In this week’s soapbox, consultant Neil Thornton explains some of the problems faced in revamping NHS procurement. "To assist in delivering the agenda required to become world-class commissioners, Primary Care Trusts are increasingly recognising the need to have access to purchasers. Existing NHS buyers may have to decide on which side of the fence they [...]
In this issue’s Knowledge Zone, Jakki Ballard discusses how uncovering your values can help you decide where to take your career. Taking time to think about what makes you tick can lead to enhanced job satisfaction and increased success. What are you looking for in terms of job satisfaction? Is it responsibility? Travel? The opportunity [...]
Insurer Aon and consultancy State of Flux are looking supply chain and risk managers to gauge the extent to which firms are managing supply chain risk. According to State of Flux, understanding supply chain risks has helped organisations to prioritise areas on which focus should be placed, to modify supply chains for greater resilience, and [...]
In this issue’s Adviser, a reader asked SM “What are the best KPIs for a purchasing and logistics executive?” Our experts said KPIs should cover cost, service and performance, reflect the current stage of development and have monetary values and improvement targets. Do you have any tips for establishing useful KPIs for buyers?
In the next issue of Supply Management, out tomorrow. Features The upside of a downturn – What opportunities does the economic downturn have for buyers? A source of inspiration – It’s not only small operations that can learn about China sourcing Search for stars – How you can recruit the brightest and best local buyers [...]
This story on the BBC website reveals some of the world’s most powerful brands. The list takes into account a firm’s financial status and consumer sentiment. Internet search engine Google topped the list, with other companies such as Microsoft, Coca Cola and IBM all keeping it company. The best performing UK firm was Vodafone, closely [...]
In our up coming career development supplement Anton Roe, director at recruitment consultants Matchtech says there is only three degrees of separation between people in procurement. The idea being that you know a buyer, who knows a buyer, who knows you. Have you ever experienced this? Or could buyers do more to network?
In this issue’s The way to the top, Jonathan Patrick says some of the benefits of being head of procurement at ITV are working in an exciting environment, being involved with shows like I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here! and occasionally sharing a lift with celebrities. Ever worked in a procurement role or [...]
In this issue’s Letters column, a reader argues UK buyers should not follow the lead of the US in terms of supplier diversity. Instead of special programmes favouring particular suppliers, he says, all potential bidders should be given a fair chance. The letter was in response to an SM news story from 27 March “Buyers [...]
In this issue, a reader asked for suggestions on how to empower their staff and increase professionalism in their team. Advice from our experts focussed on involving team members in change, promoting procurement to management and acknowledging success along the way. What do you think are the key ingredients for an empowered procurement team? Any [...]
