Richard Beaumont

•  Assessing the role of data analytics and technology in elevating procurement's influence to enable more informed business decisions. 
• Considering the leadership qualities and talent development initiatives required to transition procurement professionals into strategic business leaders. 
• Exploring the ways in which procurement can contribute directly to the company's growth and profitability. 

Following the panel you will then break out into a small group roundtables - Benchmark with your senior-level peers and have your pressing questions answered by speakers 

• Should AI be seen as an ally or a concern? 
• Should digitalisation be considered a requirement and not just a desire? 
• What is the right balance between human expertise and AI-driven decision-making in procurement processes, including supplier selection, negotiations, and risk management? 

• Examining how procurement's access to suppliers can motivate sustainability efforts within the organisation. 
• Exploring the ways of reconciling sustainability demands with cost-cutting expectations in a fiercely competitive, cost-pressured market. 
• Considering how geopolitical factors influence supply chains and how sustainability initiatives intersect with inflation-related challenges.