In this CXO discussion, Joanna Martinez hosts Acceleration Economy analyst Tony Uphoff. The two discuss why Chief Procurement Officers deserve a “seat at the table” alongside other c-suite executives.
Highlights
00:16 — As a Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), Joanna notes that many procurement professionals have “angst about not having a seat at the table.” Joanna feels excited when CPOs are able to connect with CEOs. She asks Tony what he sees relative to the role of a CPO raising their profile and getting a seat at the table.
01:59 — As a 4X CEO, Tony has met with other C-level executives who also feel they didn’t have a seat at the table. He first points out that getting a seat at the table is something that is earned through insights and understanding the impact the individual has on the business. Tony encourages CPOs to “focus on the things they can control,” which ultimately results in a seat at the table.
03:36 — “You may realize you’re having more of an impact than you think you are, even if you don’t feel like you have a seat at the table,” says Tony, before asking Joanna what advice she has for CPOs who want a seat.
03:49 — “There’s a difference between complaining that you don’t have a seat at the table and actually taking the actions that you need to take to get it,” suggests Joanna. She encourages CPOs to concentrate on exemplary value creation in order to win a seat at the table and believes that CPOs can contribute by developing a deep understanding of new technologies.
05:42 — Joanna notes that procurement tends to be a reactionary function in which professionals do what they are asked to do. Getting an invitation to the “table” requires CPOs to educate themselves, ask the right questions to the supplier community, and come to the table willing to deliver something different.
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