Advertise on podcast: Talent Talks Podcast

Procurement has a reputation problem, but what if it could become one of the most strategic, human-led functions in a modern business? In this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, we sit down with Darren Bosman, an experienced procurement leader who has built and scaled functions across continents and industries. From South Africa and the Seychelles to the UK, Darren brings a global perspective shaped by fintech, professional services and high-growth organisations. He is currently Head of Procurement at Tide, where he is helping the business scale through better systems, stronger stakeholder partnerships and a clear route to commercial value. Darren shares practical insight into what it really takes to set up procurement in fast-growing businesses, how to overcome the “procurement as police” stereotype, and why trust and stakeholder experience matter more than perfect processes. The conversation also explores centralised versus decentralised models, supplier relationships, hiring the right talent, and how AI is reshaping procurement by removing admin and elevating strategic impact. This episode is full of grounded advice, real-world examples and a refreshing take on where the profession is heading. This podcast is proudly sponsored by Omnea. If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the Talent Talks Podcast. What The Episode Covers Setting up procurement functions in scaling businessesOvercoming negative perceptions of procurementBuilding trust with stakeholders and suppliersCentralised vs centre-led procurement modelsManaging resistance to changeWhy procurement skills are highly transferableSimplifying procurement processes and languageThe role of AI in automating admin and enabling strategyWhat Darren looks for when hiring procurement talentThe future of procurement as a value-driving function Chapters 00:00 – Who is Darren Bosman and what is his background? 01:00 – What are the biggest challenges when building procurement from scratch? 03:00 – How do you change negative perceptions of procurement? 05:20 – When should a business move from decentralised to centre-led procurement? 08:15 – How do you manage resistance while maintaining supplier relationships? 13:45 – Are procurement skills transferable across industries and regions? 18:05 – What lessons and advice have shaped your career most? 20:00 – How will AI and technology reshape procurement roles? 24:00 – What does the future look like for procurement and your team at Tide?

How does someone with no procurement background end up building one of Europe’s fastest-growing procure-tech companies? In this episode of Talent Talks, Martin Smith sits down with Ben Freeman, co-founder and CEO of Omnea, the AI-native intake and orchestration platform transforming how companies like Spotify, Wise, Monzo and Adecco manage spend, supplier risk and procurement workflows. Ben shares his unexpected path into procurement tech, from founding cybersecurity scale-up Tessian to spending 18 months searching for his next big idea. After more than 300 interviews with procurement leaders, Ben uncovered systemic problems around collaboration, process, risk and user experience - leading him to build Omnea in 2022. Now over 150 people strong across London and New York, Omnea has raised more than $75 million from Accel, Khosla and Insight Partners, and is redefining how procurement operates in the AI era. This conversation covers talent density, efficiency, product philosophy, market noise, AI realities, and what CPOs are really struggling with today. Ben’s honesty, clarity and founder mindset make this one of the most insightful episodes to date. This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea! If you enjoy the episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more listeners discover Talent Talks. Some of the key moments during this podcast: How Ben went from cybersecurity founder to procure–tech CEOWhy he spent 18 months exploring ideas before launching OmneaWhat 300+ interviews revealed about procurement’s biggest problemsWhy talent density is the most important factor in scalingLessons learned from Tessian and applying them to OmneaThe importance of patience and product quality in enterprise softwareWhy brand awareness matters - even with an 86% RFP win rateHow AI is reshaping procurement roles and team structuresThe difference between hype-driven AI and real operational impactWhy the future of procurement is collaborative, connected and AI-nativeChapters 00:00 – Intro & Who Is Ben Freeman? 01:30 – How did a non-procurement founder build a procure–tech company?03:45 – What did 300+ interviews reveal about procurement’s biggest problems? 05:10 – How did Omnea scale to 150 people and $75m raised in 3 years? 06:35 – What pressures and realities come with leading a hypergrowth company? 08:15 – What has Omnea done right, and what’s been underestimated? 13:20 – Why is talent density the biggest determinant of success? 14:50 – How does Omnea balance efficiency with product quality and patient execution? 15:55 – Why is lack of brand awareness Omnea’s biggest growth limiter today? 19:55 – What does Ben really think about the current procure-tech landscape? 23:10 – What challenges are CPOs facing right now across industries? 26:00 – How can procurement fix its reputation and elevate its influence? 29:10 – How should procurement leaders position themselves for 2026’s opportunities? 32:00 – Will AI replace procurement roles, or transform them? 35:00 – What’s the difference between real AI substance and market hype? 36:00 – Final reflections

What does it take to grow from a young apprentice to leading global procurement transformation? In this episode of Talent Talks, Leigh Hurrell, Director of Indirect Procurement at Entrust, joins Martin Smith to discuss his two-decade journey through aerospace, defence and technology. From BAE Systems, Thales, Onfido and now Entrust.  Leigh shares how he built a career grounded in curiosity, long-term planning and a deep belief in the value of trust and relationships. Leigh offers practical advice for building great teams, fostering transparency with suppliers and balancing commercial rigour with innovation and agility. This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea! If you enjoy conversations that unpack leadership, growth and the evolving role of procurement, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to subscribe, share and leave a review to help more people discover Talent Talks. Some of the key moments during this podcast include: How Leigh first discovered procurement at BAE Systems The lessons learned from early management roles Why having a 10-year plan changed his career Building long-term supplier relationships based on trust and respect Leading procurement transformation at Onfido and Entrust Managing growth, acquisitions and rapid change Balancing commercial decisions with innovation and risk Hiring for values, not just skills The evolving role of procurement in cyber and digital supply chains Chapters 00:00 – Intro 00:40 – How Leigh started in procurement 02:50 – Early lessons from BAE Systems and Thales 06:36 – The power of curiosity and career planning 08:24 – Building lasting supplier relationships 13:19 – Moving to Onfido and adapting to rapid growth 17:42 – Procurement during acquisition and transformation 20:30 – Balancing technology, budgets and risk 23:14 – Building teams and hiring the right people 27:29 – Leadership and team culture 31:10 – The evolution of procurement and new challenges 37:14 – Quickfire questions and final reflections

On this episode of Talent Talks, Rob Douglas joins Martin Smith to share lessons from a remarkable 30-year career spanning Ford, Capgemini, Barclays, Currys, National Grid, and Direct Line Group. From his first role in “purchasing” to his evolution as Chief Procurement Officer, Rob reveals what it takes to build influence, lead through change and stay curious in a fast-evolving profession. He discusses leadership lessons learned from the Army, the art of supplier relationships, the challenges of attracting new procurement talent and how AI will shape the future of commercial decision-making. This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea. Tune in for a masterclass in leadership, strategy and staying adaptable in an ever-changing procurement landscape. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a colleague and leave us a quick review. It really helps the show grow! Some of the key moments during this podcast include: How Rob started his career in procurement after the Army Lessons learned from Ford’s legendary graduate program Building lasting supplier relationships and trust Adapting across industries: retail, energy and financial services What defines “the buyer’s instinct” and how to spot it How procurement has evolved over three decades The growing role of risk management and cyber resilience Why graduate programs are disappearing, and why that’s a problem Rob’s advice for aspiring CPOs How AI and automation could enhance, not replace, procurement Soundbites “You can be fact-driven without being horrible.” “The buyer’s instinct. You either have it or you don’t.” “Procurement isn’t just about savings anymore. It’s about resilience and relationships.” “As a leader, it’s not about winning every argument. It’s about helping your team make great decisions.” “Treat suppliers well. It’s a small industry, you’ll meet them again.” “We’ve lost too many graduate programs, and the profession will feel that gap.” “Curiosity has taken me further than ambition ever did.” “AI will enhance procurement. It won’t replace human instinct.” “Preparation is everything. You can’t fake being ready.” “If you want to be a great CPO, keep lifting the bonnet and stay curious.” Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – Early Career and Army lessons 03:00 – Learning the Foundations at Ford 05:20 – Building Strong Supplier Relationships 08:10 – Adapting Across Industries 11:50 – How Procurement has Evolved 13:10 – Buyer’s Instinct 18:00 – Balancing Risk and Commerciality 20:40 – Leadership Lessons and Developing Teams 24:30 – The Future of Procurement Talent 30:10 – Advice for Aspiring CPOs 37:00 – Quickfire Questions

Summary What happens when you bring sport, leadership, and purpose into procurement? In this episode of Talent Talks, host Martin Smith sits down with Stuart Farrell, Group Procurement Director across the FFTL portfolio (including All Points, Cuckoo Broadband and FFTL itself).  With more than 25 years of global procurement experience at companies like Vodafone, Fujitsu and HPE, Stuart shares his journey from “falling into procurement” to leading transformation across multiple industries. They explore the power of authentic relationships, why remembering people’s names and passions builds better business outcomes and how lessons from sport, especially cricket, shape high-performing teams.  Stuart also opens up about why safety must always come before savings, how procurement’s role is evolving in an AI-driven world and the traits he looks for when hiring top talent. Whether you’re a procurement professional, people leader or simply curious about the human side of business, this episode offers candid stories, practical wisdom and inspiration in equal measure. This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea. If you enjoyed this conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who loves good leadership stories. Some of the key moments during this podcast include: How a charity cricket match strengthened supplier relationships. Stuart’s unconventional entry into procurement and the deal that changed his career. Why relationships, not transactions, drive business success. Lessons learned from legendary leaders at Vodafone. The importance of empathy, curiosity and memory in leadership. How elite sport data inspired Stuart’s recruitment strategy. Why “Safety First” is the #1 KPI in his procurement organisation. The evolving role of procurement in cybersecurity and ESG. How AI can empower, not replace, procurement professionals. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Stuart Farrell 02:51 - Sports & Business Relationships 05:51 - Stuart's Entry into Procurement 11:51- Building Relationships in Procurement 18:44 - Authenticity in Business 25:49 - Defining Talent and Hiring Strategies 33:42 - The Evolution of Procurement 38:48 - Creating a Mandate for Procurement 45:48 - The Future of AI in Procurement This episode is proudly sponsored by Omnea.

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

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Richard Evans, Executive Commercial Director for NHS Supply Chain.  Richard shares valuable insights from his extensive career in procurement, discussing his transition from consultancy to the NHS, the importance of purpose in his work, and the challenges faced by the NHS Supply Chain.  He emphasises the need for collaboration, effective team management, and the evolving landscape of procurement, particularly in the healthcare sector.  Richard also reflects on his career and the skills he values in procurement talent, concluding with quickfire questions about his inspirations and views on the future of procurement. Takeaways Collaboration and people management are key to successful procurement. Integrating previously separate organisations into one cohesive unit has been a challenge for the NHS Supply Chain. Value-based procurement is essential for improving patient outcomes. Richard advocates for a people-first approach in leadership. Adaptability and agility are crucial in the ever-changing landscape of healthcare. The future of procurement is pivotal, with a focus on innovation and technology. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:55 From Consultancy to NHS Supply Chain 05:49 Purpose in Procurement 09:10 Challenges in NHS Supply Chain 12:05 Team Management 15:02 Change in the NHS 17:52 Qualities in Procurement Talent 21:13 Future of Procurement 24:02 Reflections on Career 26:47 Quickfire Questions

On this episode, Fraser McBeth, Procurement Director at Volta Trucks, shares his journey from working in established OEMs to leading procurement in a startup environment.  He discusses the unique challenges faced during the transition, particularly during the company's bankruptcy, and how he navigated these difficult times while maintaining team morale and supplier relationships.  Fraser emphasises the importance of building a high-performance culture, adapting to technological changes, and fostering open communication within the team.  He reflects on the lessons learned throughout this journey and offers insights for others considering a similar path in the startup world. Takeaways Startups require a different mindset and approach than established companies. Navigating cash flow is crucial in a startup environment. Building strong supplier relationships can provide access to valuable technology. Creating a high-performance culture involves continuous improvement and engagement. Transparency with the team fosters trust and resilience. Adapting to technological advancements is necessary for competitiveness. Flexibility in work arrangements can enhance talent acquisition. Leadership during tough times requires a balance of support and accountability. Learning from experiences in a startup can shape future career paths. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Volta Trucks 02:46 From OEM to Startup 06:08 Bankruptcy 11:51 Leadership in Crisis 17:57 Building a High-Performance Culture 24:00 Supplier Relationships 30:07 Reflection and Future Outlook

On this episode of Talent Talks, Samuel De Frates, Kathryn Thompson and Bilal Shaykh discuss the transformative role of AI in procurement, exploring its potential to enhance supplier selection, risk management, and overall efficiency.  They delve into the challenges faced by procurement professionals, the risks associated with AI implementation, and the importance of addressing resistance to change.  The conversation also highlights the evolving skills required for procurement professionals in the age of AI and the future trends that will shape the industry. Takeaways AI can significantly improve supplier selection and risk management.Using AI as a co-pilot rather than an autonomous decision maker is crucial.Automating simple tasks can free up resources for more complex challenges.Choosing the right technology to implement is critical for success.Fixing basic processes is necessary before adopting new technologies.Talent and skills gaps are major impediments to AI adoption in procurement.The future of procurement will heavily rely on AI technologies.Procurement professionals need to focus on relationship management.AI will enable procurement to concentrate on value creation rather than mundane tasks. Chapters 00:00 AI's Impact on Procurement 02:52 Challenges in Procurement 06:06 Risks of AI Implementation 08:56 Navigating Change in Procurement 12:12 Future Trends in AI and Procurement 15:00 Skills and Competencies for the Future 17:49 The Evolving Role of Procurement Professionals 21:01 Conclusion

On this episode, Martin Smith interviews John Butcher, the Procurement Director at Just Eat Takeaway.  John shares his journey of building a procurement team from scratch, the challenges he faced, and the importance of hiring the right talent.  He discusses the evolving procurement landscape, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the impact of technology, particularly AI, on the industry.  John emphasises the need for agility in procurement and offers valuable insights for aspiring leaders in the field. Takeaways Building a procurement team requires a blend of internal and external talent. Cultural fit and attitude are crucial in talent acquisition. Procurement can add value beyond just cost savings. Emotional intelligence is becoming increasingly important in procurement roles. Delegation is essential for effective leadership. Technology, including AI, is transforming the procurement landscape. Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success in procurement. Leadership involves pushing boundaries and extending influence. Chapters 00:00 Building a Team from Scratch 09:46 The Importance of Talent 19:59 Procurement in 2024 23:52 Leadership Insights

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Canberk Incekara, Head of Indirect Procurement at OCS. Canberk shares his extensive experience in procurement and supply chains, discussing the evolution of the industry, the importance of understanding the end-to-end value chain, and the challenges of navigating external factors like COVID and Brexit.  He emphasises the need for a balance between globalisation and local support, the significance of soft skills in talent management, and the changing expectations of the new generation in the workforce.  The conversation also touches on cultural adaptability in negotiations, with Canberk discussing the differences between Turkey and the UK. He also discusses the importance of retaining talent through job satisfaction and growth opportunities.   Takeaways   · Canberk’s journey reflects the interconnectedness of procurement and supply chain. · Understanding the total cost of ownership is crucial in procurement. · COVID and Brexit have reshaped procurement strategies. · Supporting local businesses is essential in a globalised market. · Procurement is evolving into a more strategic function. · Cultural adaptability is key in international negotiations. · Soft skills are increasingly important in talent management. · Retention challenges stem from new generation expectations. · Transferable skills in procurement can apply across industries. · Agility in approach is necessary for success in procurement. Chapters  00:00 Journey Through Procurement and Supply Chain 02:23 End-to-End Value Chains 04:42 External Factors in Supply Chain 06:00 Globalisation and Local Support 09:09 The Evolution of Procurement 12:52 Cultural Adaptability 16:17 Talent in Procurement 19:30 Retention Challenges 22:08 Transferable Skills 23:34 Quickfire Questions 

On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin sits down with Nikki Wright, Director of Operations at 10X Banking, as she shares her extensive experience in procurement and operations across various industries, particularly in the banking sector.    She discusses the complexities of navigating procurement within a heavily regulated environment, the balance between compliance and agility, and the evolution of procurement roles.    Nikki emphasises the importance of diversity, soft skills, and the need to rebrand procurement to overcome negative perceptions.    She also highlights the commitment of 10X Banking to sustainability and its status as a B Corp certified organisation.    The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of procurement, the impact of inflation on supplier relationships, and the necessity of digitalisation in procurement processes.    Nikki shares personal insights about her career journey, inspirations, and the importance of taking ownership of one's career path.   Takeaways Procurement often involves navigating complex regulations, especially in finance. Procurement roles are evolving to include more operational responsibilities. Diversity in procurement is improving but still has a long way to go. Soft skills are essential for success in procurement roles. There is a need to change the negative perception of procurement. Procurement functions as a bridge between the company and suppliers. 10X Banking is committed to sustainability and is B Corp certified. Job titles in procurement need consistency to attract diverse talent.  B Corp accreditation is crucial for demonstrating commitment to ESG. The decisions we make today impact future generations. Change in large organisations is often slow and challenging. Risk mitigation is essential in today's supply chain management. Digitalisation is necessary for effective procurement decision-making. Career ownership is key to professional growth.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction 02:48 Procurement in the Banking Sector 06:13 Compliance in Procurement 09:06 Procurement Roles 12:12 Diversity 14:54 Soft Skills 18:09 Negative Perceptions 20:52 Sustainability 23:48 B Corp Accreditation 27:04 Financial Sector 30:18 Challenges in ESG 34:27 Procurement Challenges 40:05 Personal Inspirations and Career Reflections 

In this episode, Martin Smith interviews Carl Ferrand, Head of Procurement at Specsavers.  Carl shares his journey into procurement, emphasising the importance of people in leadership and the need to stand out when applying for positions. He discusses the evolution of procurement, highlighting the increasing responsibilities and skills required in the field, and offers valuable advice for aspiring procurement leaders, encouraging curiosity and consistency in their careers.  The conversation also touches on the role of LinkedIn in professional identity and community building within procurement. Takeaways Carl Ferrand's journey into procurement was a conscious choice.Leadership in procurement should focus on people and their well-being.The evolution of procurement has led to increased responsibilities and skills.Aspiring leaders should embrace curiosity and enjoy their work.Building relationships is crucial for success in procurement.Consistency in performance is key to career advancement.LinkedIn serves as a valuable platform for community and professional growth.Taking time for self-care can enhance productivity and mental health.Saying yes to opportunities can lead to personal and professional opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 08:32 Leadership Philosophy 11:47 Resilience in Procurement 20:48 Evolution of Procurement 25:37 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 36:19 LinkedIn 

On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin talks to Jonathan Wharfe, Director of Procurement and Commercial Operations at Transport for London. Jonathan shares insights from his extensive career in procurement. He emphasises the importance of building communities, listening to stakeholders and fostering a culture of trust and collaboration.  Jonathan discusses the evolution of procurement practices, the impact of AI and the need to address geopolitical challenges.  He also highlights the significance of talent management and the necessity of changing the narrative around procurement to attract new talent.   Takeaways   ·       Listening is crucial for building trust in teams. ·      Culture should be developed collaboratively with teams. ·      Dyslexia can be a unique advantage in problem-solving. ·      AI will enhance procurement processes and decision-making. ·       Procurement must adapt to geopolitical challenges. ·       The narrative around procurement needs to be improved. ·      Mentorship plays a vital role in career development. Chapters 00:00 Building Communities in Procurement 02:53 The Importance of Listening 06:12 Cultural Transformation 08:56 Career Transitions and Mentorship 12:12 The Evolution of Procurement Practices 14:56 AI 17:48 Geopolitical Challenges in Procurement 21:08 Talent in Procurement 24:01 Changing the Narrative 26:48 Advice for Aspiring CPOs

On this episode of the Talent Talks Podcast, Martin speaks with Suzanna Hinnell, Operations and Marketing Director at 4C Associates, about B Corp and its impact on sustainable business practices.  They discuss the certification process, the importance of ethical business, and how B Corp helps attract talent and engage clients. Suzanna shares her personal passion for sustainability and how businesses can implement sustainable practices to help create a better future. The Key Areas of Conversation in this Podcast Episode with Suzanna Hinnell were; + B Corp certification focuses on sustainable and responsible business practices. + 4C Associates aims to be a force for good in the consultancy space. + The certification process requires significant documentation and policy implementation. + Sustainable travel practices are essential for reducing carbon footprints in consultancy. + Engaging employees in sustainability initiatives enhances team cohesion. + B Corp certification helps attract talent who are passionate about sustainability. + B Corp certification provides a framework for ethical decision-making. + The future of B Corp may depend on evolving legislation and societal expectations. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to B Corp 02:49 - The Importance of B Corp 06:05 - B Corp Certification Process 08:50 - Sustainable Travel Practices 12:10 - Sustainability and Ethics 15:02 - Attracting Talent with B Corp 17:52 - Competition in Consultancy 21:08 - Client Engagement in Consultancy 24:04 - Challenges and Opportunities of B Corp Certification 26:56 - Future of B Corp