Powering Procurement

Atamis

Welcome to Powering Procurement, a podcast by Atamis, where we delve into the rapidly evolving world of procurement. In each episode, we feature in-depth conversations with industry leaders, technology innovators, and procurement professionals who share their insights on how digital technologies, AI, and data-driven decision-making are shaping the procurement landscape. Join us to gain actionable strategies and tools to enhance your procurement processes, reduce costs, and drive better decisions within your organisation.

  1. 02/12/2025

    Reforming UK Procurement: Insights from the Cabinet Office with Lindsay Maguire

    The UK’s biggest procurement transformation in a generation is now live - but what does it really mean in practice? In this episode of Powering Procurement, host Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch sit down with Lindsay Maguire, Deputy Director for Procurement Reform at the UK Cabinet Office, to unpack the thinking, ambition and real-world impact behind the new Procurement Act. Lindsay has played a central role in reshaping the UK’s post-Brexit procurement regime, championing transparency, flexibility, fair competition, and better access for SMEs. Her work spans everything from designing the new central digital platform to shifting evaluation from MEAT to MAT, embedding social value, and modernising how public bodies engage with markets. Together, Sian, Gareth and Lindsay explore: How the Procurement Act was shaped, and why flexibility and proportionality matter What early adopters are already doing differently - and the innovations emerging across the UK The rise of pre-market engagement and why it’s transforming supplier relationships The power of transparency: from pipelines to KPIs and contract performance Why culture, capability and systems are just as important as legislation How the new regime aims to open doors for SMEs and drive fairer competition Insightful, practical and future-focused, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating - or curious about - the new procurement landscape.

    40 min
  2. 07/10/2025

    How Procurement Can Deliver Social and Environmental Value, with Harinder Bansal

    In this episode of Powering Procurement, host Sian Lloyd is joined by Harinder Bansal, Head of Procurement and Third Party Risk Management at Motability Operations. Harinder has built his career across retail, pharma, consulting and now one of the UK’s largest fleet operators, supporting more than 800,000 disabled customers. Beyond procurement and risk, he also leads Motability’s Reach Network, championing equity and inclusion, and serves as Chair of Steps Charity. His work sits at the intersection of purpose, innovation and sustainability. Together, Sian and Harinder explore how procurement teams can drive genuine environmental and social impact, from embedding ESG into supplier relationships to championing circular economy practices. Harinder also shares candid insights on setting ambitious net zero targets, building psychological safety in teams, and why diversifying experience beyond procurement can strengthen leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Motability is using its scale to embed ESG and lead the way on sustainability. Practical approaches for balancing cost pressures with long-term social and environmental value. The role of data in managing Scope 3 emissions and shaping supplier transparency. Why networks like Reach matter for building inclusive workplaces. How charitable and community work can shape leadership style. If you’re interested in the future of procurement as a driver of change - not just savings - this episode is a must-listen.

    39 min
  3. How Admiral Transformed Procurement Into a Strategic Powerhouse with Chris McLellan

    15/04/2025

    How Admiral Transformed Procurement Into a Strategic Powerhouse with Chris McLellan

    In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Gareth Burch sit down with Chris McLellan, Group Head of Procurement at Admiral Group, Wales’ only FTSE 100 company. Together, they explore critical challenges in modern procurement risk management. What You’ll Learn How to balance speed and due diligence through effective supplier segmentation and risk classificationWhy technology platforms are transforming supplier due diligence and risk monitoringThe strategic approach to managing cybersecurity risks through supplier assessment and data protectionHow to develop effective contingency plans for critical suppliers using business continuity planningHow procurement teams can leverage data and technology to anticipate and mitigate global supply chain disruptionsWith over 25 years of experience spanning both public and private sectors, Chris has led significant procurement initiatives across organizations, including Cardiff Council and Atebion Solutions. His expertise in supplier governance, contract strategy, and procurement resilience has been particularly valuable in navigating today's complex risk landscape. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: 13:46 - Leveraging Technology to Streamline Risk AssessmentProcurement can't navigate today's complex landscape with outdated maps. Chris highlights the importance of using advanced technology as procurement's GPS, guiding teams swiftly through risk assessments. From AI-driven due diligence platforms to real-time supplier risk analytics, these digital tools help teams stay agile, reduce administrative burden, and shift the focus from reactive troubleshooting to proactive risk management. 18:04 - Cybersecurity Resilience in ProcurementCybersecurity isn't a luxury anymore; it's procurement's oxygen mask in turbulent times. Chris outlines Admiral's rigorous approach to supplier cybersecurity, highlighting proactive assessments, supplier transparency, and shared accountability. Just as airline pilots meticulously check their aircraft systems before takeoff, procurement teams must carefully vet suppliers' cyber defenses. 25:30 - Managing Geopolitical Risks and Supply Chain UncertaintyGeopolitical events are storms on the horizon. Teams must remain vigilant, continually monitoring global developments and adjusting their sourcing strategies accordingly. Chris recommends dual sourcing, strategic partnerships, and sophisticated data analytics to weather these challenges. Just as expert sailors constantly adjust their sails to shifting winds, procurement must pivot rapidly and strategically to maintain stability, ensuring the organization stays on course despite global uncertainty. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/Chris Mclellan on LinkedInAdmiral Group WebsitePowering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

    46 min
  4. The 4 Ps That Will Future-Proof Your Procurement with Milind Tailor

    01/04/2025

    The 4 Ps That Will Future-Proof Your Procurement with Milind Tailor

    In this episode of Powering Procurement, hosts Sian Lloyd and Travis Crouch sit down with Milind Tailor, Global Head of Resale Products and Services Procurement at Diebold Nixdorf. Together, they navigate "The 4 P's of Procurement" framework: Purpose, People, Planet, and Performance, as well as how AI, sustainability, and skill transformation are reshaping the function. What You’ll Learn: How to elevate procurement from cost-saving to strategic value creationWhy procurement professionals need to develop new skills in orchestration, digital fluency, change leadership, and influenceThe "Total Impact Mindset" framework for measuring procurement successWhy sustainability should be viewed as an insurance policy rather than a cost centerHow AI is freeing procurement teams from transactional tasks to focus on strategic value creationMilind is a thought leader in AI, supplier collaboration, and the future of procurement. With an engineering background and a master's in supply chain and operations, he has transformed procurement from a traditional cost-saving function into a strategic powerhouse. In his role, Milind oversees operations across 60+ countries, managing $1Bn+ in spend while driving efficiency, resilience, and innovation. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out on future episodes. Also, rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify, we appreciate all feedback from our listeners. Episode Highlights: 15:26 - The Four Ps of ProcurementProcurement's role is no longer just about cutting costs; it's about creating real business value. Milind introduces the Four Ps of Procurement: Purpose, People, Planet, and Performance. Like a flight crew ensuring a safe journey, procurement must work in harmony across departments to guide the business toward long-term success. That means shifting from being reactive cost controllers to proactive strategic copilots, championing innovation, sustainability, and growth while staying aligned with the company's bigger goals. 29:59 - What Future-Ready Talent Looks LikeProcurement professionals need more than just the basics. Negotiation and supplier management still matter, but the future-ready talent goes further. They're collaborators, change leaders, tech-savvy orchestrators, and skilled influencers. It's about synchronizing moving parts, understanding and applying new technologies, leading transformation, and inspiring others. Organizations can build this talent by combining apprenticeships, internal development, and job rotations that let people explore, grow, and shine across the business. 37:34 - Sustainability vs. Business PressureProcurement has a critical role to play in sustainability, but it's not without challenges. The key shift? Stop thinking in terms of just cost, and start thinking in terms of impact. Sustainable choices might seem expensive upfront, but they're an investment in long-term resilience. To make it work, we need better visibility across the entire supply chain and that means leveraging tech like AI, blockchain, and ESG dashboards. Just as important, align procurement KPIs with sustainability goals. Episode Resources: Powering Procurement is brought to you by https://atamis.co.uk/How Atamis is supporting public bodies through to TPP go live https://atamis.co.uk/public-procurement-reform/Milind Tailor on LinkedInDiebold Nixdorf WebsitePowering Procurement is handcrafted by our friends over at: fame.so

    44 min

À propos

Welcome to Powering Procurement, a podcast by Atamis, where we delve into the rapidly evolving world of procurement. In each episode, we feature in-depth conversations with industry leaders, technology innovators, and procurement professionals who share their insights on how digital technologies, AI, and data-driven decision-making are shaping the procurement landscape. Join us to gain actionable strategies and tools to enhance your procurement processes, reduce costs, and drive better decisions within your organisation.