Procurement Evolution: From Industry to Consultancy with James Ball #96

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews James Ball, Associate Director at Infosys Portland.

James discusses the differences between working in industry and working in consultancy in the procurement field. 

James shares his insights based on his 25 years of experience in procurement, with 15 years in industry and the last 10 years in consultancy. 

He discusses the differences in thought processes, responsibilities and timeframes between the two roles, and explores the concept of adaptive procurement transformation and the evolving role of procurement in organisations.

This episode of Talent Talks covers…

●      Working in industry and working in consultancy in procurement have significant differences in thought processes, responsibilities and timeframes.

●      In industry, procurement professionals focus on long-term strategies, team well-being, stakeholder engagement, policies, processes and category plans. In consultancy, they focus on project-based work, specific work streams, and achieving outcomes for clients.

●      Procurement is evolving to become its own profit centre, with a focus on adding value to the business and digitalisation.

●      The skills required for modern-day procurement professionals include adaptability, business partnering, technology proficiency and a learning mindset.

●      Consultancy in procurement has experienced double-digit growth and continues to be in demand, with organisations using consultancies for transformation projects and as a flexible resource.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of James Ball

01:25 The Differences Between Working in Industry and Consultancy in Procurement

11:46 Adaptive Procurement Transformation: Making Procurement Relevant

16:36 The Evolving Role of Procurement in Organisations

32:01 The Growth and Demand for Consultancy in Procurement