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
S01 E15 Sports Procurement Secrets: Lessons from The Jockey Club | Sachin Kotecha
How is Artificial Intelligence transforming procurement, and what does it take to succeed in one of the world's most dynamic industries?In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont sits down with Sachin Kotecha, Head of Procurement at The Jockey Club, for an insightful conversation on the future of procurement, supply chain management, leadership, and innovation. Sachin shares his unique career journey into procurement, explaining how the profession has evolved from a back-office function into a strategic driver of business success. Together, they explore the fast-paced world of sports procurement, where stakeholder expectations, event delivery, and operational excellence all play a critical role.The discussion dives into the growing impact of AI and digital technologies on procurement, highlighting how automation and data analytics are helping professionals make smarter decisions while reinforcing that technology should enhance—not replace—the human relationships that sit at the heart of successful procurement. Sachin also explains why balancing cost savings with long-term value creation is essential, how procurement teams can build stronger partnerships across an organisation, and why leadership, transparency, and quality data are becoming increasingly important in today's business landscape.Whether you're an experienced procurement professional, a supply chain leader, a business executive, or someone considering a career in procurement, this episode is packed with practical advice, industry insights, and valuable lessons on navigating change in an increasingly digital world. Sachin also shares his advice for newcomers to the profession, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, networking, curiosity, and finding a genuine passion for procurement.In this episode, you'll discover:• Sachin Kotecha's journey into procurement and supply chain• The unique challenges of procurement in the sports industry• How AI is transforming procurement and strategic sourcing• Why stakeholder management is key to procurement success• The importance of balancing cost, quality, and long-term value• How data and technology are shaping modern procurement decisions• Leadership lessons for procurement professionals• Career advice for anyone looking to enter the procurement industryChapters:00:00 – Introduction to Procurement Journey02:59 – Career Path and Experiences in Procurement06:09 – The Unique Aspects of Procurement in Sports09:00 – Excitement and Challenges in Modern Procurement11:47 – Balancing Cost, Value, and Stakeholder Expectations15:04 – The Role of Data and Leadership in Procurement17:59 – Technology and Human Interaction in Procurement21:08 – Advice for Newcomers in ProcurementIf you enjoyed this conversation, don't forget to Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications for more interviews with industry leaders, procurement experts, and supply chain professionals on CPA Perspective.#Procurement #SupplyChain #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #ProcurementLeadership #SupplyChainManagement #SportsBusiness #TheJockeyClub #DigitalTransformation #StakeholderManagement #CareerDevelopment #CPAPerspectiveIf 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 teamConnect 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.
S01 E14 Why Procurement Leaders Must Master AI & Governance | David Sinclair
How is AI changing procurement and what does it really take to create value beyond cost savings?In this episode of CPO Perspective, host Richard Beaumont sits down with David Sinclair, Group Head of Procurement at Robert Walters Recruitment, to explore the future of procurement, AI governance, leadership, and business transformation.David shares his unique career journey from the armed forces and management consultancy into procurement leadership, offering practical insights into how procurement professionals can stay relevant in a rapidly evolving business landscape.Together, they discuss why AI is transforming procurement, why governance is more important than ever, and how procurement teams can demonstrate measurable business value beyond traditional cost reduction.Whether you're a Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), procurement professional, supply chain leader, sourcing specialist, or simply interested in the future of AI in business, this conversation is packed with actionable insights.In this episode, you'll learn:How David Sinclair built a successful procurement careerThe real impact of AI on procurementWhy governance is critical when implementing AIHow procurement can demonstrate strategic business valueWhy cost savings are no longer enoughThe future of procurement roles and digital transformationSkills every aspiring procurement professional should developWhy procurement acts as the glue between business functionsKey takeaways:AI should enhance strategy, not replace it.Procurement leaders must balance innovation with governance.Business value extends far beyond savings.Organizational agility is becoming a competitive advantage.Enthusiasm, curiosity, and continuous learning are essential for success.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more conversations with leading procurement executives and industry experts.What role do you think AI will play in procurement over the next five years? Let us know in the comments below.#Procurement #ArtificialIntelligence #AI #ProcurementTransformation #DigitalTransformation #SupplyChain #Leadership #ChiefProcurementOfficer #CPO #ProcurementLeadership #BusinessTransformation #Governance #StrategicSourcing #ProcurementStrategy #Podcast #RichardBeaumont #DavidSinclairI 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 teamConnect 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.
S01 E13 From Tactical Buying to Strategic Procurement Leadership | Catherine Shields
In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard is joined by Katy Shields, Head of Indirect Procurement at Debenhams Group, for a wide-ranging conversation on the future of procurement, leadership, supplier relationships, and the growing role of AI in the procurement function.Katy shares her career journey from an apprenticeship near Disneyland Paris to leading indirect procurement in a major retail business, and explains how procurement has evolved from a tactical cost-saving function into a strategic business partner. The conversation explores how procurement leaders can build stronger stakeholder relationships, use technology to improve the user experience, and create long-term value with suppliers in an increasingly fast-moving market.If you work in procurement, sourcing, supply chain, supplier management, procurement transformation, or CPO leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights on how the function is changing and what skills matter most in the years ahead.In this episode, we cover:* Katy Shields’ journey into procurement and indirect sourcing* What it means to lead indirect procurement at Debenhams Group* How procurement has changed from a tactical function to a strategic one* Why relationship-building is becoming a key competitive advantage in procurement* The impact of AI, LLMs, and procurement technology on procurement teams* How procurement can improve stakeholder experience with better tools and processes* Why supplier relationships and negotiation resilience matter more than ever* Advice for young professionals starting a career in procurement* The future of procurement leadership in retail and beyondTopics discussed:Procurement leadership, indirect procurement, strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, procurement transformation, AI in procurement, LLMs in procurement, procurement technology, sourcing strategy, stakeholder management, negotiation strategy, retail procurement, CPO insights, procurement careers, supply chain leadership.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with procurement leaders, CPOs, and supply chain experts sharing practical insights on leadership, strategy, technology, and the future of the profession.#Procurement #IndirectProcurement #StrategicSourcing #SupplyChain #CPO #ProcurementLeadership #SupplierManagement #ProcurementTransformation #AIinProcurement #Sourcing #RetailProcurement #Negotiation #LeadershipProcurement 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.
S01 E12 Why Procurement is Becoming a Strategic Business Function | Paul Maras Hilling
How do you build a world-class procurement function from the ground up?In this episode of CPO Perspective, host Richard Beaumont sits down with Paul Maras Hilling, a procurement leader based in Vancouver, Canada, to discuss what it takes to build high-performing procurement teams in greenfield organisations.Paul shares his remarkable career journey from the UK to Canada, explaining how he has repeatedly transformed procurement from a transactional function into a strategic business partner across industries including telecommunications, aviation, engineering, retail, consulting, and marine construction.Together, they explore:* How to build a procurement function from scratch* Why greenfield organisations create unique leadership opportunities* Strategic sourcing in today's global economy* Managing tariffs, fuel costs, and supply chain uncertainty* Supplier relationship management and procurement maturity* Building stakeholder buy-in across the business* Procurement leadership, soft skills, and organisational change* Career advice for aspiring procurement professionalsPaul also explains why procurement is evolving beyond purchase orders and cost savings into one of the most strategic functions within modern organisations.Whether you're a Chief Procurement Officer, procurement professional, supply chain leader, or someone looking to build a career in strategic sourcing, this conversation is packed with practical insights and leadership lessons.Key Topics00:00 Introduction01:00 Paul's procurement journey04:30 Building procurement teams from scratch07:30 Greenfield vs established procurement functions10:30 Procurement maturity in Canada vs Europe13:00 Strategic sourcing in marine construction16:00 Leadership, stakeholder management & organisational change21:50 Career advice for future procurement leadersIf you enjoyed this episode, please like the video, leave your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more conversations with leading procurement and supply chain executives.Connect with Paul Maras Hilling on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/director-procurement-supplychain-mcips-scpm-6675b92/Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit Beaumont Procurement: https://beaumontprocurement.comAbout CPO PerspectiveProcurement has never had better tools, data, or analysis—yet when decisions are challenged, the hardest part is rarely technical. CPO Perspective explores what separates high-performing procurement teams from the rest: judgement, influence, and the ability to make decisions that stand up under real scrutiny.Hosted by Richard Beaumont—former Army Officer, McKinsey consultant, and Chief Procurement Officer—the podcast is for procurement professionals who want to move beyond operational efficiency and build the credibility, leadership, and ownership that earn genuine board-level trust.#Procurement #SupplyChain #StrategicSourcing #CPO #Leadership #ProcurementLeadership #SupplyChainManagement #SupplierManagement #ProcurementCareer #BusinessLeadership #Sourcing #Operations #SupplyChainStrategy #ProcurementTransformation #ChiefProcurementOfficer #AIInProcurement #DecisionMaking
S01 E11 From Rugby World Cup to Procurement Leadership | Chris Hill
How do you build a successful procurement career across sports, FMCG, and global brands?In this episode of *The CPO Perspective*, Richard Beaumont sits down with Chris Hill, Head of Procurement at Tails.com, to explore his remarkable journey from the Rugby World Cup and Twickenham Stadium to leadership roles at Asahi, SailGP, and Nestlé Purina's Tails.com.Chris shares valuable insights on procurement leadership, supplier partnerships, strategic sourcing, category management, and building high-performing teams. He also discusses how AI is transforming procurement, why strong supplier relationships remain essential, and what it takes to develop a successful career in today's rapidly evolving business environment.Whether you're a procurement professional, supply chain leader, CPO, or someone looking to accelerate your career, this conversation is packed with practical lessons and leadership advice.**In This Episode:**✅ Chris Hill's procurement career journey✅ From Rugby World Cup procurement to FMCG leadership✅ Building procurement functions from the ground up✅ AI's impact on procurement and supply chains✅ Strategic supplier relationships and partnerships✅ Procurement leadership and team development✅ Managing risk in global supply chains✅ Career advice for aspiring procurement professionals✅ Finding success through purpose and passion**Key Takeaway***"You'll be successful in the environments you're meant to be in."* — Chris HillIf you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share to support more conversations with procurement and supply chain leaders.Connect with Richard Beaumont on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/richardbeaumontVisit Beaumont Procurement: https://beaumontprocurement.com#Procurement #SupplyChain #CPO #ProcurementLeadership #StrategicSourcing #SupplierManagement #AIinProcurement #SupplyChainManagement #Leadership #CategoryManagement #ProcurementCareer #BusinessLeadership #TheCPOPerspective #ChrisHill #Tailscom #FMCG #DigitalTransformation #ProcurementStrategy #SupplierRelationships #ChiefProcurementOfficer
S01 E10 Procurement vs Cost Cutting: Creating Real Business Value | Sebastian Golby-Meek
In this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont speaks with Sebastian Golby-Meek, Group Head of Procurement at Go-Ahead. Sebastian shares his journey from a graduate trainee at London Underground to leading strategic procurement across multiple transport businesses.The conversation explores procurement leadership, supplier relationship management, sustainability, public procurement, strategic sourcing, contract management, stakeholder engagement, and the future of the procurement profession.You'll learn:✅ How Sebastian built a successful procurement career over 20 years✅ The importance of supplier collaboration and stakeholder management✅ Why procurement is about creating value—not just reducing costs✅ How sustainability is reshaping procurement strategy✅ Lessons from managing billion-pound transport procurements✅ The role of contract management in procurement success✅ Advice for procurement professionals looking to advance their careers✅ How procurement teams can deliver measurable business impactWhether you're a procurement manager, sourcing specialist, supply chain professional, CPO, or business leader, this episode offers practical insights into modern procurement and leadership.Guest: Sebastian Golby-MeekHost: Richard BeaumontConnect With Sebastian Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sebastian-golby-meek/#Procurement #SupplyChain #StrategicSourcing #ProcurementLeadership #SupplierManagement #ContractManagement #Sustainability #SupplyChainManagement #CPO #BusinessLeadership #ProcurementCareer #PublicProcurement #ProcurementStrategy #Leadership #BusinessGrowthprocurement, sustainability, leadership, career development, supplier collaboration, transport industry, commercial management, strategic procurement, public sector, Go AheadI 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 teamConnect 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.
S01 E09 Supply Chain Resilience and the Future of Procurement Leadership| Sonia Ruff
🎙️ CPO Perspective | Procurement Leadership, AI & Supply Chain ResilienceIn this episode of CPO Perspective, Richard Beaumont sits down with an experienced procurement leader to explore the biggest challenges facing procurement professionals today from supply chain disruption and geopolitical risk to AI, cybersecurity, and the future of procurement leadership.Drawing on real-world experiences across financial services, telecoms, energy, and cybersecurity, this conversation dives deep into what procurement leaders must do to build resilient, agile, and future-ready supply chains in an increasingly volatile world.One powerful example discussed is how a supplier order collided with Chinese New Year, halting production for three weeks highlighting why procurement can no longer rely solely on “just-in-time” thinking.In this episode, we explore:📦 Supply chain resilience and moving from just-in-time to just-in-case🌍 Geopolitical disruption and global procurement risk📡 The impact of the Telecoms Security Act and Huawei supply chain changes☁️ Nearshoring, cloud repatriation, and evolving infrastructure strategies🤖 Why AI is enhancing procurement leadership rather than replacing it🧠 The growing importance of critical thinking, resilience, curiosity, and ethics📈 How procurement teams can deliver value faster in uncertain marketsThis is a practical and insightful conversation for procurement professionals, supply chain leaders, CPOs, operations executives, and anyone interested in the future of business resilience and strategic sourcing.Key Takeaways:✔️ Smart buffer-building protects businesses from disruption✔️ Procurement, operations, and sales must stay aligned✔️ AI is increasing demand for human skills, not reducing it✔️ Data sovereignty and energy costs are reshaping infrastructure decisions✔️ Resilience and critical thinking are becoming essential career skills🔔 Enjoyed the episode?Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more conversations with procurement leaders, CPOs, and industry experts sharing real-world insights and strategies.#Procurement #SupplyChain #AI #Cybersecurity #Leadership #ProcurementLeadership #SupplyChainManagement #CPO #BusinessStrategy #Telecoms #ArtificialIntelligence #RiskManagement #CPOPerspectiveI 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 teamConnect 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.
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 careersKey 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 ProfessionalsI 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 teamConnect 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.
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 sourcingKey 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 ProfessionalsI 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 teamConnect 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.
S01 E06 Leadership Lessons From a Global Procurement Expert | Amit Katiyar
🎙️ CPO Perspective | Amit Katiyar on Procurement Leadership, AI & Building TrustIn 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 professionalsA 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 teamConnect 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.
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 #TheBusinessSpotlightI 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 teamConnect 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.
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
S01 E03 How AI is Changing Procurement Jobs Forever | Stephen Day
Discover how AI is reshaping procurement, leadership, and the future of work in this insightful episode of the CPO Perspective.In this episode, Richard Beaumont sits down with Stephen Day from Kantar to explore the evolution of procurement, the impact of AI and agentic technology, and what it takes to succeed as a modern procurement leader.Stephen shares his journey from Rolls-Royce Aerospace to leading procurement at Kantar, offering real-world lessons on career growth, resilience, and adapting to change across industries including telecoms, publishing, and market intelligence.They also dive deep into:How AI and agentic systems are transforming procurement processesWhy data ownership is critical for procurement successThe future of procurement jobs and skills in an AI-driven worldThe importance of curiosity, learning, and adaptabilityLeadership lessons from decades of global experienceIf you're in procurement, supply chain, or business leadership, this conversation gives you practical insights into navigating change and staying ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations with global procurement leaders.#Procurement #AI #SupplyChain #Leadership #DigitalTransformation #CPO #BusinessStrategy #FutureOfWork
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 successThis 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
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 sitsConnect 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 teamConnect 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.