Talent Talks Podcast
The Talent Talks Podcast provides regular insights and guidance to procurement and supply chain professionals. Host, Martin Smith interviews CPO's within large corporations and brands in the UK such as John Lewis, Mars, Babcock International, Managing Directors of procurement specialist companies including as Procurement Excellence and Embedded IT as well as thought-leaders and authors from the sector. Martin Smith, founder of Talent Drive is a specialist procurement and supply chain recruiter. He uses his network and expertise to provide insightful, thought provoking discussions, as well as providing tips on building your own career in the industry. The podcast is just one area of #projectprocurement; Martin's network of like-minded procurement professionals including webinars, content and events. Register your email to find out about our next meet-up and get involved: https://bit.ly/talenttalksmailinglist We'd love to hear your thoughts on the podcast, and do please reach out if you'd like to be a guest; martin@talentdrive.co.uk. All links and references at https://talentdrive.co.uk/
Talent Talks Podcast
Marching Forward: Ben Farrell’s Mission to Modernise Global Procurement
On this episode, Ben Farrell MBE, discusses his journey from a 23-year military career to becoming the CEO of CIPS.
He shares insights on leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the challenges and opportunities in the procurement profession.
Ben emphasises the need for CIPS to evolve and better represent procurement professionals globally, while also highlighting the importance of creating a supportive environment for career development in procurement.
They explore the challenges and opportunities facing procurement professionals today, particularly in the context of global supply chains and the integration of AI. Additionally, the conversation touches on Ben’s involvement with the Invictus Games Foundation.
Some of the key moments during this podcast include:
Ben Farrell joined CIPS to drive change in procurement.
Human emotion plays a crucial role in leadership effectiveness.
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging but rewarding.
CIPS has the potential to be a global leader in procurement.
Ben aims to make CIPS more inclusive and relevant to all stages of a procurement career.
The future of procurement requires adapting to changing global dynamics.
Marketing the procurement profession is crucial for attracting new talent.
Procurement must shift from a process-oriented mindset to a strategic one.
Global supply chains require resilience and adaptability in the face of disruptions.
The Invictus Games Foundation supports the recovery of wounded servicemen and women.
Talent in procurement is about finding the right fit for individuals.
Continuous improvement is essential for professional bodies to remain relevant.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ben Farrell
01:15 Early Career and Military Background
04:37 Leadership Lessons from the Army
08:00 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
12:17 Experiences at John Lewis
15:33 Becoming CEO of CIPS
18:40 Global Perspectives on Procurement
20:17 Challenges and Opportunities for CIPS
25:26 Marketing the Procurement Profession
30:11 The Future of Procurement
34:22 Navigating Challenges in Procurement
38:50 Global Supply Chains
43:01 Invictus Games Foundation
45:58 Defining Talent in Procurement
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