Inside Norse episode 6

Get ready for episode 6 of Inside Norse, the latest edition of our dynamic business podcast series.

In episode 6 of Inside Norse, Simon Bullimore, Head of Procurement, joins Paul Pawa, Group Strategic Development Director, to talk about procurement in the public sector.

Simon gives his take on the upcoming Procurement Act 2023, which comes into force on 24 February 2025, and explains how this major piece of legislation will change the way public bodies buy goods and services. The Act is designed to bring a more commercial approach to the public sector, encourage innovation, and create better opportunities for small businesses.

With over £350 billion spent annually in the public sector, Simon discusses how social value and sustainability can take centre stage in procurement, shifting from MEAT (Most Economically Advantageous Tender) to MAT (Most Advantageous Tender). From apprenticeships to local development initiatives, he explains how procurement can deliver tangible benefits back to society.

Simon also reflects on his own career, from manufacturing to leading procurement at Norse Group, and continued professional development. He shares his vision for centralising procurement across Norse Group to improve efficiencies, de-risk supply chains, and contribute to Group-wide net zero carbon strategies.

As the conversation develops, Paul and Simon discuss the role of AI in procurement. Simon talks about Norse Group’s implementation of AI to create a contracts register, offering a quick and efficient way to access data. Furthermore, they discuss how this technology has the capability to assist clients with their supply chain management.

Tune in for a compelling and thought-provoking edition of Inside Norse.

Listen to the full episode here.