The CPO Perspective

Richard Beaumont

Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective brings together senior procurement leaders to share the wisdom, trade-offs, and real pressure moments that define decision-making at the top of the profession. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — each episode is a peer-level conversation exploring judgement, credibility, and the kind of thinking that holds up under board-level scrutiny.

Episodes

  1. S01 E08 The Modern CPO: Balancing Strategy and Firefighting | With Kasper Vestergaard Larsen

    4d ago

    S01 E08 The Modern CPO: Balancing Strategy and Firefighting | With Kasper Vestergaard Larsen

    What does the future of procurement look like in the age of AI? In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont sits down with Kasper Larsen to discuss how artificial intelligence is transforming procurement, the growing importance of soft skills, and how organizations can stay competitive in a rapidly changing business environment. Kasper shares his inspiring journey from wanting to become a mechanic to leading procurement at the executive level. He explains how AI is reshaping procurement operations, why professionals should approach AI strategically, and how generational differences influence technology adoption in the workplace. This conversation also explores talent management, diversity in teams, risk management, compliance, and practical career advice for the next generation of procurement professionals. Whether you're a procurement leader, supply chain professional, CPO, or someone interested in business strategy and AI, this episode delivers valuable insights on the future of procurement. Topics Covered: AI in procurementThe evolving role of the CPOGenerational differences in technology adoptionSoft skills and leadership developmentProcurement strategy and risk managementTalent management and diversityCareer advice for procurement professionalsBalancing operational challenges with innovationThe future of procurement careers Key Quotes: “Do not trust AI 100%.”“AI is like a super buyer.”“Diversity breeds innovation.”“Motivation leads to performance.” Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Kasper Lassen01:04 Kasper's Journey to CPO02:52 Current Trends in Procurement03:11 The Role of AI in Procurement07:14 Generational Perspectives on AI12:06 Adopting AI in Procurement14:42 Soft Skills in Procurement17:09 Balancing Firefighting and Development20:33 Advice for New Procurement Professionals I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Richard and The CPO Perspective podcast team Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit the Beaumont Procurement website here: https://beaumontprocurement.com #thecpoperspective #richardbeaumont #procurementleadership #cpo #procurementjudgement #decisionmaking #strategicprocurement #procurementtransformation #chiefprocurementofficer #supplychainleadership #procurementstrategy #aiinprocurement #procurementprofessionals #businessleadership #influenceatwork Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective explores what actually separates high-performing procurement teams from the rest: judgement, influence, and the ability to make decisions that hold up under real scrutiny. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — this podcast is for procurement professionals who want to move beyond operational efficiency and build the kind of credibility, leadership, and ownership that earns genuine board-level trust.

    22 min
  2. S01 E07  How Digitalization is Transforming Procurement Teams | Kitiphong Tuesataya

    May 27

    S01 E07 How Digitalization is Transforming Procurement Teams | Kitiphong Tuesataya

    Discover how procurement is evolving in the digital age with Kitiphong Tuesataya, Chief Procurement Officer at Bernina Thailand, on this episode of CPO Perspective. Kitiphong shares insights from his journey across multiple industries and explains how digital transformation, generational dynamics, and strategic leadership are reshaping procurement and supply chain management. From managing Gen Y and Gen Z teams to balancing speed with relationship-building, this conversation explores the real-world challenges procurement leaders face today. Kitiphong also discusses contingency planning, adapting to global disruptions, and why embracing uncertainty is critical for future procurement professionals. Whether you're a procurement leader, supply chain professional, or someone interested in digital transformation and leadership, this episode delivers valuable industry insights and practical career advice. Topics Covered: Digital transformation in procurementSupply chain leadership strategiesManaging Gen Y and Gen Z teamsProcurement challenges and contingency planningTeam collaboration and innovationCareer advice for procurement professionalsFuture trends in procurement and sourcing Key Quotes: “I want to be the one in the middle.”“We cannot avoid the situation.”“Welcome to the Pokemon World.” Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Kitiphong Tuesataya and His Journey03:50 The Digitalization Challenge in Procurement08:02 Generational Dynamics in the Workplace11:54 Balancing Speed and Relationships in Digital Transformation18:02 Current State of Procurement and Future Outlook21:03 Advice for New Procurement Professionals I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Richard and The CPO Perspective podcast team Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit the Beaumont Procurement website here: https://beaumontprocurement.com #thecpoperspective #richardbeaumont #procurementleadership #cpo #procurementjudgement #decisionmaking #strategicprocurement #procurementtransformation #chiefprocurementofficer #supplychainleadership #procurementstrategy #aiinprocurement #procurementprofessionals #businessleadership #influenceatwork Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective explores what actually separates high-performing procurement teams from the rest: judgement, influence, and the ability to make decisions that hold up under real scrutiny. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — this podcast is for procurement professionals who want to move beyond operational efficiency and build the kind of credibility, leadership, and ownership that earns genuine board-level trust.

    45 min
  3. S01 E06  Leadership Lessons From a Global Procurement Expert | Amit Katiyar

    May 20

    S01 E06 Leadership Lessons From a Global Procurement Expert | Amit Katiyar

    🎙️ CPO Perspective | Amit Katiyar on Procurement Leadership, AI & Building Trust In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont sits down with Amit Katiyar for an insightful conversation about procurement leadership, global supply chains, quality management, and the evolving role of AI in procurement. Amit shares his journey from studying chemical engineering to becoming a senior procurement leader, reflecting on the lessons, mistakes, and experiences that shaped his career along the way. Throughout the discussion, Amit explains why procurement is far more than cost-saving — it’s about building trust, maintaining quality, managing relationships, and creating long-term value across the organization. In this conversation, we explore: 💡 Amit Katiyar’s journey into procurement leadership📈 Why mistakes are essential for growth and learning🏭 The importance of quality and protecting brand trust🌍 Navigating global procurement and supply chain challenges🤖 How AI is transforming procurement processes🧠 Why human insight still matters in an AI-driven world🤝 The importance of relationships in procurement success⚖️ Leadership, trust, and long-term organizational stability🚀 Career advice for young procurement professionals A key theme throughout the episode is that procurement is ultimately about people — balancing technology, quality, strategy, and relationships to create sustainable business success. This is a valuable conversation for procurement professionals, supply chain leaders, sourcing specialists, and anyone interested in leadership, AI, and the future of global trade. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Richard and The CPO Perspective podcast team Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit the Beaumont Procurement website here: https://beaumontprocurement.com #thecpoperspective #richardbeaumont #procurementleadership #cpo #procurementjudgement #decisionmaking #strategicprocurement #procurementtransformation #chiefprocurementofficer #supplychainleadership #procurementstrategy #aiinprocurement #procurementprofessionals #businessleadership #influenceatwork Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective explores what actually separates high-performing procurement teams from the rest: judgement, influence, and the ability to make decisions that hold up under real scrutiny. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — this podcast is for procurement professionals who want to move beyond operational efficiency and build the kind of credibility, leadership, and ownership that earns genuine board-level trust.

    28 min
  4. S01 E05  Why Procurement Is the Heartbeat of Modern Business | With Odinaka Okwudinma

    May 13

    S01 E05 Why Procurement Is the Heartbeat of Modern Business | With Odinaka Okwudinma

    In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont speaks with Odinaka Okwudinma about the evolving role of procurement in today’s fast-changing business environment. From his career journey to the growing impact of AI in procurement, Odinaka shares practical insights on how procurement professionals can move beyond operational tasks and become true strategic partners within their organizations. The conversation highlights how business acumen, strong relationships, and adaptability are essential for driving real value  especially when it comes to influencing P&L, ESG considerations, and long-term business success. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: How AI is transforming procurement and automating routine workWhy procurement is key to solving core business challengesThe importance of business acumen in impacting P&LHow to build and manage strong stakeholder relationshipsThe growing importance of ESG in procurement strategyKey challenges and opportunities in today’s procurement landscapePractical advice for young procurement professionals 🚀 A key theme throughout this episode is evolution  procurement professionals must continuously learn, adapt, and communicate in the language of business to remain relevant and impactful. 🔑 Keywords:procurement, AI in procurement, supply chain, business acumen, ESG, procurement strategy, stakeholder management, procurement leadership, P&L, digital transformation, career growth 🔔 Enjoyed the episode?Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more expert insights from procurement leaders and industry professionals. #Procurement #AI #SupplyChain #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #DigitalTransformation #ESG #CareerGrowth #CPO #TheBusinessSpotlight I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Richard and The CPO Perspective podcast team Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit the Beaumont Procurement website here: https://beaumontprocurement.com #thecpoperspective #richardbeaumont #procurementleadership #cpo #procurementjudgement #decisionmaking #strategicprocurement #procurementtransformation #chiefprocurementofficer #supplychainleadership #procurementstrategy #aiinprocurement #procurementprofessionals #businessleadership #influenceatwork Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective explores what actually separates high-performing procurement teams from the rest: judgement, influence, and the ability to make decisions that hold up under real scrutiny. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — this podcast is for procurement professionals who want to move beyond operational efficiency and build the kind of credibility, leadership, and ownership that earns genuine board-level trust.

    28 min
  5. S01 E04  The 3 Pillars of Procurement Every CPO Must Master | Frederic Lourdin

    May 6

    S01 E04 The 3 Pillars of Procurement Every CPO Must Master | Frederic Lourdin

    In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont sits down with Frederic Lourdin, Head of Procurement at Panasonic Healthcare, to explore the rapidly evolving world of procurement and supply chain leadership. With over 25 years of global experience, Frederic shares deep insights into how procurement has transformed  from a cost-focused function to a strategic driver of business value. They dive into the three key pillars of procurement and discuss how professionals can navigate today’s complex landscape by balancing technology, stakeholder relationships, and cultural dynamics. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: The three pillars of procurement: basic, intermediate, and advancedHow stakeholder management drives procurement successThe growing role of technology in procurement strategyWhy procurement teams must avoid working in silosThe importance of cultural awareness in global supply chainsHow to balance digital tools with human interactionKey traits of future leaders, including agility and adaptability 🚀 A key theme throughout this conversation is agility in procurement  and why the ability to listen, learn, and adapt is more important than ever for modern CPOs and supply chain professionals. 🔑 Keywords:procurement, CPO, supply chain, stakeholder management, procurement strategy, vendor management, healthcare procurement, agile procurement, procurement leadership, digital transformation, sourcing strategy 🔔 Enjoyed the episode?Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more expert conversations on procurement, leadership, and business strategy. #Procurement #CPO #SupplyChain #Leadership #ProcurementStrategy #DigitalTransformation #BusinessGrowth #VendorManagement #Healthcare #Agile

    25 min
  6. S01 E02 From Print Industry to Global Procurement Leader | Michael Norris

    Apr 22

    S01 E02 From Print Industry to Global Procurement Leader | Michael Norris

    What does it take to build a high-performing procurement function in a complex global business? In this episode of the CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont sits down with Michael Norris, Head of Procurement at TMS (part of DS Smith), to explore procurement leadership, career growth, and the evolving role of technology in procurement. With nearly three decades of experience, Michael shares his journey from the print and packaging industry to leading procurement transformation across 100+ markets. He discusses how strong foundations in process, commercial alignment, and risk management are critical to building a successful procurement function. In this conversation, you’ll learn: Why networking is the most powerful tool for career growthHow to build and scale a procurement function from the ground upThe importance of stakeholder management and communicationHow to simplify complex procurement strategies for business impactThe real role of AI in procurement and why caution mattersHow to balance process, data, and technology for long-term success This episode is packed with practical insights for procurement professionals, supply chain leaders, and anyone looking to grow their career in a fast-changing business environment. 🔔 Subscribe for more expert conversations with global procurement leaders. #Procurement #SupplyChain #Leadership #AI #BusinessStrategy #CPO #CareerGrowth #DigitalTransformation

    28 min
  7. Apr 15

    SE1E01 Why Procurement Needs to Stop Managing Spend and Start Shaping Decisions | With Rajbinder Kaur

    Why Procurement Needs to Stop Managing Spend and Start Shaping DecisionsIn this first episode of CPO Perspective, host Richard Beaumont sits down with Rajbinder Kaur, a senior procurement leader operating across a multi-site further education organisation in the public sector. Rajbinder brings a fascinating cross-disciplinary background — spanning law, finance, and procurement — and uses it to challenge the way most organisations think about the function. The conversation opens with a sharp observation that cuts to the heart of the profession: most organisations don't have a procurement problem, they have a decision problem.Rajbinder unpacks what she calls procurement as decision architecture — the idea that real value isn't unlocked at the point of purchase, but upstream, when procurement gets involved early enough to shape demand and influence outcomes before leverage is lost. From navigating stakeholder misalignment across decentralised organisations to AI's role in public procurement, the UK's new Procurement Act, and what it really takes to build a resilient team, this is a candid and thought-provoking opening episode for anyone working in or around the profession.Key takeaways: Most organisations don't have a procurement problem — they have a decision problem rooted in misaligned incentives, poor timing, and fragmented informationProcurement's biggest missed opportunity is being brought in too late, after decisions are made and leverage is already goneThe shift needs to be upstream — shaping demand and influencing outcomes before spend is locked inComplexity in multi-site organisations is an asset when structured correctly; decentralised insight only becomes inefficiency without coordinationStakeholder engagement is about alignment, not just communication — bridging finance (cost), operations (speed), and leadership (risk) into a shared decision frameworkAI works well in purchase-to-pay and tender drafting, but human judgement remains essential for evaluationThe UK Public Procurement Act is opening doors for SMEs but is still bedding in across organisationsThe strongest procurement leaders focus less on process and more on understanding how organisations think and where real influence sits Connect with Rajbinder Kaur on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajbikaurIf this episode resonated with you, subscribe to CPO Perspective for more honest conversations with procurement leaders navigating complexity, change, and the evolving role of the profession. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Richard and The CPO Perspective podcast team Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit the Beaumont Procurement website here: https://beaumontprocurement.com #thecpoperspective #richardbeaumont #procurementleadership #cpo #procurementjudgement #decisionmaking #strategicprocurement #procurementtransformation #chiefprocurementofficer #supplychainleadership #procurementstrategy #aiinprocurement #procurementprofessionals #businessleadership #influenceatwork Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective explores what actually separates high-performing procurement teams from the rest: judgement, influence, and the ability to make decisions that hold up under real scrutiny. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — this podcast is for procurement professionals who want to move beyond operational efficiency and build the kind of credibility, leadership, and ownership that earns genuine board-level trust.

    22 min

About

Procurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis — yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. The CPO Perspective brings together senior procurement leaders to share the wisdom, trade-offs, and real pressure moments that define decision-making at the top of the profession. Hosted by Richard Beaumont — former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer — each episode is a peer-level conversation exploring judgement, credibility, and the kind of thinking that holds up under board-level scrutiny.