledge” Harmer, Senior Vice President, American Defense International Guest: Anthony “Lazer” Lazarski, Principal, Cornerstone Government Affairs Links: Subscribe to our Youtube Channel: https://bit.ly/3GbA5Of Website: https://mitchellaerospacepower.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/MitchellStudies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Mitchell.Institute.Aerospace LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3nzBisb Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitchellstudies/ #MitchellStudies #AerospaceAdvantage #rendezvous

Every product a company ships depends on thousands of tiny decisions happening deep inside the supply chain. But most organizations are still making those decisions using stale spreadsheets, fragmented systems, and guesswork. In this episode, we explore how AI-driven procurement intelligence is changing the game – moving teams from reactive firefighting to proactive supply chain planning. Our guest today is Shardul Shah, cofounder of Veritos.AI. He breaks down the hidden risks inside modern supply networks, why so many companies still lack real-time component and supplier visibility, and how better data can prevent shortages, backorders, and costly redesigns before they happen. We discuss:Why most organizations still rely on Excel for procurement decisionsThe real reason supply chain disruptions keep catching teams off guardHow AI and real-time data can alert teams to risks ahead of timeThe growing need for operational visibility across engineering, finance, and sourcingHow procurement becomes a strategic advantage, not just a cost center If you're responsible for building products, managing vendors, scaling hardware, or supporting manufacturing operations, this conversation will change how you think about supply chain intelligence and the future of procurement. Watch Next: https://youtu.be/OI0zRk7Mau4?si=7k0htLXyYJIWolpY Key Moments:0:00 Who Shardul Is & Why This Matters2:10 The Problem That Sparked Veritos.AI6:06 Why Procurement Visibility Is Broken15:55 How Veritos.AI Works (High-Level Overview)19:40 Why Supply Chain Is So Hard to Manage22:30 Identifying Alternative Parts & Replacements26:43 Real Example: The Power of Component Visibility29:00 The Role of AI in Modern Procurement35:15 The Current State of Procurement (And Its Challenges)38:50 The Biggest Skill Gap in Procurement: Understanding Cost46:00 The Disconnect Between Engineering & Procurement50:40 The Future: AI-Powered Procurement Command Centers -- This episode of IT Visionaries is brought to you by Meter - the company building better networks. Businesses today are frustrated with outdated providers, rigid pricing, and fragmented tools. Meter changes that with a single integrated solution that covers everything wired, wireless, and even cellular networking. They design the hardware, write the firmware, build the software, and manage it all so your team doesn't have to.That means you get fast, secure, and scalable connectivity without the complexity of juggling multiple providers. Thanks to meter for sponsoring. Go to meter.com/itv to book a demo.---IT Visionaries is made by the team at Mission.org. Learn more about our media studio and network of podcasts at mission.org. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of The Big Bid Theory, host Bill Culhane welcomes procurement leader Selena Leon, CPPB, as she shares her inspiring career journey and fresh insights into the world of public procurement. Selena brings seven years of experience in the field and currently serves as a Purchasing Manager in state procurement. Her professional path spans county and state levels and reflects a strong commitment to advancing the profession. We dig into key topics including:Selena's transition from county procurement to state procurement and what that means for career developmentWhat she learned and experienced at the recent NIGP: The Institute for Public Procurement Forum and the Arizona State Capitol Chapter of NIGP conference and vendor expoHer clear stance on reducing gatekeeping in the profession and ensuring an environment of service, support, and professional growthThe successes and challenges of procurement work in the public sector, and why ongoing professional development and recognition matter more than everWhether you're already working in government procurement, considering entering the profession, or advising vendors or agency leaders, this episode offers valuable lessons and thought‑provoking perspectives.Rick Jennings closes out with his “Crazy Bids You Can Win” segment to add a light but meaningful wrap‑up.

"Capitalism, then, is by nature a form or method of economic change and not only never is but never can be stationary." - Austrian Economist Joseph Schumpeter (1950) The 2025 Nobel Prize in Economics was recently awarded to Joel Mokyr, an economic historian at Northwestern University, Philippe Aghion, who is affiliated with universities in France and the U.K., and Peter Howitt, a professor of economics at Brown University. Philippe Aghion and Peter Howitt worked together for decades to develop and publish a model that makes it possible to better understand business growth - but not just any growth. The growth fueled by Creative Destruction. Creative Destruction was first described by Austrian economist Joseph Schumpeter in 1942 in response to ideas from Karl Marx's Communist Manifesto. In fact, Marx thought, and Schumpeter agreed, that it would lead to the end of capitalism… they just didn't agree on why. In this episode of the Art of Supply podcast, Kelly Barner covers: What Creative Destruction is, and why it is no ordinary form of growth How the idea is connected to the potential end of capitalism Why it is so fascinating that this idea is being highlighted at this moment in time, with the rise of AI right before us. Links: Kelly Barner on LinkedIn Art of Supply LinkedIn newsletter Art of Supply on AOP Subscribe to This Week in Procurement

Procurement's toughest problems rarely come from spreadsheets or contracts. They come from people. In this episode of "Buy: The Way…To Purposeful Procurement," David Loseby – professor, former CPO, and self-described "pracademic" – joins Philip Ideson and Rich Ham to explore why procurement's incentive systems often fail not because they're wrong on paper, but because they ignore how people actually think and act. Unfortunately, he says, most systems are designed for tidy models, not messy human behavior. Drawing on behavioral science and front-line experience, David introduces the idea of "behavioral architecture," a practical approach to shaping decisions by understanding how different audiences think, decide, and act. Finance wants the spreadsheet. Marketing wants the story. The CEO wants 30 seconds and a decision. A single, one-size-fits-all KPI (which we know is usually "savings") can't carry that load, and when it tries, it often drives the wrong behaviors. Instead, David makes the case for incentives that create shared ownership of outcomes across functions. He walks through a concrete example of shifting an energy "re-tender" into an enterprise-wide consumption program that improved P&L results through local engagement, gamification, and rapid payback actions – all proof that when the metric matches the mission, the business moves. He then applies the same logic to sustainability, customer experience, and resilience, showing how to frame the same initiative in different "languages" across the business without diluting the goal. David also offers actionable guidance: build balanced scorecards that include the business's priorities (not only procurement's), tie a portion of bonuses to stakeholder metrics, and tailor communications so each audience sees their value in the work. It's a call to action for procurement that may be uncomfortable, but it's exactly what they need to hear: if you want purposeful outcomes, you have to design for human behavior, not inhuman systems and processes. Links: David Loseby on LinkedIn Rich Ham on LinkedIn Learn more at FineTuneUs.com

Iran Defies West on Nuclear Program Despite Loss of Key Scientists. Jonathan Schanzer discusses Iran's defiant nuclear program, noting the procurement of air defense systems from Russia and China is debatable. A major setback has been the loss of nuclear scientists due to targeted assassinations. Iran is heavily supporting the Houthis (now a full proxy), sending ballistic missile components and IRGC officials to help assemble them in Yemen. Snapback sanctions' impact on Iran's partnerships with Russia and China remains uncertain. 1543

Connect to John Gilroy on LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-gilroy/ Want to listen to other episodes? www.Federaltechpodcast.com Elastic has been around since 2012 and has been gradually gaining traction in the commercial world. In fact, Elastic has recently signed agreements with Nvidia and Google to improve integration with its distributed search analysis. All this assists with AI search and observability. Today, we sat down with Chris Thompson from Elastic to highlight how commercial success can be applied to the federal world. Looking back at his decades of work with federal agencies, he sees one of the problems in acquisition. In a world of rapid change, it is challenging to acquire technology that can keep pace with the fast pace of change. During the interview, Thompson discusses a recent strategic agreement developed by Elastic working with the GSA and other companies. This streamlines the process of providing technology to federal professionals. This agreement accomplished several tasks at once: >>It leverages the GSA's collective buying power. Rather than negotiating separate prices for dozens of agencies, it has substantial discounts with all the major cloud providers. >>>  It reduces duplication. We know several federal agencies are facing similar tech challenges. Rather than duplicating requirements gathering and testing before making a purchase, the GSA approach eliminates this duplicative process. >>With numerous AI tools flooding the market, this agreement enables the accelerated use of these tools.  >> When you have standardized contracts, enhanced security is typically the result. No contract is perfect, and people who have developed this agreement know it is a living document that can flex and adapt to technical situations as they arise. GSA officials have stated this is an evolving approach, giving it the ability to adapt to innovative technology, new companies, and a rapidly changing cyber threat.    

“Fraudulent conduct robs the government – at all levels, local, state, or federal – of the benefit of competition. Competition is free and open; it is the Magna Carta of the American economic system, and robbing the government of that benefit is inherently wrongful.”  Public sector procurement faces mounting challenges, not least of which is the threat of collusion and fraud that quietly erodes budgets and public trust. The Department of Justice's Procurement Collusion Strike Force is taking this seriously, with a coordinated and data-driven approach to cracking down on anticompetitive conduct at all levels. In this episode, Philip Ideson speaks with Daniel Glad, Director of the Procurement Collusion Strike Force at the DOJ, who walks listeners through the reality of prosecuting bid rigging and price fixing in public contracts.  Daniel shares compelling stories, actionable red flags, and new tools (like the groundbreaking whistleblower reward program) that empower honest players to speak up. Learn what triggers a federal investigation, which spend categories are especially vulnerable, and why the risks (and penalties) for collusion have never been higher. In this episode, Daniel discusses ways to: Identify which purchasing patterns often attract collusive behavior Detect early warning signs that suggest fraudulent bidding Leverage whistleblower programs to protect your organization and career Understand how technology and data analytics are changing enforcement Prepare for the scrutiny of the DOJ's proactive investigative methods Links: Daniel Glad on LinkedIn Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube

Is the agency world oversupplied—or just under differentiated? In this episode, Gabriella Mirabelli speaks with Robin Bonn, CEO of Co:definery and author of Market of One, about why most agencies struggle to stand out—and how they can fix it. They discuss the myths of procurement power, why “our people” isn't a strategy, and how smart specialization can transform your business. Whether you're leading an agency, consulting firm, or any service-based business, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on pricing, positioning, and building a truly unique market presence.

When it comes to moving freight long distances, you can go from ship to drayage to rail to over-the-road trucking… or you can go intermodal. Intermodal freight transportation combines the advantages of sea, air, and land transport to facilitate a preplanned end-to-end journey. Understanding the relative cost, security, and emissions benefits of intermodal transportation is key for companies looking for the most efficient way to move their goods. In this episode of Art of Supply, Kelly Barner is joined by Anne Reinke, the CEO and President of the Intermodal Association of North America (IANA). Anne has experience lobbying for the rail industry and working at the Department of Transportation, as well as with an organization representing 3PLs. In this episode of the Art of Supply podcast, Kelly and Anne discuss: How the relative roles of private companies and government agencies vary by mode of transportation Which factors are most influential in driving demand for intermodal transportation How tariffs are changing shipper behavior, altering the usual seasonal patterns for transportation peaks and lows   Links: Anne Reinke on LinkedIn Intermodal Association of North America Kelly Barner on LinkedIn Art of Supply LinkedIn newsletter  Art of Supply on AOP Subscribe to This Week in Procurement  

Modernization sits at the heart of Florida's procurement transformation. Jessie Marks, Florida's Chief Procurement Officer, shares her fascinating 18-year journey from part-time administrative assistant to CPO, revealing how the relationship-building and clear writing skills from journalism perfectly translated to crafting thoughtful procurements and saving taxpayer dollars. Marks details how her team leverages AI technology, cloud-based solutions, and automated reporting systems to increase efficiency while maintaining transparency. The cloud-based platform they've implemented provides real-time updates on active solicitations and contracts, eliminating the guesswork and bottlenecks that once plagued their process. Rather than making decisions in a vacuum, Florida's approach emphasizes data-driven strategies and stakeholder buy-in.Ready to transform your own procurement approach? Subscribe to NASPO's Pulse for more insights from public procurement leaders across the nation, and discover how relationship-building, technology, and professional development can elevate your procurement outcomes.Follow & subscribe to stay up-to-date on NASPO!naspo.org | Pulse Blog | LinkedIn | Youtube | Facebook

The myth says procurement is the holdup. We put that belief under a bright light with Oklahoma's Chief Procurement Officer, Amanda Otis, and trace exactly how a team moves from jungle to clarity—no playbook, tight resources, and high expectations. Amanda shares how a legal mind mapped undocumented processes, separated statutory “musts” from inherited habits, and rebuilt the office around category management so expertise links directly to spend and supplier markets.We get into the nuts and bolts: using PeopleSoft for e-procurement and sourcing without piling on complexity, leaning on AI to distill 500-page documents into crisp briefs (with human review), and adopting OneNote to tame the flood of work that email and spreadsheets couldn't handle. Trust becomes the center of gravity. Amanda explains why fast acknowledgments, reliable follow-through, and monthly “Central Purchasing Listens” sessions turned an “ivory tower” into a responsive service partner. Skeptics on the team weren't ignored; they were invited into experiments with a simple promise—try it, measure it, change it if it fails within six months.Join us for a straight-talking playbook on modern public procurement: category management, transparent metrics, trust-building, and structured innovation that actually ships. If this episode sparks ideas for your team, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review with your favorite takeaway so more practitioners can find it.Follow & subscribe to stay up-to-date on NASPO!naspo.org | Pulse Blog | LinkedIn | Youtube | Facebook

Procurement is no longer just about cutting costs. It's about creating value, building partnerships and helping finance teams make smarter, faster decisions. On this episode of The CFO Show, Aaqil Kassamali, Procurement Director at Vena Solutions, joins Melissa Howatson to discuss how procurement has evolved into a strategic function that drives innovation and alignment across the business. Aaqil shares lessons from building procurement teams from the ground up, using technology to gain visibility and insight, and balancing short-term savings with long-term value. He also explains why trust, business acumen and collaboration are now the true measures of success in modern procurement. Discussed in This Episode: Shifting procurement from tactical to strategic The impact of visibility and data on smarter decision-making Building trust and partnership across business functions Balancing short-term wins with long-term value creation Exploring the future of procurement in an AI-driven worldFor CFO insights, episode show notes and exclusive blog content, visit thecfoshowpodcast.com.

What happens when a state with the world's fourth-largest economy revolutionizes how it buys everything from office supplies to life-saving fire retardant? Angela Shell, California's Chief Procurement Officer, takes us behind the scenes of procurement modernization in the Golden State.Through data transparency initiatives, California has transformed how government agencies make purchasing decisions. Their enterprise procurement system captures every state purchase—revealing everything from multi-million dollar contracts to that time someone accidentally ordered "a million packages of ketchup." This wealth of information drives smarter buying decisions and allows unprecedented public visibility into government spending through dashboards anyone can access.Whether you're a government buyer, supplier, or simply curious about how your tax dollars are spent, this conversation offers fascinating insights into procurement's evolution and its critical role in public service. Subscribe to NASPO's Pulse for more conversations at the forefront of government innovation.Follow & subscribe to stay up-to-date on NASPO!naspo.org | Pulse Blog | LinkedIn | Youtube | Facebook

What happens when public procurement codes fail to keep pace with modern needs? Delbert Singleton and Stacy Adams from South Carolina's Division of Procurement Services reveal how their state successfully modernized its procurement rules through thoughtful, strategic updates.With candid insights from their combined years of experience, our guests share how they've navigated four major code revisions since 1994. Listen as Delbert and Stacy describe their comprehensive process of consulting stakeholders, researching other states' practices, and carefully weighing competing needs while maintaining procurement integrity.Whether you're a procurement leader looking to update outdated processes or simply interested in how government purchasing evolves to meet changing needs, this episode provides an invaluable roadmap for thoughtful, effective procurement reform. Listen now to part one of our two-part episode with South Carolina to learn how your organization can balance innovation with accountability in public procurement.Follow & subscribe to stay up-to-date on NASPO!naspo.org | Pulse Blog | LinkedIn | Youtube | Facebook

Explore the podcast → https://ibm.biz/BdbYhMLearn about AI agents for procurement → https://ibm.biz/BdbYhSProcurement is stepping into the future with AI. In this AI in Action episode, expert Daniel Barnes chats with David Levy about how agentic AI is shaking up procurement, which has long been stuck in spreadsheets and slow processes. Watch the episode to understand how AI is pulling insights from contracts, vendor documents and other datasets, empowering procurement teams to make smarter, faster decisions. Also, learn how some companies are stumbling by trying to AI everything at once. Companies need to understand that the smart move is to start small and then scale up. 0:00 - Intro02:14 - Data management in procurement 08:45 - How agentic AI has changed procurement13:10 - How AI and data are redefining vendor evaluation17:17 - Getting CPOs started with the right technology23:54 - The rise of agentic negotiators26:37 - Risks of ignoring AI-driven procurement opportunitiesThe opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the participants and do not necessarily reflect the views of IBM or any other organization or entity.

Probity is the foundation of ethical business conduct. It means acting with integrity, transparency, maintaining confidentiality and fairness, and without bias in all decisions and that's why Probity is so important.

“Too many procurement professionals have developed a push energy. If you take that same approach with internal stakeholders, it won't work. We need to develop pull energy — asking questions, listening, and creating a shared vision.” - Giuseppe Conti, Professor, Author of Negotiation + Influence = Success: Quick Lessons to Help You Win in Corporate Life Procurement leaders know how much the field has changed, but the biggest barriers often come from within. As procurement's role expands, it has become essential to influence internally, manage expectations, and go beyond data-driven persuasion. In this Art of Procurement podcast episode, Philip Ideson speaks with Giuseppe Conti, a seasoned procurement executive turned business school professor. Giuseppe reveals why internal negotiation is so much tougher than dealing with suppliers, and offers strategies to shift procurement teams from “push” to “pull” influence. If your team's technical skills are strong, but your impact could be greater, this is a must-listen. Giuseppe's practical tools – like a 20-minute, one-page prep template and real-world active listening techniques – will give any procurement leader an edge. In this episode, Giuseppe explains how to: Diagnose and close the gap between perceived and actual listening skills Move from “push energy” to “pull energy” for genuine, lasting influence Set realistic internal stakeholder expectations and avoid common missteps Balance data with emotional intelligence to drive decisions Links: Giuseppe Conti on LinkedIn Negotiation + Influence = Success: Quick Lessons to Help You Win in Corporate Life by Giuseppe Conti Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube

2025-10-17 | Silicon Wafers 031 | DAILY UPDATES | Today: Why Russia's War Machine Is Cracking, and it fails to fundamentally reform. Is the Russian military failing? What systemic, strategic, technical, and economic fractures are eating it from within? And what does that mean for Ukraine and Russia's imperial dreams? Here are the angles we'll explore: 1. Strategic misalignment & flawed doctrine2. Structural weaknesses in the military‑industrial complex3. Logistics, supply chains, and chokepoints4. Technology, drones, and innovation shortfalls5. Economic strain, manpower, and corruption6. Recent battlefield case study + outlook----------Partner on this video: KYIV OF MINE Watch the trailer now: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=arJUcE1rxY0'Kyiv of Mine' is a documentary series about Ukraine's beautiful capital, Kyiv. The film production began in 2018, and much has changed since then. It is now 2025, and this story is far from over.https://www.youtube.com/@UCz6UbVKfqutH-N7WXnC5Ykg https://www.kyivofmine.com/#theprojectKyiv of Mine is fast paced, beautifully filmed, humorous, fun, insightful, heartbreaking, moving, hopeful. The very antithesis in fact of a doom-laden and worthy wartime documentary. This is a work that is extraordinarily uplifting. My friend Operator Starsky says the film is “Made with so much love. The film series will make you laugh and cry.” ----------SOURCES: Russia's War Machine Runs Out of Resources — Reddit discussion, citing military spending dataComparing the Size and Capabilities of the Russian and Ukrainian Militaries — Council on Foreign RelationsRussia's Struggle to Modernize Its Military Industry — Chatham House Russia Analytical Report, Oct. 6–14, 2025 — RussiaMatters Disassembling the Russian War Machine: Logistics, Procurement, Constraints — KSE Institute Russia Has the Resources for a Long War in Ukraine — Carnegie Endowment Economic impact of the Russo‑Ukrainian war — Wikipedia & referencesRussian arms industry overview — WikipediaBattle of Avdiivka (2023–2024) — Wikipedia & open sources Forecasting Russian Equipment Losses Using Time Series and Deep Learning Models (ArXiv)“Russia's coal miners buckle under sanctions…” — Financial Times (2025) “Russian high military recruitment bonuses…” — Business Insider (2025)“New report says Russia is better able to withstand heavy battlefield losses…” — AP News“Ukraine war briefing: Crimea oil depot burns…” — The Guardian“The key to success is in the sky” — The Guardian on Russia's air assault“Power restored to 800,000 in Kyiv…” — AP News“Russian tycoon body count … mysterious deaths” — NY Post“Russia is unleashing a new surge of exploding drone attacks on Ukraine's rail network” — Business Insider“The ‘Deathonomics' Powering Russia's War Machine” — Wall Street JournalThe Economic Costs of the Russia‑Ukraine War: A Synthetic Control Study of (Lost) Entrepreneurship — Audretsch et al. (arXiv)----------SILICON CURTAIN FILM FUNDRAISERA project to make a documentary film in Ukraine, to raise awareness of Ukraine's struggle and in supporting a team running aid convoys to Ukraine's front-line towns.https://buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain/extras----------

Global trading of steel, lumber, and rare earth minerals makes our companies and industries and economies work. And yet, right up there with those examples is an agricultural commodity many people don't like and won't eat: soybeans. Soybeans are a huge focus of the trade talks between the U.S. and China, and there is a lot at stake between now and the end of the year, especially for U.S. soybean farmers. China has been actively diversifying their sources of soybeans away from the United States, and they have developed at least two viable alternatives: Brazil and Argentina. The U.S. has less actively (and only lately) started diversifying their customer base for exported soybeans, leaving farmers with a bumper crop and no one to sell it to. In this episode of the Art of Supply podcast, Kelly Barner covers the soybean supply chain and its intersection with geopolitics: Starting with an overview of the global soybean market and how soybean trade is being affected by tariffs Why soybean farmers are upset with the country of Argentina - and the Federal government How the United States actually took soybean production away from China in the 1950s and 1960s, but now stands to lose their place as a prominent global source Links: Kelly Barner on LinkedIn Art of Supply LinkedIn newsletter  Art of Supply on AOP Subscribe to This Week in Procurement  

Procurement doesn't just have a measurement problem. It has a motivation problem. Behind every misaligned target, every “savings” claim, and every missed opportunity is the same invisible culprit: incentives that quietly tell people to do the wrong things well. In this episode of Buy: The Way…To Purposeful Procurement, Jason Brown, accounting professor at Indiana University and longtime corporate incentives expert, joins co-hosts Philip Ideson and Rich Ham to expose how organizational reward systems shape behavior far more powerfully than strategy or mission statements ever could. He explains why even the most principled teams end up chasing metrics that distort procurement's purpose, and why rethinking incentive design may be the key to unlocking true business alignment. Drawing from decades of academic research and corporate consulting, Jason unpacks the subtle ways procurement incentives drift off course: how bonus structures reward volume over value, how finance and procurement end up speaking different dialects of “performance,” and how organizations confuse compliance with contribution. He also brings attention to the rare examples of companies that have broken these patterns by tying procurement's rewards directly to shared outcomes that improve EBITDA, resilience, and stakeholder trust. This conversation challenges a fundamental assumption: can procurement ever be purposeful if its people are rewarded for something other than real impact?  As Jason argues, until incentives reflect what actually matters to the business and society, procurement will remain stuck in a cycle of performative alignment where everyone looks busy but the enterprise stands still. According to Jason, the truth may be uncomfortable, but it's exactly what procurement needs to hear. Incentive design isn't a soft topic or a side project. It's the operating system of purposeful procurement, and it's long overdue for an upgrade. Links: Jason Brown on LinkedInRich Ham on LinkedInLearn more at FineTuneUs.com

Join host Sean White as he interviews Jason Evans, co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer at ProScore Technologies, about the transformative role of AI in workforce management for the renewable energy sector. Discover how ProScore's innovative solutions streamline compliance with the Inflation Reduction Act, simplify onboarding for contractors and subcontractors, and support apprenticeship programs across the industry. This episode offers valuable insights into prevailing wage compliance, high-paying career opportunities, and the future of technology-driven workforce solutions in clean energy.   Topics Covered ProScore Technologies IRA = Inflation Reduction Act Constructors and Subcontractors Apprenticeship Program Incentives Tax Credits E-Learning EPC = Engineering, Procurement and Construction AI = Artificial Intelligence ASES = American Solar Energy Society Big Beautiful Bill Prevailing Wage Davis-Bacon www.sam.gov ProScore Connect Solar Apprenticeship Program   Reach out to Jason Evans here: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jason-evans Website: www.proscore.ai   Learn more at www.solarSEAN.com and be sure to get NABCEP certified by taking Sean's classes at www.heatspring.com/sean www.solarsean.com/pvip www.solarsean.com/esip

I spent two days on the ground at Legal Tech Talk London, speaking to the people shaping the future of law, from AI innovators to legal ops leaders.And what I heard? Surprising. Honest. Game-changing.In this episode, I'm talking with:Richard Macklin, ex-Global Vice Chair for Dentons and now, world-class coach for leaders at the Alexander Partnership and on the training committee for the City of London Law Society.Lorraine Lee, fractional Chief Privacy Officer, General Counsel and Executive Coach.Mahwash Ali, Procurement expert for law firms.She helps law firms stop overpaying suppliers and start saving on supplier spend.Thomas Bueler-Faudree, founder of August, the first AI legal assistant that can research, draft and revise autonomously.Robert Hanna, host of The Legally Speaking Podcast.Dharshi Harindra, Fractional General Counsel, Executive Coach to Legal Leaders, and host of Unbiased Podcast.Jono Randell-Nash, ex-lawyer turned independent financial advisor specializing in the legal profession.Charlene Gisele, former BigLaw litigator turned high-performance coach for lawyers, law firms and executives.Caleb Harris, Founder, CEO at &AI • AI for Patent LitigationMerlin Beyts, Content Director at Legal Tech Talk London.---Aircounsel has been kind enough to sponsor this episode.And I'm excited to spread the word. It's the most sophisticated contract drafting software I've used.To get your free 7-day trial, go to the description of this episode.Give it a go and let me know how it changes your workflow.TRY Aircounsel here:https://lawyers.aircounsel.com/morethanalawyerDisclaimer: This is an affiliate link that will track podcast sign-ups. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scott Murakami, PHIG Workforce Director and Principal Investigator with the State of Hawaii, shares how his department is utilizing Public Health Infrastructure Grant funds to support the state's public health workforce; jurisdictions looking to stay current on PHIG deadlines, project updates, resources and more can subscribe to the PHIG National Partners Connections newsletter; Melissa Touma, Director of the Public Health Infrastructure Program at ASTHO, discusses why procurement timelines are so critical and how PHIG recipients are using the grant to accelerate them; and Melissa Magstadt, ASTHO member and Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Health, was recently honored with the State Official Award by the South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations.  ASTHO Web Page: Public Health Infrastructure Grant ASTHO Web Page: Subscribe: PHIG Connections Newsletter ASTHO Blog: PHIG Recipients Accelerating Procurement Processes South Dakota Association of Healthcare Organizations: SDAHO recognizes 9 individuals with Distinguished Service Awards during 2025 Annual Convention  

“Everyone keeps talking about AI just for the sake of AI, but, ultimately, the only thing that matters is the outcome you can achieve.” - Baber Farooq, Senior Vice President, Market Strategy, Procurement Solutions at SAP Procurement leaders have long felt the pinch: rising expectations, tight budgets, and platforms that struggle to keep up with user expectations. As AI shifts from a buzzword to true capability, procurement needs to rethink what they need from their core procurement suite. What will it take to move from incremental change to a genuine step-change in productivity? In this episode, Baber Farooq, Senior Vice President, Market Strategy, Procurement Solutions at SAP, discusses the future of SAP Ariba and what “next-gen” truly means for procurement. To do this, Baber draws back the curtain on SAP's rethink of Ariba, including why incremental AI add-ons just weren't enough, and how his team approached trust, transparency, and a seamless transition for current users. In this episode, Baber speaks about: Reimagining procurement technology with AI as a core capability, not a bolt-on Why data quality and structure are critical to enabling reliable AI outcomes Concrete examples of how generative AI changes real user workflows and decision-making Links: Baber Farooq on LinkedIn Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube  

With: Nicholas Nelson (Archangel) • Dan • Lomax • MadsTL;DW• Defence-first wins on capability and returns; primes are partners and channels.• Helsing: buys platforms/revenue for access; layers AI—different from Anduril's buy-TRL-tech + scale model.• Beyond drones: biggest gap/opportunity is tactical EW.• Procurement: more fast lanes (SOF, pilots); primes getting easier to work with.• AI: real profits exist (esp. NVIDIA), but value chain is fragile; expect a correction, not a collapse. Picking winners more important than timing.Content with Time Codes02:40 — Why defence-firstBeats dual-use on outcomes and returns; lifelong focus.04:32 — DefinitionsCustomer = MoDs + primes; aim: lethality/readiness and societal resilience. Beware “defence-washing”.06:37 — What's hotAvoid herd to drones only; counter-UAS, EW, human performance, deception, survivability.08:23 — Helsing buys GrobNeo-prime play: new co buys legacy manufacturing for platform access.10:42 — The two Defence M&A playbooksAnduril: buys mid-TRL tech (Area-I, Dive LD/Ghost Shark, Adranos) → scales via brand/distribution.Helsing: buys finished products/revenue (Mittelstand) → immediate customers; then add AI.14:25 — Prime status & capitalDistribution + capital to AI-enable platforms.17:47 — Roll-up vs buildNarrative “build”; execution “roll-up + build”.19:47 — Drones & ‘drone wall'Layered answer: blunt with drones, hold with conventional forces.21:49 — The big one: Electronic Warfare (EW)NATO underinvested; tactical EW is the unmet need; legacy kit is '80s/'90s.24:54 — Startup wedgePut EW at the edge (drones/aircraft/fixed) → near-term wins.26:33 — Baltic realismHistory, 2007–09 Estonia cyber, current incursions; likely Kaliningrad corridor.28:19 — Founder mistakesTech ≠ win by itself; experience + gov engagement matters; US analogue: top funds have IC/SOF DNA.30:43 —  Are there really only a “Few buyers?”Many real buyers inside a MoD/DoD (services, sub-units, innovation orgs).36:23 — Sovereignty & US primesUS strategics will buy abroad; Europe balancing autonomy with jobs/exits.41:07 — Starlink vs IRIS²Starlink's lead + cadence; IRIS² slower—watch timelines vs evolving threats.47:18 — AI bubble?Warnings vs fundamentals; self-funded capex; real profits.49:37 — NVIDIA ramp$4.4B (2023) → $73B this year; growth tempers multiples.51:48 — AI Circular money & marginsCursor → Anthropic → hyperscalers → NVIDIA; only NVIDIA mints big margins; margin pressure coming (new semis, China, SLMs).53:12 — Picking beats timingDot-com lesson: Cisco losses vs Amazon wins.54:19 — Capacity vs efficiencyCapex likely useful long-run, but open source squeezes costs.55:52 — Platform riskFrontier labs moving up-stack; vertical AI + trust + data = moat.58:58 — Base caseLikely correction (30–50%) at some point; timing is unknowable (not investment advice).

When finance leaders push for measurable savings and supply chain leaders prioritize continuity and resilience, technology adoption often gets caught in the middle. Procurement teams, operating with risk-averse cultures and outdated tools, face growing complexity while pressure mounts from both sides of the business. In this episode of the AI in Business podcast, Rob DeSantis — CEO and Co-founder of Arkestro, Co-founder of Ariba, and early LinkedIn executive — explains to Emerj CEO and Head of Research Daniel Faggella why AI represents more than incremental change for procurement. Instead of simply digitizing old workflows, AI enables re-imagined processes that deliver step-function value, often translating into 20 to 30 percent savings directly impacting earnings per share. Want to share your AI adoption story with executive peers? Click emerj.com/expert2 for more information and to be a potential future guest on the ‘AI in Business' podcast! If you've enjoyed or benefited from some of the insights of this episode, consider leaving us a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and let us know what you learned, found helpful, or liked most about this show! This episode is sponsored by Arkestro. Learn how brands work with Emerj and other Emerj Media options at emerj.com/ad1.

#SecurityConfidential #DarkRhiinoSecurityMaman Ibrahim is a cybersecurity and digital risk leader with over 20 years of experience helping organizations transform cybersecurity from a compliance task into a strategic advantage. As Principal Partner at EugeneZonda and Founder of Ginkgo Resilience, he has led secure digital transformations across industries like pharma, manufacturing, and business services, saving companies over £150 million through risk management and third-party oversight. A contributor to initiatives like the OWASP Top 10 Agentic AI Risks and the World Economic Forum's Cyber Resilience Compass, Maman is deeply involved in global cybersecurity organizations, including ISACA, CIISec, and the UK Cyber Security Council. Known for his facilitation-first approach, he helps executives align leadership and strategy to build cultures of cyber resilience. 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Mamon Ibrahim02:38 Maman's Journey11:29 Transforming Cybersecurity: Compliance to Strategic Advantage16:12 Understanding Risks in Cybersecurity18:46 Making Cybersecurity a Competitive Advantage22:07 The Role of the CISO in Modern Organizations27:12 The Importance of Asset Protection in Organizations29:10 Navigating Third-Party Risks in Cybersecurity32:48 The Role of Procurement in Cyber Resilience38:41 Understanding Agentic AI Risks47:48 Knowledge Sharing and Mentorship in Cybersecurity-----------------------------------------------------------------To learn more about Maman visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamane/To learn more about Dark Rhiino Security visit https://www.darkrhiinosecurity.com-----------------------------------------------------------------

Doctor Gen Meredith, Associate Professor with the Department of Public and Ecosystem Health at Cornell University, Associate Director of the Master of Public Health Program, and Director of Cornell's Health Impact Score, explains how their new Public Health Strategic Skills Guide can help professionals in public health navigate changes to their roles and build upon their existing skillsets; Nick Jakubowski, Chief Operating Officer at the Connecticut Department of Public Health, shares how his agency used PHIG funding to upgrade their procurement and grant management systems and deliver monies to the community more efficiently; on Wednesday, October 29th, ASTHO will hold art one of a two part series on The Importance of Environmental Health Preparedness and Response; and subscribe to Public Health Review Morning Edition to start each weekday morning with a daily dose of insight from public health leaders across the country.  ASTHO Blog: Tennessee and Connecticut Are Transforming Procurement and Grant Management Systems Cornell University: Enhancing Public Health Strategic Skills Guide ASTHO Webinar: Weathering the Storm: The Importance of Environmental Health Preparedness and Response Part I ASTHO Newscast: Public Health Review Morning Edition  

#SecurityConfidential #DarkRhiinoSecurityMaman Ibrahim is a cybersecurity and digital risk leader with over 20 years of experience helping organizations transform cybersecurity from a compliance task into a strategic advantage. As Principal Partner at EugeneZonda and Founder of Ginkgo Resilience, he has led secure digital transformations across industries like pharma, manufacturing, and business services, saving companies over £150 million through risk management and third-party oversight. A contributor to initiatives like the OWASP Top 10 Agentic AI Risks and the World Economic Forum's Cyber Resilience Compass, Maman is deeply involved in global cybersecurity organizations, including ISACA, CIISec, and the UK Cyber Security Council. Known for his facilitation-first approach, he helps executives align leadership and strategy to build cultures of cyber resilience. 00:00 Introduction to Cybersecurity and Mamon Ibrahim02:38 Maman's Journey11:29 Transforming Cybersecurity: Compliance to Strategic Advantage16:12 Understanding Risks in Cybersecurity18:46 Making Cybersecurity a Competitive Advantage22:07 The Role of the CISO in Modern Organizations27:12 The Importance of Asset Protection in Organizations29:10 Navigating Third-Party Risks in Cybersecurity32:48 The Role of Procurement in Cyber Resilience38:41 Understanding Agentic AI Risks47:48 Knowledge Sharing and Mentorship in Cybersecurity----------------------------------------------------------------To learn more about Maman visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/mamane/To learn more about Dark Rhiino Security visit https://www.darkrhiinosecurity.com

“There is no stagnancy in a supply relationship. Continuous improvement is the basis for that.” - Neji Issac, Global Category Manager, NOVA Chemicals Procurement often measures success in cost savings and contract terms, but today's business environment demands more.  As supplier markets consolidate and customer needs shift, procurement leaders must find new ways to bring value to the business, especially in categories that seem stagnant or constrained. In this Art of Procurement podcast episode, Neji Issac, Global Category Manager at NOVA Chemicals, shares a real-world case study that pushed the boundaries of traditional supplier relationships. Drawing on his global experience and recent doctoral research, Neji explains how identifying overlooked opportunities and challenging old assumptions can unlock efficiency and drive unexpected value. Whether you're facing a “take-it-or-leave-it” supplier market or searching for fresh levers to pull, Neji offers pragmatic strategies to reflect on. In this episode, Neji discusses: Rethinking supplier relationships in long-standing, strategic categories How to recognize and act on cultural and regional differences in supply approaches Turning overlooked assets (like spare land) into value-adding levers Why the “we win” approach beats traditional win-win thinking Ways to uncover what truly matters to your suppliers Links: Neji Isaac on LinkedIn Subscribe to This Week in Procurement Subscribe to Art of Procurement on YouTube  

Preview: General Blaine Holt discusses the Pentagon's push to double missile production for potential conflict, noting that US weapon stocks were depleted following aid to Ukraine. He emphasizes the critical need for procurement reform and securing domestic supply chains for materials like steel and aluminum. Holt also addresses the military's shift back to a "warrior ethos" away from "woke" culture, suggesting this change is already leading to honorable resignations and retirements among senior officers. 1958

HEADLINE: Inside the Den of Spies: Iran Visit and Confessions of an Arms Procurement ChiefAUTHOR: Craig Unger SUMMARY: While investigating in Iran, Craig Unger visited the former US Embassy, known as the Den of Spies, now a spy museum. He secured a brief meeting with Mohsen Rafighdoost, former head of arms procurement for Ayatollah Khomeini, who accidentally referenced meeting with Republicans—a statement Unger captured on video, lending credence to the secret deal. Retry JB