Is Podcasting the Key to Future-Proofing Procurement Teams?
Atamis, a UK-based SaaS provider, is reshaping how procurement is seen and approached, making it more appealing to younger generations.
With roots in spend analysis since 2009, Atamis has expanded into a full-spectrum sourcing solution. Its platform is used by more than 300 organisations across the UK and internationally, offering tools for procurement pipeline planning, contract management, supplier oversight and tender management—all tailored to individual needs.
Yet, there’s a growing issue. According to the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS), only 49% of professionals actively chose procurement as a career last year. This statistic highlights the challenge of attracting new talent to an industry often stumbled into rather than sought out.
Bridging the generational divide
Recruitment firm Michael Page notes that procurement’s image problem stems from its traditional entry point: “falling into it.” This unplanned route discourages younger professionals, furthering a generational gap.
With an ageing workforce and fresh talent in short supply, industry leaders suggest engaging future professionals early at a more grassroots level.
This matters more as workplace expectations evolve, with 75% of Gen Z workers now prioritising flexibility—not just in terms of location but in career pathways. They value dynamic roles that allow for both horizontal and vertical growth, alongside adaptable, tech-friendly workplaces.
Plus, Gen Z have grown up as digital natives and are quick to adopt new technologies and often reject outdated systems. This adaptability makes them ideal candidates for innovation-driven industries, including procurement.
However, their distaste for repetitive tasks and inefficient systems means organisations must offer modern tools, like automation, to capture their interest. Could digital platforms and social outreach be the solution to procurement’s talent dilemma?
The podcast approach
Not everyone dreams of a career in procurement, but Atamis is set on changing that narrative.
Recognising the importance of storytelling, the company launched the 'Powering Procurement Podcast' in October. The podcast aims to spark interest in procurement by showcasing its relevance, diversity and impact.
Each fortnight, hosts Sian Lloyd, a former BBC journalist, and Gareth Burch, Atamis’ Product Director, engage with industry leaders. Together, they delve into pressing topics, share experiences and highlight why procurement careers are worth pursuing.
“Coming in as an outsider to the procurement industry, I had no idea how important a role procurement plays when it’s empowered,” Sian remarks.
“On every episode, our guests get under the skin of the biggest challenges facing procurement, but really, they are relevant for professionals everywhere.”
Phil Musgrave, CEO of Atamis, sees the podcast as an extension of the company’s mission.
"Raising the profile of procurement is a core mission of Atamis", comments Phil Musgrave, Atamis CEO.
"We wanted to create a space where procurement leaders could share their knowledge and experiences and demonstrate how varied and rewarding a procurement career can be."
Shaping procurement’s strategic role
One key theme in the podcast is the need for procurement to have a seat at the decision-making table.
Often side-lined, procurement departments report to roles such as COO or CFO, which can limit their influence. This is problematic in the face of challenges like Scope 3 emissions, indirect greenhouse gas emissions from supply chains, which demand procurement’s strategic involvement.
“Who your company does business with and who you buy your materials and services from will make or break businesses in the twenty-first century,” adds Gareth.
“Lack of innovation and an inability to reach ESG goals are just some of the outcomes if leadership teams don’t embrace procurement as a strategic function rather than treating it as just a cost centre.”
Atamis’ tools and podcast aim to empower procurement professionals to lead in areas like sustainable sourcing and social value supplier programmes.
“That’s the whole reason Atamis exists when it comes down to it,” Phil says. “We want procurement professionals to be empowered with the tools they need to drive real change within their organisations.”
By reshaping how procurement is perceived and championing its potential, Atamis hopes to inspire the next generation of procurement leaders.
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