Powering Procurement

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Tomos Lewis, Partner at Blake Morgan, who brings a grounded, real-world legal perspective to one of the most complex and evolving areas in the profession.Tomos’ journey into procurement law didn’t follow a typical path. From learning the basics the night before an interview to advising NHS England on nationally critical projects from day one, his story highlights just how dynamic and impactful this field can be.We explore what procurement law actually looks like in practice, beyond policy documents and theory. Tomos shares how legal and procurement teams work together across major public sector projects, and why early involvement is often the difference between smooth delivery and costly delays.The conversation dives into the Procurement Act 2023 and what it really means for organisations on the ground. From increased flexibility to new challenges around documentation, transparency, and capability, Tomos offers a clear and pragmatic view of how the changes are playing out.We also take a closer look at the Social Partnership and Public Procurement (Wales) Act and what it means for Welsh organisations, including the growing role of procurement in delivering wider social, environmental, and economic outcomes.AI is another key theme, with Tomos sharing where it can genuinely add value across the procurement lifecycle, and where the risks start to outweigh the benefits, particularly when it comes to evaluation and accountability.This episode is packed with insight for procurement professionals, leaders, and anyone navigating change in the sector. It is a reminder that procurement is not just a process to follow, but a powerful tool that, when used well, can drive meaningful impact.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Simon Brindle, Director of Commercial and Procurement at Welsh Government, to explore how procurement is evolving into one of the most powerful levers for public sector impact.With over 30 years’ experience across government, HM Treasury and the private sector, Simon brings a unique perspective on how procurement can go far beyond buying goods and services. From shaping major infrastructure decisions to driving social value, sustainability and economic growth, this conversation highlights the real influence procurement can have when it’s positioned at the heart of decision-making.We discuss:Why procurement is no longer just a transactional functionHow public sector spend can create jobs, drive innovation and support net zeroThe opportunities created by the new Procurement Act and evolving legislation in WalesHow digital transformation and AI are changing procurement teamsThe importance of having procurement at the top tableThe skills and mindset needed for the next generation of procurement professionalsSimon also shares practical examples from his career, including transforming funding models for schools in Wales and unlocking millions in value through smarter commercial thinking.This is a powerful conversation about influence, leadership and the opportunity procurement professionals have to shape outcomes long before a contract is signed.Because, as Simon puts it… procurement is where the magic happens.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Emma Briggs, Director of Procurement and Sustainability at Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing, to explore the evolving role of procurement in the housing sector and why the profession is entering a new era of influence.Emma shares how she “fell into” procurement early in her career but quickly discovered the variety, problem solving and relationship building that makes the profession so rewarding. Now leading strategic procurement within a major housing association, she reflects on what it means to work in a sector where commercial decisions have a direct impact on people’s homes and communities.The conversation explores the unique pressures facing housing procurement today, including regulatory scrutiny, building safety requirements, sustainability expectations and the need to demonstrate clear value for money. Emma discusses why data, performance insight and strong supplier relationships are becoming central to delivering meaningful outcomes.We also look at the growing importance of collaboration across the sector through the National Housing Procurement Association, where Emma serves as Commercial Lead, helping to build capability, share good practice and create greater consistency for suppliers and procurement professionals alike.Looking ahead, Emma shares her optimism for the future of the profession, explaining how the new Procurement Act has created an opportunity for procurement teams to move beyond tactical delivery and demonstrate their value as strategic enablers.A thoughtful and inspiring conversation about purpose-driven procurement, leadership, and the real-world impact the profession can have on people’s lives.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Olivia Hughes, Social Value Manager at Liverpool City Council, to explore how social value has evolved from policy ambition into a daily delivery requirement within local government.Olivia shares her journey from the private sector into public service, bringing a unique dual perspective from both supplier and client sides of procurement. She discusses how social value has shifted from being a misunderstood concept following the 2012 Social Value Act to becoming a central strategic driver across commissioning and procurement activity.The conversation explores:Why procurement is one of the most powerful levers for driving tangible community impactThe balance between commercial outcomes and social value commitmentsHow the new Procurement Act is creating space for innovation and flexibilityThe realities of measuring social value using frameworks such as TOMSWhy digital systems are only as effective as the foundations behind themThe importance of leadership buy-in and dedicated resource to embed cultural changeOlivia also reflects on the mindset that separates suppliers who genuinely deliver social value from those who treat it as a compliance exercise, and shares practical insight into building processes that are human, proportionate and truly deliverable.A thoughtful and energising discussion about making every public pound work harder - and ensuring procurement delivers real, measurable impact for communities.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Lorraine Sawyer, Procurement Director at Orbit Group, to explore what modern procurement leadership really looks like across regulated, purpose-led organisations.Lorraine shares her deliberately chosen journey into procurement, from studying the discipline at university through to senior leadership roles spanning heavy industry and housing. With experience at Tata Steel, British Steel, Home Group, Anchor and now Orbit, she brings a rare perspective on balancing commercial rigour with public service values.The conversation explores the contrasts between procurement in steel and housing, the resilience required in challenging sectors, and why social purpose has become central to Lorraine’s leadership approach. We discuss the realities of working in a highly regulated environment, including changing consumer standards, building safety requirements and the impact of the Procurement Act, alongside the need to remain commercially focused and adaptable.Lorraine also shares practical insight into supplier relationship management, social value in practice, and how housing providers and suppliers can work together to deliver meaningful outcomes for residents and communities. We explore the role of technology in improving procurement efficiency and service delivery, and how digital transformation can create better experiences for both teams and customers.The episode closes with Lorraine’s reflections on leadership, team culture and what success looks like when procurement is truly embedded as a trusted partner within the organisation, as well as why she continues to find procurement a rewarding and dynamic career after more than 20 years in the profession.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Nicola Cullen and Tom Beard from Capital Law to explore how procurement teams can manage legal risk with confidence under the new UK Procurement Act.Nicola and Tom bring complementary perspectives from non-contentious procurement advisory work and frontline procurement disputes. Together, they unpack what has really changed under the new legislation, including streamlined procedures, enhanced transparency requirements, and the growing administrative burden around notices.The conversation covers common misconceptions procurement teams have about legal compliance, why “fairness” does not always equal legal safety, and how vague evaluation criteria, unclear ITTs, and weak contract management can expose organisations to unnecessary challenge risk.We also explore what makes an ITT legally defensible, why risk is effectively locked in once documents are published, and how early collaboration between legal and procurement teams can prevent costly firefighting later on. Nicola and Tom share real-world examples from live procurements, offering practical lessons without naming names.The episode also looks ahead, discussing the role of AI in procurement, where it can genuinely add value, where caution is needed, and how transparency, accountability, and audit trails must remain central. Finally, they reflect on the future of the profession, why procurement capability is rising, and why this is an exciting moment for both procurement and legal professionals working closely together.A must-listen for procurement leaders, legal teams, and anyone navigating public sector procurement reform.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, we’re joined by Luke Banks, Global Head of Contracts and Procurement at Plastic Energy, a business at the forefront of transforming plastic waste into a truly circular economy.Luke shares his journey from engineering into procurement, explaining why his move was a deliberate career choice rather than an accident. With experience spanning manufacturing, construction, healthcare, retail and energy, he reflects on how a technical background can strengthen negotiation, supplier relationships and strategic decision-making.We explore how procurement supports Plastic Energy’s global sustainability mission, from responsible supplier onboarding and ESG metrics to risk analytics and strategic partnerships. Luke also offers candid insight into building procurement functions in fast-growing organisations, leading teams through change, and balancing strategy with operational delivery.The conversation dives into digital transformation, AI, and why well-implemented technology is essential for freeing procurement teams to focus on value rather than administration. Luke also shares what he looks for when recruiting procurement professionals, how the perception of procurement is evolving, and why communication skills are central to long-term success.To round off the episode, Luke talks about his passion for horology and what working in the mechanical watch industry taught him about craftsmanship, supply chains and pursuing work you genuinely care about.A thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation on modern procurement, sustainability, leadership and career choices.

Welcome to a festive edition of Powering Procurement. To close out 2025, Sian and Gareth unwrap the top 12 myths that continue to shape perceptions of procurement across both public and private sectors.Drawing on insights from this year’s standout guests, including leaders from the FCA and the Cabinet Office, they explore why procurement is far more than cost cutting, why strong supplier relationships matter, why sustainability is now a strategic must, and how modern procurement teams influence business direction at the highest level.From the pitfalls of relying on spreadsheets to the growing role of software, from misconceptions about public vs private sector procurement to the all-too-common belief that procurement “slows things down,” this episode tackles the assumptions that hold the profession back.And of course, they finish with the biggest myth of all: that procurement is boring. With stories of risk, innovation, sustainability, competitive negotiation and even sourcing thousands of bottles of sparkling wine from Welsh vineyards, Gareth proves otherwise.Tune in for a lively, myth-busting Christmas countdown that celebrates the depth, diversity and real-world impact of modern procurement - and join us again in 2026 for more fresh perspectives on the profession.

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 matterWhat early adopters are already doing differently - and the innovations emerging across the UKThe rise of pre-market engagement and why it’s transforming supplier relationshipsThe power of transparency: from pipelines to KPIs and contract performanceWhy culture, capability and systems are just as important as legislationHow the new regime aims to open doors for SMEs and drive fairer competitionInsightful, practical and future-focused, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating - or curious about - the new procurement landscape.

In this episode of Powering Procurement, host Sian Lloyd is joined by Paula Corfield, Senior Procurement Manager at Monmouthshire Building Society. With more than 20 years of experience spanning manufacturing, infrastructure, policing and finance, Paula has led procurement through complex change, cultural transformation and strategy development across multiple sectors.Together, Sian and Paula explore:How public-sector experience shaped Paula’s leadership and valuesThe vital role of social value and community impact in both public and private procurementBreaking down barriers and building trust across teams and suppliersThe importance of communication, adaptability and emotional intelligence in leading changeEncouraging more women into senior procurement roles through mentoring and visibilityCandid, inspiring and full of practical insights, this conversation shines a light on the human side of procurement - from resilience and leadership to purpose and progress.