//podcastplus.net/feed/talent-talks-podcast~380a0e6d The Talent Talks Podcast provides regular insights and guidance to procurement and supply chain professionals. Host, Martin Smith interviews CPO's within large corporations and brands in the UK such as John Lewis, Mars, Babcock International, Managing Directors of procurement specialist companies including as Procurement Excellence and Embedded IT as well as thought-leaders and authors from the sector. Martin Smith, founder of Talent Drive is a specialist procurement and supply chain recruiter. He uses his network and expertise to provide insightful, thought provoking discussions, as well as providing tips on building your own career in the industry. The podcast is just one area of #projectprocurement; Martin's network of like-minded procurement professionals including webinars, content and events. Register your email to find out about our next meet-up and get involved: https://bit.ly/talenttalksmailinglist We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and do please reach out if you'd like to be a guest; martin@talentdrive.co.uk. All links and references at https://talentdrive.co.uk/ Tue, 15 Sep 2026 02:35:01 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/17035658-marching-forward-ben-farrell-s-mission-to-modernise-global-procurement.mp3 On this episode, Ben Farrell MBE, discusses his journey from a 23-year military career to becoming the CEO of CIPS.  He shares insights on leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the challenges and opportunities in the procurement profession.  Ben emphasises the need for CIPS to evolve and better represent procurement professionals globally, while also highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment for career development in procurement.  They explore the challenges and opportunities facing procurement professionals today, particularly in the context of global supply chains and the integration of AI. Additionally, the conversation touches on Ben’s involvement with the Invictus Games Foundation. Some of the key moments during this podcast include: Ben Farrell joined CIPS to drive change in procurement. Human emotion plays a crucial role in leadership effectiveness. Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging but rewarding. CIPS ... Thu, 01 May 2025 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/17035658-marching-forward-ben-farrell-s-mission-to-modernise-global-procurement.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16448816-the-future-of-nhs-procurement-challenges-leadership-and-patient-outcomes-with-richard-evans.mp3 In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Richard Evans, Executive Commercial Director for NHS Supply Chain.  Richard shares valuable insights from his extensive career in procurement, discussing his transition from consultancy to the NHS, the importance of purpose in his work, and the challenges faced by the NHS Supply Chain.  He emphasises the need for collaboration, effective team management, and the evolving landscape of procurement, particularly in the healthcare sector.  Richard also reflects on his career and the skills he values in procurement talent, concluding with quickfire questions about his inspirations and views on the future of procurement. Takeaways Collaboration and people management are key to successful procurement. Integrating previously separate organisations into one cohesive unit has been a challenge for the NHS Supply Chain. Value-based procurement is essential for improving patient outcomes. Richard advocates for a people-first approach in leadership. Adapt... Thu, 30 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16448816-the-future-of-nhs-procurement-challenges-leadership-and-patient-outcomes-with-richard-evans.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16427929-leading-through-crisis-procurement-in-a-startup-world-with-fraser-mcbeth.mp3 On this episode, Fraser McBeth, Procurement Director at Volta Trucks, shares his journey from working in established OEMs to leading procurement in a startup environment.  He discusses the unique challenges faced during the transition, particularly during the company's bankruptcy, and how he navigated these difficult times while maintaining team morale and supplier relationships.  Fraser emphasises the importance of building a high-performance culture, adapting to technological changes, and fostering open communication within the team.  He reflects on the lessons learned throughout this journey and offers insights for others considering a similar path in the startup world. Takeaways Startups require a different mindset and approach than established companies. Navigating cash flow is crucial in a startup environment. Building strong supplier relationships can provide access to valuable technology. Creating a high-performance culture involves continuous improvement and engagem... Thu, 16 Jan 2025 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16427929-leading-through-crisis-procurement-in-a-startup-world-with-fraser-mcbeth.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16299886-talent-talks-live-2024-how-al-is-shaping-the-future-of-procurement.mp3 On this episode of Talent Talks, Samuel De Frates, Kathryn Thompson and Bilal Shaykh discuss the transformative role of AI in procurement, exploring its potential to enhance supplier selection, risk management, and overall efficiency.  They delve into the challenges faced by procurement professionals, the risks associated with AI implementation, and the importance of addressing resistance to change.  The conversation also highlights the evolving skills required for procurement professionals in the age of AI and the future trends that will shape the industry. Takeaways AI can significantly improve supplier selection and risk management. Using AI as a co-pilot rather than an autonomous decision maker is crucial. Automating simple tasks can free up resources for more complex challenges. Choosing the right technology to implement is critical for success. Fixing basic processes is necessary before adopting new technologies. Talent and skills gaps are major impediments to AI adoption in ... Thu, 19 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16299886-talent-talks-live-2024-how-al-is-shaping-the-future-of-procurement.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16232550-continuous-learning-and-adaptation-steps-to-success-from-john-butcher-just-eat.mp3 On this episode, Martin Smith interviews John Butcher, the Procurement Director at Just Eat Takeaway.  John shares his journey of building a procurement team from scratch, the challenges he faced, and the importance of hiring the right talent.  He discusses the evolving procurement landscape, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the impact of technology, particularly AI, on the industry.  John emphasises the need for agility in procurement and offers valuable insights for aspiring leaders in the field. Takeaways Building a procurement team requires a blend of internal and external talent. Cultural fit and attitude are crucial in talent acquisition. Procurement can add value beyond just cost savings. Emotional intelligence is becoming increasingly important in procurement roles. Delegation is essential for effective leadership. Technology, including AI, is transforming the procurement landscape. Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success in procurement... Thu, 12 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16232550-continuous-learning-and-adaptation-steps-to-success-from-john-butcher-just-eat.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16205296-cultural-adaptability-and-soft-skills-a-new-era-in-procurement-with-canberk-incekara.mp3 In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Canberk Incekara, Head of Indirect Procurement at OCS. Canberk shares his extensive experience in procurement and supply chains, discussing the evolution of the industry, the importance of understanding the end-to-end value chain, and the challenges of navigating external factors like COVID and Brexit.  He emphasises the need for a balance between globalisation and local support, the significance of soft skills in talent management, and the changing expectations of the new generation in the workforce.  The conversation also touches on cultural adaptability in negotiations, with Canberk discussing the differences between Turkey and the UK. He also discusses the importance of retaining talent through job satisfaction and growth opportunities.   Takeaways   · Canberk’s journey reflects the interconnectedness of procurement and supply chain. · Understanding the total cost of ownership is crucial in procurement. · COVID and Brexit have res... Thu, 05 Dec 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16205296-cultural-adaptability-and-soft-skills-a-new-era-in-procurement-with-canberk-incekara.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16176173-breaking-barriers-diversity-soft-skills-and-rebranding-procurement-with-nikki-wright.mp3 On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin sits down with Nikki Wright, Director of Operations at 10X Banking, as she shares her extensive experience in procurement and operations across various industries, particularly in the banking sector.    She discusses the complexities of navigating procurement within a heavily regulated environment, the balance between compliance and agility, and the evolution of procurement roles.    Nikki emphasises the importance of diversity, soft skills, and the need to rebrand procurement to overcome negative perceptions.    She also highlights the commitment of 10X Banking to sustainability and its status as a B Corp certified organisation.    The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of procurement, the impact of inflation on supplier relationships, and the necessity of digitalisation in procurement processes.    Nikki shares personal insights about her career journey, inspirations, and the importance of taking ownership of ... Thu, 28 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16176173-breaking-barriers-diversity-soft-skills-and-rebranding-procurement-with-nikki-wright.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16127214-conscious-choices-navigating-mental-health-with-carl-ferrand.mp3 In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Carl Ferrand, Head of Procurement at Specsavers.  Carl shares his journey into procurement, emphasising the importance of people in leadership and the need to stand out when applying for positions. He discusses the evolution of procurement, highlighting the increasing responsibilities and skills required in the field, and offers valuable advice for aspiring procurement leaders, encouraging curiosity and consistency in their careers.  The conversation also touches on the role of LinkedIn in professional identity and community building within procurement. Takeaways Carl Ferrand's journey into procurement was a conscious choice. Leadership in procurement should focus on people and their well-being. The evolution of procurement has led to increased responsibilities and skills. Aspiring leaders should embrace curiosity and enjoy their work. Building relationships is crucial for success in procurement. Consistency in performance is key to ... Thu, 21 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16127214-conscious-choices-navigating-mental-health-with-carl-ferrand.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16050969-listening-in-leadership-how-to-build-trust-in-procurement-with-jonathan-wharfe.mp3 On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin talks to Jonathan Wharfe, Director of Procurement and Commercial Operations at Transport for London. Jonathan shares insights from his extensive career in procurement. He emphasises the importance of building communities, listening to stakeholders and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.  Jonathan discusses the evolution of procurement practices, the impact of AI and the need to address geopolitical challenges.  He also highlights the significance of talent management and the necessity of changing the narrative around procurement to attract new talent.   Takeaways   ·       Listening is crucial for building trust in teams. ·      Culture should be developed collaboratively with teams. ·      Dyslexia can be a unique advantage in problem-solving. ·      AI will enhance procurement processes and decision-making. ·       Procurement must adapt to geopolitical challenges. ·       The narra... Thu, 07 Nov 2024 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/16050969-listening-in-leadership-how-to-build-trust-in-procurement-with-jonathan-wharfe.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/15971483-how-to-make-money-and-be-a-force-for-good-4c-associates-b-corp-story-with-suzanna-hinnell.mp3 On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin speaks with Suzanna Hinnell, Operations and Marketing Director at 4C Associates, about B Corp and its impact on sustainable business practices.  They discuss the certification process, the importance of ethical business, and how B Corp helps attract talent and engage clients. Suzanna shares her personal passion for sustainability and how businesses can implement sustainable practices to help create a better future. The Key Areas of Conversation in this Podcast Episode with Suzanna Hinnell were; + B Corp certification focuses on sustainable and responsible business practices. + 4C Associates aims to be a force for good in the consultancy space. + The certification process requires significant documentation and policy implementation. + Sustainable travel practices are essential for reducing carbon footprints in consultancy. + Engaging employees in sustainability initiatives enhances team cohesion. + B Corp certification helps attract tal... Thu, 24 Oct 2024 04:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/877084/episodes/15971483-how-to-make-money-and-be-a-force-for-good-4c-associates-b-corp-story-with-suzanna-hinnell.mp3