WorkPac Blog · WorkPac Recruitment

The First Time for Everything: Reflections on Procuary

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Thu, 06 Feb 2025 16:16:04 GMT

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The First Time for Everything: Reflections on Procuary

Did you know that was the first time I’ve spoken in public in front of my peers? And can you believe we raised an incredible £6,400 for Cancer Research and Samaritans?!

I only told a handful of people about public speaking experience (or lack of) beforehand because, to be honest, I felt a bit self-conscious about it. But now that it’s all said and done, I can confidently say it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

That’s exactly what I loved about working on #Procuary this year. Almost every single thing we did was a first for us, and that’s what made it so special. We embraced the unknown, made mistakes, learnt from them, and grew. As Dave Jones MCIPS so brilliantly put it, “We’ve become accidental event organisers.”

Here’s a quick snapshot of some of the firsts we tackled this year:

Letting the community decide: We held LinkedIn polls to choose the event date and even invited suggestions for a new name. Shoutout to Donna Bowden for coming up with the winning name!
Building excitement: We created a countdown calendar and sold sponsorships to fund it.
Celebrating excellence: For the first time, we organised an in-person awards ceremony where winners were chosen by their peers.
Fundraising in style: We hosted our very first auction, and I have to applaud Laura Sellers MCIPS and Channing Brazier, who delivered it brilliantly.
Procuary swag: Yes, we had T-shirts!
Teamwork makes the dream work: We formed a Procuary committee, bringing the incredible Laura and Channing onboard.
Finding the perfect venue: A dedicated space made a world of difference.
Making an impact: We partnered with Samaritans and Cancer Research UK (CRUK), and used a donation app to collect contributions on the day.
Adding a personal touch: Award certificates were laminated by none other than Mrs S. (Sometimes it’s the little things!)

Did the event exceed our expectations? Absolutely.

Were there things we could have done better? Without a doubt.

Do we want to do it all again? A resounding yes!

As I reflect on this journey, one thing is clear: the Procuary spirit is all about embracing challenges, learning from them, and building something meaningful together. From organising an auction to delivering an awards ceremony, every new experience taught us something invaluable.

Looking ahead, we’re already brimming with ideas for the next event. There’s so much more we want to try, refine, and explore. Procuary isn’t just an event—it’s a community of people coming together to create something bigger than themselves.

To everyone who supported us, contributed, and shared in this experience—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your generosity, enthusiasm, and encouragement made this possible.

If I didn’t get the chance to properly chat with you on the day, please drop me a message. I’d love to catch up and hear your thoughts.

Here’s to learning, growing, and daring to try something new. See you at the next Procuary!

Cheers!

How to Ensure Procurement Interims Hit the Ground Running

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 07:35:45 GMT

Setting your interim up for Success

Onboarding procurement interims can be a challenging process. These professionals are often brought in to deliver immediate results on high-pressure projects, but without the right structure in place, their effectiveness can be hindered. However, when onboarding is done correctly, interims can seamlessly transition into their roles and deliver real value from day one.

Based on my experience, I’ve identified five key steps to ensure that procurement interims can hit the ground running and make a measurable impact on your organisation. By following these best practices, you’ll not only set your interims up for success but also maximise the return on your investment in their expertise.

1. Set Clear Expectations

The foundation of a successful onboarding process is clarity. Before your procurement interim even starts, outline specific goals, deliverables, and timelines for their work. Avoid vague instructions like “optimise the supply chain” and instead provide clear, measurable objectives, such as “reduce supplier costs by 10%” or “negotiate a new contract with XYZ vendor within six weeks.”

When an interim understands exactly what’s expected, they can focus on achieving these goals without wasting time on guesswork. This clarity not only ensures productivity but also sets the tone for accountability and alignment from the outset.

Additionally, share any contextual information they might need to understand the bigger picture. For example, is this a short-term fix, part of a larger transformation project, or a response to a specific business challenge? Providing this context helps interims prioritise their efforts and align with organisational priorities.

2. Ensure Access to Resources

One of the biggest frustrations for interims is being unable to access the tools, systems, and information they need to do their jobs effectively. Before their start date, ensure that they have:

Logins and access to relevant software platforms and databases.
Key documentation, such as procurement policies, supplier contracts, and performance reports.
An overview of organisational processes and workflows.
A point of contact for IT support or any technical issues.

Without these resources in place, even the most skilled interim will struggle to deliver results. Preparation on your end minimises downtime and ensures they can dive into their work from day one.

3. Introduce Them to Key Staff

Procurement interims rarely work in isolation. Their success often depends on collaborating effectively with stakeholders across the business. To facilitate this, take the time to introduce them to key team members and decision-makers.

Schedule an initial meeting where the interim can meet:

Line managers and team members they’ll work closely with.
Key stakeholders in other departments, such as finance, operations, or legal.
Suppliers or external partners they may need to engage with.

These introductions help interims establish relationships quickly and build rapport with the people they need to rely on. It also makes it easier for them to navigate the organisational landscape and gain buy-in for their initiatives.

4. Schedule Regular Check-ins

While procurement interims are typically self-starters who thrive in high-pressure environments, regular check-ins are still essential. These meetings allow you to:

Monitor progress against agreed goals.
Address any questions or concerns they might have.
Provide feedback and guidance to ensure alignment with organisational expectations.

Weekly or bi-weekly check-ins can strike the right balance, offering enough oversight without micromanaging. These touchpoints also create an opportunity for two-way communication, allowing interims to flag potential issues or suggest improvements based on their expertise.

Encourage open dialogue during these meetings. For example, ask questions like: “Are there any obstacles you’re facing?” or “How can we support you better?” This not only fosters trust but also ensures problems are addressed early before they escalate.

5. Provide a Buddy System

Even experienced interims can benefit from having someone in the organisation to turn to for guidance. Assigning a “buddy”—a team member who knows the company’s inner workings—can be invaluable.

The buddy can help the interim:

Navigate organisational processes and unwritten rules.
Quickly locate important resources or information.
Answer any ad hoc questions that arise during their onboarding.

This informal support system reduces the interim’s reliance on senior staff for day-to-day queries and accelerates their integration into the team. It also creates a sense of connection, helping the interim feel more engaged and supported in their role.

The Benefits of Effective Onboarding

Investing time and effort into onboarding procurement interims pays dividends in the long run. When interims are onboarded effectively, they can:

Deliver results more quickly, saving time and resources.
Integrate seamlessly into your organisation, fostering stronger collaboration.
Provide fresh insights and solutions based on their external experience.

Conversely, poor onboarding can lead to frustration, misalignment, and lost productivity. By following these five steps, you can ensure a smooth and rewarding experience for both your organisation and the interim professional.

Final Thoughts

Procurement interims bring specialised skills and experience to tackle critical business challenges. However, their success often hinges on how well they’re onboarded. By setting clear expectations, providing the right resources, facilitating introductions, scheduling regular check-ins, and offering a buddy system, you can enable your interim to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact.

Ultimately, effective onboarding isn’t just about helping interims succeed—it’s about ensuring your organisation gets the maximum value from their expertise. Take the time to get it right, and you’ll reap the rewards of a highly productive and seamless partnership.

So you want to be a procurement interim, but what do you want to do?

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:59:15 GMT

When I first embarked on my journey as a procurement interim, I found myself grappling with a question that, bizarrely, I couldn't easily articulate: What exactly do I want to do? I knew I wanted to work as an interim, and I knew I wanted to work in procurement, but beyond that, I was unclear. For a long time, this lack of clarity made it challenging to chart my course

Without a clear direction, I often relied on the guidance of recruiters and my professional network. They introduced me to various roles across different categories and industries, each offering new challenges and opportunities. This approach led me on an unplanned but enriching journey that I would never have predicted.

Leaving 4C and gategroup, I could never have imagined myself buying signage for Tesco, managing reservoir remedial works for Southern Water, or working on a public sector COVID programme. Nor did I foresee procuring global car fleet for British American Tobacco, which took me around the world, or eventually returning to procurement consultancy with Efficio. Yet, each of these experiences was a stepping stone, broadening my category and industry expertise and shaping me into a versatile procurement professional.

Becoming a generalist wasn't something I set out to do, but it's a path that has served me well. I've worked across a broad spectrum of categories and industries, which has allowed me to build a reputation for flexibility and a strong ability to manage diverse procurement projects. I’ve developed preferences along the way—categories I enjoy more than others—but every role has been a valuable building block in my career.

For others, the journey might look different. Some procurement professionals choose to deepen their expertise in specific categories like IT, Facilities Management, Professional Services, or Marketing. Others may focus on particular sectors such as Pharma, Utilities, or the Public Sector. There are also those who specialise in areas like source-to-pay, contract management, supplier relationship management (SRM), or leading procurement transformation programmes.

So, what does this mean for you?

In my experience, it's crucial to be able to articulate what you've done and what you enjoy in your procurement career. Having a rough plan, even if it's just a starting point, is essential. This clarity allows you to communicate your goals to recruiters and your network, making it easier for them to help you find the right opportunities.

Here are a few questions to consider as you map out your career path:

- Do you want to be a generalist like me?

- Do you want to be known for your expertise in a particular category or capability?

- Do you want to specialise in specific industries or sectors?

- How can you nudge your way into trying something different?

Reflect on these questions and remain open to the various opportunities that may come your way. And remember, your career is a journey, not a destination. You have the right to change your mind as your career develops. What you want today might evolve as you gain more experience and insight.

Good luck!

Why Your Procurement Interim Track Record Is the Key to Success

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:38:45 GMT

In the dynamic and competitive world of procurement interim roles, our recent poll revealed a compelling insight: a strong track record often holds more weight than category or capability expertise

As someone immersed in this field, I wholeheartedly agree. When it comes to landing opportunities and delivering true value to clients, your proven achievements are what truly set you apart.

The Power of a Proven Track Record

In the procurement interim industry, your track record is your most powerful asset. It’s the tangible evidence of your accomplishments, the successes you’ve led, and the impact you’ve made in previous roles. When clients are deciding whether to bring you on board, they’re not just interested in what you know—they want to see what you’ve done. They’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running and make a meaningful difference from day one.

This is where references and documented achievements become invaluable. They serve as proof points that back up your claims, offering clients reassurance that you can deliver on your promises. A strong track record doesn’t just demonstrate your ability to execute; it builds trust with potential clients. It’s one thing to have knowledge and expertise, but it’s another to show that you’ve successfully applied them in real-world scenarios.

The Flexibility to Learn and Adapt

While expertise in specific categories or capabilities is undoubtedly beneficial, it’s important to recognise that these can often be learned or adapted as needed. The procurement industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, regulations, and market trends emerging all the time. What’s crucial is your ability to learn quickly, adapt to new challenges, and apply your experience to deliver results in unfamiliar areas.

In many cases, clients are more interested in your ability to navigate complexity, manage stakeholders, and drive projects to successful completion than in whether you have deep expertise in a specific category. This is especially true in the interim market, where the focus is often on immediate impact and short-term results. Your capacity to leverage your past experiences and apply them to new contexts is what sets you apart.

Execution Over Knowledge

It’s worth emphasising that knowledge without the ability to execute is not valuable to your clients. In the procurement interim market, clients are seeking results. They’re not just looking for someone who knows the theory—they need someone who can turn that knowledge into action and deliver tangible outcomes.

This is why a strong track record can often be more compelling than a resume filled with expertise in various categories. Your track record shows that you not only understand the principles of procurement but that you’ve successfully applied them to drive real business value. It’s your ability to execute that ultimately makes you an asset to your clients.

Building and Showcasing Your Track Record

If you’re looking to build or strengthen your track record, focus on the outcomes you’ve achieved in your previous roles. Document your successes, gather references from satisfied clients, and be ready to showcase how your contributions have made a difference. Continuously seek out opportunities to lead impactful projects, even if they’re outside your usual area of expertise. The more you can demonstrate your ability to deliver results, the more attractive you’ll be in the procurement interim market.

Conclusion

In the procurement interim industry, your track record is your calling card. While expertise in specific categories or capabilities is valuable, it’s your proven ability to deliver results that will set you apart from the competition. Clients want to see that you can execute, adapt, and make an immediate impact.

So, focus on building a strong track record, and you’ll find yourself well-positioned for success.

The Importance of Core Values in Procurement Interim Professionals

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 15:07:09 GMT

When it comes to recruiting and collaborating with procurement interims, one of the most crucial qualities we look for is the demonstration of core values, integrity, and the strength of their convictions

In an industry that thrives on delivering results and driving positive change, these traits are not just desirable—they are essential.

The Pitfalls of Being a People Pleaser

There’s no room in the procurement interim industry for people pleasers or those who simply talk a good game. Unfortunately, many professionals fall into the trap of trying to appease everyone, often at the expense of their own values and the success of their projects. I know this all too well because I was once a people pleaser myself. And let me tell you, it got me nowhere.

When I was focused on pleasing others, I wasn’t standing for anything meaningful. I was more concerned with being liked and avoiding conflict than with driving the strategies and objectives that I knew were right for the business and society. Or at the most reaching a compromise. This approach led to missed opportunities, lackluster results, and ultimately, a hard lesson learned. Being a people pleaser might keep things smooth on the surface, but it doesn’t lead to long-term success or fulfillment.

Standing for What’s Right

So, what should you stand for as a procurement interim? The answer is simple: stand for what is right for the business, society, and your professional integrity. If you’ve developed a procurement strategy or identified an objective that will truly benefit the organization and have a positive societal impact, it’s your responsibility to drive it forward with conviction.

As a procurement interim, you are often brought in to provide expertise, offer a fresh perspective, and implement strategies that others might be hesitant to pursue. This role requires more than just technical knowledge; it requires the courage to stand firm in your convictions, even when it’s challenging. The most successful procurement interims are those who can take a stand and bring others along on the journey. They are the ones who can inspire confidence in their decisions because they are grounded in strong core values.

The Power of Integrity

Integrity is the cornerstone of any successful procurement interim professional. It’s what sets apart those who truly make a difference from those who merely go through the motions. When you operate with integrity, you build trust with your clients, colleagues, and stakeholders. People are more likely to follow your lead when they know that your actions are guided by honesty, transparency, and a genuine commitment to the greater good.

In my experience, the procurement interims who embody integrity and stand by their convictions are the ones we love working with the most. These individuals are not afraid to make tough decisions or take a stand for what they believe in, even when it’s not the most popular choice. They understand that true leadership is not about being liked by everyone, but about doing what is right and leading others with purpose.

Driving Success with Conviction

As a procurement interim, your ability to drive success hinges on your willingness to stand by your values and lead with conviction. When you embrace this mindset, you not only achieve better results, but you also gain the respect and trust of those around you. More people will follow you when they see that you are committed to doing the right thing, not just for the business but for society as a whole.

In conclusion, the procurement interim professionals who truly excel are those who bring their core values, integrity, and convictions to the forefront of their work. They are the ones who make a lasting impact and create meaningful change. So, if you’re considering a career in this field or looking to elevate your current role, remember to stand for what’s right. It’s the key to not just surviving, but thriving in the procurement interim industry.

Getting the Foundations Right at Home

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 14:46:12 GMT

Ensuring your partner is on board with your decision to enter the interim world is not just a nice-to-have — it's a must-have

Embarking on a career as a procurement interim offers a world of flexibility, variety, and the opportunity to tackle dynamic, project-based tasks. However, to fully embrace this exciting career path, it's essential to have a solid foundation at home. This foundation becomes even more critical when you have a partner.

Why Your Partner's Support Is Crucial

A partner who understands and supports your career choice can make the difference between thriving in the procurement interim industry and struggling to find your footing. Their support is needed in two key areas:

1. Accepting the Financial Risk

The procurement interim industry can be rewarding, but it also comes with inherent risks, particularly when it comes to finances. Unlike a traditional job, where you have a steady paycheck, interim work can be unpredictable. There may be periods where you're between contracts and income isn't guaranteed.

For your partner, this might be a significant shift, especially if they're used to the security of a regular income. It’s essential to have open, honest conversations about the financial risks involved and to create a financial plan that works for both of you. When your partner is aware of and accepts these risks, it alleviates the stress that can arise from financial uncertainty. This mutual understanding will allow you to focus on securing contracts and delivering value to your clients, knowing that your home life is stable and supportive.

2. Getting You Through 'Next Contract Anxiety'

'Next Contract Anxiety' is something every procurement interim professional faces at some point. It’s that gnawing worry you experience when your current contract is coming to an end, and you’re unsure about what comes next. The uncertainty can be daunting, and if you let it consume you, it can affect both your professional performance and your personal well-being.

This is where having a supportive partner is invaluable. A partner who understands the nature of interim work can help you navigate this anxiety by providing emotional support and reminding you of your strengths and successes. They can be the steady hand that reassures you during uncertain times, helping you maintain perspective and confidence as you search for your next opportunity.

The Impact of an Unsettled Home

An unsettled home can be a significant barrier to success in the procurement interim industry. When there’s tension or unresolved concerns at home, it can be difficult to fully engage with and enjoy the unique experiences that interim work offers. You might find yourself distracted, stressed, or even resentful, which can affect your ability to perform at your best.

On the other hand, when your partner is onside, it creates a sense of harmony and stability that allows you to focus on your work with confidence and enthusiasm. Knowing that your partner supports your career choice and understands the ups and downs of interim work gives you the peace of mind to tackle challenges head-on and seize new opportunities as they arise.

The Value of a Supportive Partner

In the procurement interim industry, a partner who is onside is as valuable as the contract itself. Their support provides the emotional and financial stability needed to navigate the uncertainties of interim work. By building a strong foundation at home, you set yourself up for success in your career.

Remember, communication is key. Take the time to discuss your goals, the potential risks, and the rewards of interim work with your partner. Together, you can create a plan that supports both your professional ambitions and your personal well-being.

In doing so, you'll not only enhance your experience as a procurement interim but also strengthen your relationship, ensuring that both your career and home life thrive.

Finding Purpose and Success in the Procurement Interim Industry

richard@rosemaeprocurement.com (Richard Struthers) — Sat, 24 Aug 2024 18:35:17 GMT

Let’s Start at the Beginning

Entering the procurement interim industry can be an exciting and transformative journey. But like any meaningful endeavor, it's essential to begin with a clear understanding of your purpose. Whether you're a seasoned professional contemplating a shift to interim work or just starting out in the field, understanding your "why" can be the key to unlocking both personal fulfillment and professional success.

What Appeals to You About the Procurement Interim Industry?

The procurement interim industry offers a unique blend of opportunities that can be incredibly appealing to those who thrive on change and challenge. For many, the initial draw might be the flexibility and variety that come with the role. The ability to engage in diverse projects, work with different clients, and constantly expand your skill set can be incredibly rewarding.

For some, the appeal might also lie in the freedom it provides from the traditional corporate structure. If you've ever felt confined by the expectations and limitations of a senior leadership role that didn’t quite align with your strengths or passions, the procurement interim industry offers a refreshing alternative. It’s a space where you can step back from the pressures of permanent leadership roles and instead focus on the dynamic, project-based work that truly excites you.

Why Do You Want to Become a Procurement Interim?

The reasons for stepping into a procurement interim role can vary widely, but they often center around a desire for more control over one’s career. You might be motivated by the prospect of leveraging your extensive experience to deliver high-impact projects without the long-term commitment of a permanent position.

In the early stages of your interim career, the thrill of taking on new challenges and the financial rewards that come with the risk may be key motivators. You gain the ability to choose projects that resonate with you, work with clients who value your expertise, and maintain a work-life balance that suits your personal needs.

Why Stay in the Interim Industry?

As your career develops, your motivations may evolve. Initially, it might have been about flexibility, variety, and the rewards of a risk-taking career. However, as you gain more experience, the focus often shifts to the value you can bring to your clients. It becomes about how your expertise can make a tangible difference in the success of the projects you undertake.

You start asking yourself deeper questions: Am I genuinely excited about this project? Do I feel a connection with the team I will be working with? These reflections are crucial as they help you align your work with your purpose, ensuring that you remain motivated and engaged.

The Importance of Knowing Your Purpose

Understanding your purpose is vital not just for your own fulfillment, but for the success of your interim career. It’s your guiding star through the highs and lows, the challenges and triumphs. When you are clear on your purpose, it shines through in everything you do, and your clients will notice.

If your purpose is driven solely by financial gain, that will be evident. But if it’s about delivering value, enjoying variety, and embracing a flexible lifestyle, that too will be clear. Clients are perceptive—they can tell when you’re passionate about your work, and they will respond to that passion.

So, What’s Your Purpose?

As you embark on or continue your journey in the procurement interim industry, take the time to reflect on what truly drives you. Your purpose is the foundation upon which your success is built. It will not only guide your decisions and actions but also inspire confidence in those you work with.

By aligning your work with your purpose, you’ll not only achieve personal satisfaction but also leave a lasting impact on the clients and projects you engage with. And that’s what makes the procurement interim industry not just a career, but a fulfilling and meaningful path.