- 30
- JUL
- 2010
Where maverick spend goes too far
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: Risk
Procurement is a high risk function, where high volumes of transactions and heavy expenditure can often mask unethical or fraudulent purchasing. Not only are strict internal regulations and procedures required, but the capacity to ensure that staff are complying with these policies. more
- 27
- JUL
- 2010
Powering the green revolution
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: CSR & Green
Not only has the recession slowed economic growth but it has also stalled environmental development projects. The value of new renewable investments fell to US$162 billion in 2009 from US$173 billion in the previous year. Most countries are setting ambitious targets for increased renewable energy uptake, but the question remains how will we power the future? more
- 23
- JUL
- 2010
Radio frequency identification in fish stock to net big savings
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: Technology & Apps
An experiment in the North Sea has successfully brought modern warehouse management techniques into the fisheries supply chain. Swedish fishermen attached radio frequency identification (RFID) to store, track and monitor cod deliveries. The potential savings are not just small fry. more
- 22
- JUL
- 2010
What skills does a successful category manager need?
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: Talent, Category Management
The procurement function has dramatically changed from its previous role of purchasing and transactional compliance. Procurement departments are now strategic agents that seek to align best practice within the business. Analysts, buyers and category managers also need to grow to meet these new needs. more
- 17
- JUL
- 2010
Procurement failing to set the benchmark
Author: Ian George - Categories: Best Practice & Benchmarking
Back in 2008 research by the Procurement Leaders Network revealed that as many as 95% of CPOs would welcome an independent benchmarking tool – a staggeringly high figure which illustrates not only the importance of benchmarking as a means of measuring and delivering results, but also the frustration that exists in the wider procurement community. more
- 15
- JUL
- 2010
Air cargo's corrupt underbelly: 'takes' on a plane
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: Risk
The European Commission has recently approved British Airways' merger with Spanish carrier Iberia, as well its partnership with American Airlines for cross-Atlantic flight scheduling. However, the air industry has been dogged by price collusion, corruption and scandals across the world, resulting in increase costs for air cargo shipping. Marketing liberalisation and growth does not seem to be easing logistics operations and it seems unlikely that the clear skies will be clean skies. more
- 14
- JUL
- 2010
Procurement's insurance dilemma
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: Indirect Spend
Risk has been a watchword over the past two years as firms have grappled with the some of the most turbulent economic conditions in a generation. This focus has led to an increased focus on insurance – but are companies armed with the information they need to secure the right deal at the right price? more
- 12
- JUL
- 2010
Resolving long-term FM problems
Author: Jonathan Webb - Categories: Indirect Spend
I recently acted as lead analyst at a PIU Facilities Management Workshop in London. Bringing together some of the leading FM talent, the PIU aimed to condense some of the cutting-edge thinking in the field of facilities management. more
