Procurement is under pressure to deliver on two fronts: cutting costs and advancing sustainability goals. Balancing these demands has only got harder in a period of supply chain uncertainty and developing regulatory climate. How can organisations make progress on sustainability without compromising cost and availability of stock? Where can trade-offs be found? And on top of this, how do you stay compliant as ESG regulations evolve? 

A senior procurement leader from national retailer Co-op shares how their team is tackling this balancing act on the frontline. And, get practical advice on how to engage suppliers and bring them with you on the journey to managing compliance and meeting your sustainability goals.

Session supported by EcoVadis

Carrot or the stick – what’s the best way to get supplier engagement on sustainability? This (light) debate brings two contrasting opinions to the table. 

Making the case for the softer approach is Stephen Rose MCIPS, head of supply chain services at air traffic controller NATS, and an advocate for building strong supplier relationships. 

Countering is Becky Annison, head of engagement at the legal body Chancery Lane Project, who will explain why adding ESG clauses into contracts is the most effective tool in your arsenal.

Poorly managed contracts can quickly become a source of confusion, risk and missed opportunity. Bad visibility and manual processes make effective oversight of contracts a major challenge. So, how do you bring order to multiple, complex contracts? What does good contract management lookout throughout the entire lifecycle? And, how can digital tools and AI further enhance these efforts? 

Find out in this session as a global infrastructure firm shares its lessons for success and gain insight into the emerging AI capabilities to reduce your contract risk, better manage supplier performance, and bring clarity to chaos.

Session supported by Agiloft

This year’s CIPS Global State of Procurement & Supply report, supported by GEP, finds a community that is gaining in influence and confidence. Professionals know that they must develop their leadership and strategic skills to bring their insights to the top table. As senior procurement leaders gain permanent seats on the main board, how do you deliver the most impact? Why do procurement and supply leaders hold the keys to driving automation and delivering genuine sustainable impact? 

A panel of CPOs offered their views on the findings and shared valuable advice for the profession to maintain its newfound voice.