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A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown
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A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown

Author: Chris Robinson and Fleur Summers

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With 40 years combined public sector procurement experience, Chris and Fleur discuss the key features that will impact this sector as we edge closer to the launch of the Procurement Act 2023 which will be one of the largest changes that has been seen in this area for a number of years.

Each episode as part of this podcast series will cover a bite-sized topic that we think you will be interested to know more about. If there are any areas that you would like us to discuss as part of future episodes or be a guest, please contact us at podcast@thereformfundown.co.uk
44 Episodes
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"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
"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
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
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
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
In this episode, Chris and Fleur take a deep dive into the recent Cabinet Office lead consultation that took place entitled 'Public Procurement: Growing British Industry, Jobs and Skills'. They explore each of the different areas included in the consultation and share thoughts on the different topics included. 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
Welcome to Episode 30!In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Susan Walsh AKA The Classification Guru!We discuss her winding career path that ultimately landed her into the world of data cleansing, the value it adds to procurement both pre and post contract award, book publications and of couse, the Procurement Act 2023. Dont forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the dicussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/a-procurement-podcast-the-reform-rundownSusan's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanewalsh/Fleur'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
Welcome to Episode 29!In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Morris Williams, Procurement Manager at L&Q which is one of the leading housing association & residential developer. They discuss the Procurement Act and its implementation by Housing Associations as well as how to drive collaborative relationships within procurement. 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-rundown Morris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mwilliams-2710/Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
Welcome to Episode 28!In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Alison Nicholl, Head of Constructing Excellence of the Building Research Establishment (BRE). Together, they engage in a thought-provoking conversation following the impactful work being done by Constructing Excellence. Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13006179/Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at - podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Gabriel Quarm and Matt Williment from Procurement Heads where they discuss all about recruitment within the procurement industry and the impact that they have seen since the launch of the Procurement Act in February 2025.Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13006179/Procurement Heads LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/procurement-heads/posts/?feedView=allGabriel's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-quarm-procurement-recruitment-public-sector/Matt's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-williment-89853b188/Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
Join Chris and Fleur in this episode where they discuss where we currently are and what we have seen since the launch of the Procurement Act 2023 two months ago (February 2025). They also give you a bit of a sneak peak into what to expect with our podcast and new YouTube channel! Make sure to list to find out all about our new content coming soon! Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13006179/Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
In this first episode of Season 2, as well as continuing to follow the now live Procurement Act 2023, Chris and Fleur talk to Valerio Ficcadenti who is an Associate Professional in Business Research Methods at Lodon South Bank University. They explore the impact of the new Procurement Act in relation to Higher Education procurement activities. Valerio's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerio-ficcadenti/Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13006179/Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Annalisha Noel from The Procurement Plug to discuss what our hopes are for public sector procurement following the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023. With only days to go until the launch of the Act, this will be the last episode before entering a new world of procurement regulations. Annalisha's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annalisha-noel-mcips/The Procurement Plug (LinkedIn) - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-procurement-plug/posts/?feedView=allThe Procurement Plug (website) - https://theprocurementplug.comDon't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13006179/Fleur's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/fleur-summers-mcips-314b3817/Chris's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-robinson-mcips-16597240/Contact Chris and Fleur at podcast@thereformrundown.co.uk
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