Procurement Pivots®

Send us Fan Mail What happens when everything just feels too much? In this episode, we tackle a feeling that almost every procurement professional experiences at some point in their career: overwhelm. From the constant demands of stakeholders to ever-growing workloads and shifting expectations, it’s easy to feel like you’re running just to stand still. We explore: Why overwhelm isn’t failure but a...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we talk about an underlying theme in our coaching sessions: validation. Whether it’s feeling unseen by stakeholders, overlooked for promotion, or questioning your own value, validation sits at the heart of confidence, motivation and influence in procurement careers. We explore: The difference between external and internal validation and why both matter How over-re...

Send us Fan Mail What does imposter syndrome really mean for procurement professionals, and how can we move past it? In this episode, we dive into one of the topics our listeners requested: imposter syndrome. While the phrase is widely used, we question whether it actually helps or whether it holds us back by labelling a very normal, very human experience. We cover: Why imposter feelings often ari...

Send us Fan Mail Is perfection really the goal – or is it actually holding you back? In this episode, we explore how striving for perfection can stall progress in procurement careers, and why embracing action (even if it feels messy) is often the real key to growth. From strategic plans to job searches, we look at how waiting for the “perfect moment” can stop you moving forward. We cover: How the...

Send us Fan Mail What does self-employment really look like in the procurement world? In this episode, we open up about the realities of running your own business – the highs, the lows, and everything in between. While many dream of the freedom that self-employment promises, the truth is often more complex. We cover: The different paths into self-employment in procurement Why knowing your purpose...

Send us Fan Mail What are the hard truths about how procurement is perceived, and what role do we play in shaping that? In this episode, we tackle one of the most uncomfortable but important topics: the perception of procurement. Too often the focus is on how others see us, but are we, even unintentionally, fueling those same perceptions ourselves? From the memes we share on LinkedIn to the self-l...

Send us Fan Mail What does ownership really mean in your procurement career? In this episode, we explore how ownership goes beyond accountability. It is about taking back control where you can, and recognising where you cannot. With so many external challenges affecting procurement right now, from tough job markets to organisational change, it is easy to feel powerless. But ownership gives you cho...

Send us Fan Mail What role do values really play in your procurement career? In this episode, we explore why knowing and honouring your core values isn’t just a “nice-to-have.” It can be the difference between thriving in the right role and staying stuck in the wrong one. When you’re clear on your values, you gain a powerful navigation system for your career. They shape your decisions, strengthen...

Send us Fan Mail What does identity really mean in your procurement career? In this episode, we explore a topic that shows up frequently in coaching - how tightly we link our identity to our role, our performance, or our job title. Whether you’re navigating change, uncertainty, or simply reflecting on your own growth, identity plays a bigger role than you might think We talk about the impact of la...

Send us Fan Mail What keeps you grounded in your procurement career when things feel uncertain or hard? In this episode, we explore the role of purpose. Not as a buzzword, but as a practical anchor for decision-making, direction and resilience. Because when you’re navigating change, uncertainty, or tough calls, clarity around your purpose can help you stay focused, intentional and confident. We co...

Send us Fan Mail What role does self-reflection really play in progressing your procurement career? In this episode, we unpack what it means to slow down just enough to reflect with intention -  even when you’re busy, stretched or in the thick of change. Because taking time to reflect isn’t a luxury. It’s a powerful lever for making sustainable, strategic shifts that move you forward. We talk abou...

Send us Fan Mail Transitions are inevitable in any career. But navigating them with clarity, confidence and compassion is where the real challenge lies. In this episode, we explore the many forms of transition that show up in procurement from the changes we intentionally pursue to the ones that are thrust upon us unexpectedly. We cover: The different types of transitions that show up in procuremen...

Send us Fan Mail EP 04: OPPORTUNITY Mindset (Creating, Not Just Waiting in Your Procurement Career) What does opportunity really look like in procurement? In this episode, we explore how to spot, shape and seize opportunity in ways that are aligned with your goals, strengths and direction. Because career growth isn’t just about waiting for the right opening, it’s about creating momentum from where...

Send us Fan Mail What does visibility mean in your procurement career? In this episode, we dive into one of the most common challenges that comes up in coaching: how to feel more visible without feeling overwhelmed or inauthentic. Visibility looks different for everyone. The key is finding an approach that fits your goals, your personality, and the stage you’re at in your career. Whether you'...

Send us Fan Mail What does impact really mean in your procurement career? In this episode, we explore a theme that shows up in almost every coaching conversation: how your impact plays out with your stakeholders, your team, and yourself. Impact goes beyond the role you are in. It reflects both how others see your contribution, and how you recognise your own strengths. We cover: Why impact looks di...

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to Episode 01 of the Procurement Pivots Podcast. In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most important and often overlooked skills when it comes to building a career in procurement: POSITIONING. This is something that comes up in so many of our coaching conversations. Whether you’re feeling stuck, questioning your next step, or simply wanting to be more visible, how...

Send us Fan Mail Hello and welcome to the very first episode of the Procurement Pivots podcast. We’re Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers, two coaches who work with mid and senior-level procurement professionals. We've been talking about launching this for a long time, and we’re so excited to finally be here with you. In this first episode, we’re sharing how we came together, what this podcast is...