A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown

Episode

• Episode 51 - CIPS Essex Branch Event - Contract Management & Contract Leverage 12.06.2026 59mnt

  "Podcast Live on Tour - CIPS Essex Branch Event - Contract Management & Contract Leverage"Join Chris and Fleur in this special live podcast episode in conjunction with the CIPS Essex Branch. In this live recording which focuses on the event topic of Contract Management & Contract Management, Chris and Fleur are joined by the CIPS Essex Branch Chair (Tony Morris), Nick Smith (Head of Procurement, Get Living) and Barry Messenger (Procurement Specialist, Essex County Council). As part of the conversation, we look to explore the importance of contract management and the benefits that it can bring across both private and public sector contracting. Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 50 - 50 Not Out: Procurement, Podcasts, and the Idiot's Guide to Surviving the Procurement Galaxy 01.06.2026 1j 53mnt

  "50 Not Out: Procurement, Podcasts, and the Idiot's Guide to Surviving the Procurement Galaxy"Join Chris and Fleur in this special celebratory podcast episode to mark the incredible milestone of 50 published episodes!In this episode, Chris and Fleur take a look back at their podcast journey since the very first episode and discuss some of their highlights and key takeaways. In addition, they look to answer questions received from our listeners as well as give some insights into what is next for the podcast and what you can expect to see with future episodes. This was a very special episode for both Chris and Fleur, who are also joined by some of our previous guests who have shared special messages to celebrate this incredible milestone. Make sure to also listen/watch to the end as there is a very special message that they received from someone very respected within the Procurement community. Thank you to everyone who has listened, watched and joined Chris and Fleur on this procurement journey as well as supported them to get to this incredible milestone. Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 49 - From Policy to Practice: Procurement Reform, Public Value and Leading Change in Local Government 06.05.2026 1j 7mnt

  "From Policy to Practice: Procurement Reform, Public Value and Leading Change in Local Government"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Lewis Sinkala, Head of Procurement at Leeds City Council. This episode takes us back to our podcast roots as it focuses on public sector procurement, reform and how policy change actually translates into real-world outcomes. Lewis is a senior public sector procurement leader with a reputation for combining technical expertise with a strong sense of purpose covering procurement, social value, contract management, and public value creation.Check out Lewis's LinkedIn page here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-sinkala-350a7896/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 48 - Purpose, People and Performance - A Global Perspective on Modern Procurement Leadership 29.04.2026 1j 18mnt

  "Purpose, People and Performance - A Global Perspective on Modern Procurement Leadership"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Suresh Keshaven FCIPS Chartered to the podcast to talk all about modern procurement leadership. Suresh has shaped, elevated, and energised the procurement profession across India and the wider region. He is known for his passion, generosity, and relentless commitment to capability building. Suresh is the Chair of the CIPS India Branch, a transformation specialist across Oil & Gas and EPC supply chains, keynote speaker, mentor, and a long‑standing champion of the global procurement community. Suresh has received multiple awards for excellence, change leadership, operational performance, and community impact — and has become one of the most recognisable voices championing professional standards and procurement credibility across India. Check out Suresh's LinkedIn page here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suresh-keshavan-fcips-chartered-7501aa21b/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 47 - Cutting through the noise: Circular economy, climate action and making sustainability actually happen 22.04.2026 1j 10mnt

  "Cutting through the noise: Circular economy, climate action and making sustainability actually happen"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome James George, Chief Sustainability Strategist from The Vyne Group to the podcast where they dive straight into the epicentre of sustainability, systems change, and what it really takes to move from climate ambition to climate action. James as many of our listeners will know is a no-nonsense voice on sustainability, circular economy, climate strategy, and leadership across business, government, and the non-profit sector.Check out James's LinkedIn page here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-a-george/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 46 - United in our Procurement Principles 15.04.2026 1j 18mnt

  "United in our Procurement Principles"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Harold Nwariaku FCIPS to the podcast. Harold is the County Head (USA) for CIPS; Managing Partner, PSCC LLC; and Author & Speaker, and assessor who has helped organisations benchmark capability and delivery measurable procurement improvements. Check out Harold's LinkedIn page here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/haroldnwariaku/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 45 - From RFI to Contract Closeout - Procurement Excellence in Poland's Renewable Boom 08.04.2026 1j 6mnt

  "From RFI to Contract Closeour - Procurement Excellence in Poland's Renewable BoomJoin us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Ula Woronowicz, a Procurement leader with over 20 years' experience, over 15 years in energy, and someone who now plays a pivotal role in renewables and large-scale CAPEX projects. The conversation as part of this episode takes us over to Poland where we discuss with Ula all about the Energy market which is currently undergoing a sigificant transformation. Check out Ula's LinkedIn page here - https://www.linkedin.com/in/urszulaworonowicz/ Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 44 - Procurement in Defence: Where Innovation Meets Security 25.03.2026 48mnt

  "Procurement in Defence: Where innovation Meets Security"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Saema Jaffer from the UK Ministry of Defence to the podcast for a conversation packed with insight, honesty, and some seriously thought‑provoking perspectives on the procurement profession. From Parliament to the Cabinet Office to HS2, Saema has seen (and shaped) procurement at the highest levels, including playing a part in the formative stages of the Procurement Act 2023.As mentioned in the episode, Saema will be at the CIPS Birmingham & Coventry branch event on Thursday 26th March delivering a Social Value themese presentation. Registration details can be found here: https://events.cips.org/ProcurementwithPurposeMaximisingSocialValueMinimisingModernSlaveryRiskCheck out Saema's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/saema-jaffer/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 43 - Stephen Seki is back and the tables have turned 16.03.2026 51mnt

  "Stephen Seki is back and the tables have turned"Following the success of Episode 37 where we were joined by Stephen Seki (CEO of SekiSpeaks Ltd), the tables have turned in this episode and Stephen becomes the host of the podcast! Find out from Chris and Fleur all about their career backgrounds and how they got into Procurement as well as the opportunities that the profession enables! This is an episode not to be missed, where Chris and Fleur find out what it is like to be interviewed on a podcast episode!Check out Stephen's LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenseki-motivationalspeaker/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 42 - Women Empowering Defence - Inclusion, Leadership & the Future of Procurement 09.03.2026 54mnt

  "Women Empowering Defence - Inclusion, Leadership & the Future of Procurement"In this episode of the podcast, we are celebrating leadership, diversity, and empowerment in the run up to International Women's Day on 8th March 2026, taking a moment to recognise the exceptional woment transforming defence and security. Chris and Fleur are joined by two remarkable leaders, Natalie Maddox-Hussain and Jodie Evans, who are the co-founders of Women Empowering Defence (WED) which is a voluntary movement created in 2023 to champion gender equality, inclusion and leadership across the defence sector. Check out the Women Empowering Defence (WED) website - https://womenempoweringdefence.comCheck out the Women Empowering Defence (WED) LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/women-empowering-defence/Check out Natalie's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-maddox-hussain-9603b58a/Check out Jodie's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-evans100/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 and wider - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 41 - Procurement Excellence, Digital Transformation & The Power Of Purpose 02.03.2026 57mnt

  "Procurement Excellence, Digital Transformation & The Power Of Purpose"In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur are joined by Jose Bustillo, Vice President, Delivery & Procurement Excellence at Spend HQ. Check out Jose Butillo's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bustillojose/Check out Spend HQ's Linkedin page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/spendhq/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 40 - "The Branch Brief: CIPS Malawi Conversations" 23.02.2026 45mnt

  "The Branch Brief: CIPS Malawi Conversations"In this episode of the podcast Chris and Fleur are joined by Alex Chambukira FCIPS, chairperson of the CIPS Malawi Branch. For Episode 40 Chris and Fleur are thrilled to bring some CIPS Southern Africa energy to the podcast as we sit down with Alex Chambukira FCIPS  a true champion of the procurement profession across Malawi and the wider Southern African community. 🗣 Alex Chambukira's positive influence within the region is remarkable, in this episode we discuss:His role as Chairperson of the CIPS Malawi Branch, shaping capability growth and professional standardsHow he became a respected voice across CIPS Southern Africa promoting for stronger governance, ethics, and regional collaborationHis career spanning major donor‑funded programmes that have transformed water, infrastructure, and development outcomes across MalawiHow Malawi’s public procurement landscape is evolving — from digitisation to regulatory strengtheningWhat Malawi Vision 2063 means for procurement as a strategic national enablerAlex Chambukira FCIPS also shares invaluable advice for young practitioners across #Malawi and Southern Africa who are aiming for MCIPS or FCIPS, and the importance of staying rooted in ethics, curiosity, and continuous learningCheck out Alex Chambukira's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-chambukira-fcips-6847a9274/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 39 - Why Error Reduction Matters with Cliff Smith from the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI) 11.02.2026 55mnt

  "Why Error Reduction Matters with Cliff Smith from the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI)"In this episode of the podcast Chris and Fleur are joined by Cliff Smith, Executive Director at GIRI (Get It Right Initiative) where they look to discuss the reasons behind why GIRI was created and how they can support in reducing errors mainly within the Construction industry. Further details about GIRI and how they can support are available on their website - https://getitright.uk.comCheck out GIRI's LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/company/getitrightinitiative/posts/?feedView=allCheck our Cliff's LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliff-smith-fice-24480411/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 38 - From Reform to Reality: Legal Insights on the Procurement Act 04.02.2026 49mnt

  "From Reform to Reality: Legal Insights on the Procurement Act with Jade Divers from Trowers & Hamlins"In this episode of the podcast Chris and Fleur are joined by Jade Divers, Associate from Trowers & Hamlins. Jade is a leading expert in public procurement law who brings a rare blend of central government in-house experience and front-line advisory insight, making this a standout conversation for anyone navigating the Procurement Act 2023, whether you be a contracting authority or supplier to the sector. Check out Jade's LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-divers-739659383/Check out Trowers & Hamlins LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/company/trowers/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 37 - The Human Side of Procurement: A Conversation with Stephen Seki 28.01.2026 54mnt

  "The Human Side of Procurement: A Conversation with Stephen Seki"In this episode of the podcast which kicks off Season 3, Chris and Fleur are joined by the absolute powerhouse and motivational speaker, Stephen Seki - CEO of SekiSpeaks Ltd.This episode takes a slightly different approach from our usual format, but Stephen's insights on positive mindset, resilience and personal growth will deliver tremendous value to our listeners. In this episode, we dive into:- Stephen's journey - from pharmacist to the stage as a motivational speaker- How he communicates differently to Ben Z vs. Directors, Leaders & Executives- Why authenticity matters more than ever- The challenges young people face entering their careers- Mindset during change - including the impact of the technological advancements to the procurement profession- What happens when leaders ignore the human side of their colleaguesThis episode is equal parts inspiring, practical, and energising, whether you’re a student, a seasoned leader, or somewhere in between, there’s something in here for you.Check out Stephen's LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenseki-motivationalspeaker/Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 36 - Beyond the Contract: Vendor Management Meets Strategic Procurement 23.12.2025 57mnt

  "Beyond the Contract: Vendor Management Meets Strategic Procurement"In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur are joined by Celia SGAR who is the co-founder of Vendor Score IT and creator of Supply Management Framework SGAR. They discuss about the benefits that a structured approach to SRM can bring to an organisation as well as tools and methodologies that can support implementation. Check out Celia's LinkedIn page here for more details - https://www.linkedin.com/in/celiasgar/More details on Vendor Management Hub can be found on Celia's website - https://www.vendormanagerhub.comDon't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 35 - The Transatlantic Tender: UK & Canada in Conversation 19.12.2025 57mnt

  "The Transatlantic Tender: UK & Canada in Conversation"In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur are joined by Richa Singh, podcast host of Procurement Horizons and our first non-UK based guest, where they talk all about the differences in procurement between the UK & Canada. Make sure to listen as Chris and Fleur are also put under the spotlight with some insightful questions. Richa's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/richasingh0408/Procurement Horizons podcast (Spotify) - https://open.spotify.com/show/4lJKe0YhicRvcn9m1MpcfU?si=20e7e9a3398746b2Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 34 - Benefiting from Preliminary Market Engagement 11.12.2025 39mnt

  Engage to Win, Procurement’s First Move - Benefiting from Preliminary Market EngagementIn this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur talk all about Preliminary Market Engagement under the Procurement Act 2023. They explore the importance of market engagement, the new notice that has been introduced as well as looking at how to unlock the potential that can be seen from carrying out this activity. Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chrs and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 33 - SEC 2025 Who's Leading the Way - LIVE EDITION 10.11.2025 54mnt

  In this very special episode of the podcast, welcome to this live recording of South East Consortium’s2025 “Who’s Leading the Way”.Chris and Fleur are joined by four amazing guests who all bring great insights and views to a range of different topics!Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownSouth East Consortium's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-east-consortium/posts/?feedView=allFleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chrs and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
• Episode 32 - Countdown to SEC 2025 and a special announcement! 03.10.2025 37mnt

  In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by David Smith (Acting Chief Executive Officer of South East Consortium) where they discuss topics such as the Procurement and the recent Consultation in relation to Housing Associations and the specific work that SEC carry out. Make sure to listen till the end for a special announcement!Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownDavid's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsmithkent/South East Consortium's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/south-east-consortium/posts/?feedView=allRegister to attend SEC 2025 - https://southeastconsortium.org.uk/events/sec2025Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-chartered-16597240/Contact Chrs and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk