From cost control to value creation: What procurement gets right

Simon Lipscomb is joined by Sarah Walters, Head of Procurement at AXA, to explore how curiosity, early engagement, and strong supplier relationships drive meaningful value across the procurement lifecycle.

Drawing on a 30-year career spanning manufacturing, financial services, and consultancy, Sarah shares practical insights on what makes procurement truly effective,  from influencing at the design stage to managing supplier relationships long after contracts are signed.

This episode covers:

• Why the most successful procurement professionals are curious listeners first and technical experts second
• How early involvement in product and service design unlocks significant cost and value opportunities
• The importance of integrating procurement into the business through strategic business partnering
• The evolving role of procurement as a strategic function, and why the profession must do more to raise its profile and attract future talent

Listen to the podcast below: