Donna Bowden & Laura Sellers

Procurement Pivots®

A Careers , Business and Management podcast

#107 in Careers · 🇦🇪 #160 in Careers · 🇳🇿

About the show

Honest conversations and fresh perspectives to help procurement professionals, wherever you are in your career. Navigate change, grow with confidence and shape a career on your terms. Co-hosted by Donna Bowden (Procurement Career Coach, Founder of Narrate Your Career) and Laura Sellers (Executive & Leadership Coach, Founder of Coaching for Procurement) who bring a combined 20+ years of supporting procurement growth

Newest episodes

EP70: Networking for Introverts: How to Feel More Confident and Less Awkward

Nov 9, 2026 39 min

Send us Fan Mail Does the thought of walking into a networking event where you don't know anyone fill you with dread? Do you find professional networking uncomfortable, awkward or exhausting? Or perhaps you know how important building relationships is for your career, but you're not sure how to approach networking in a way that feels natural to you. Networking as an introvert doesn't have to mean forcing yourself to become more extroverted. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore how introverts can build networking confidence, develop meaningful professional relationships and strengthen their career opportunities without changing who they are. Drawing on their experience supporting procurement professionals and leaders, they challenge some common assumptions about networking, including the idea that successful networking means attending lots of events, speaking to everyone in the room or constantly putting yourself out there. Because effective networking isn't about collecting contacts. It's about building genuine relationships, developing your professional visibility and reputation, and making sure the right people know who you are and what you have to offer. Whether you're preparing for your next networking event, looking to build your professional network, exploring new career opportunities or wanting to strengthen your relationships within procurement, this conversation offers practical ideas and a different perspective. IN THIS EPISODE Networking as an introvert: Why being introverted doesn't mean you're shy, lack confidence or can't build strong professional relationships.Overcoming networking anxiety: How to reduce the pressure and approach networking in a way that works for you.Preparing for networking events: Practical ways to feel more comfortable and confident before walking into the room.Starting meaningful conversations: Why being interested in others can be more valuable than trying to be interesting.Networ...

EP69: Preparing for Your Procurement Team's End-of-Year Performance Reviews: How to Make Them Count

Nov 2, 2026 27 min

Send us Fan Mail How do you prepare for your procurement team's end-of-year performance reviews and make sure these important conversations really count? What questions should you be asking? How can you make annual performance reviews more meaningful, rather than simply another HR tick-box exercise? And how do you recognise your team's contribution beyond procurement savings and traditional performance measures? Perhaps most importantly, how can effective procurement leadership turn these conversations into opportunities to strengthen motivation, support procurement career development and progression, and improve employee engagement and retention? For procurement leaders, performance reviews are about much more than assessing what someone has delivered over the past 12 months. These conversations can have a significant impact on procurement careers, professional development and how individuals feel about their future within an organisation. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore how procurement leaders can prepare for meaningful end-of-year performance reviews, recognise individual contributions and create conversations that set their people up for success. Because the way you approach these conversations can influence how valued, motivated and supported someone feels. It might even influence whether they decide to stay or leave. In this episode, we explore: Why end-of-year performance reviews can be pivotal moments in procurement careersHow to prepare for meaningful annual appraisals rather than treating them as a tick-box exerciseWhy performance feedback shouldn't come as an unpleasant surpriseRecognising procurement contributions beyond cost savings, including stakeholder relationships and wider business impactHow recognition and appreciation can influence motivation, engagement and retentionWhy effective performance reviews should be two-way conversationsHow these conversations can support future development, career...

EP68: Team Dynamics in Procurement: The Complexities Behind Building a Great Team

Oct 26, 2026 41 min

Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to build a great procurement team? You can bring together highly experienced, capable procurement professionals, but that doesn't automatically mean they'll work effectively together. Because building a great procurement team is about much more than individual skills, experience and technical expertise. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore the complexities of team dynamics in procurement, the challenges procurement leaders face when building and leading high-performing teams, and the factors that can influence how successfully people work together. From different personalities and motivations to organisational structures, ways of working and relationships, there's often much more going on beneath the surface than we initially recognise. And understanding those dynamics can make a significant difference to both individual and collective performance. In this episode, we explore: Why bringing together great procurement professionals doesn't automatically create a great teamThe different factors that influence procurement team dynamics and performanceHow organisational structures, cultures and ways of working shape team effectivenessThe importance of understanding individual motivations, strengths and expectationsWhy trust, psychological safety and open communication matterThe challenges of building collaboration across procurement teams, functions and locationsBalancing individual development with collective team performanceThe role of procurement leadership in recognising and addressing underlying team challengesWhether you're a Head of Procurement, Procurement Director, team leader or someone aspiring to take on greater leadership responsibility, this conversation offers an opportunity to reflect on what really makes a procurement team effective. Because building a great team isn't simply about having great people. It's about creating the conditions for those people to succeed...

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All episodes

EP70: Networking for Introverts: How to Feel More Confident and Less Awkward

Nov 9, 2026 39 min

EP69: Preparing for Your Procurement Team's End-of-Year Performance Reviews: How to Make Them Count

Nov 2, 2026 27 min

EP68: Team Dynamics in Procurement: The Complexities Behind Building a Great Team

Oct 26, 2026 41 min

EP67: Pressure in Procurement: How to Respond Rather Than React

Oct 19, 2026 29 min

Send us Fan Mail How do you stay effective under pressure when working in procurement? Managing competing priorities, demanding stakeholders, tight deadlines and increasing expectations can make pressure feel like a constant part of working in procurement. But how often do you stop to consider where that pressure is actually coming from, and how it's influencing the way you think, behave and make decisions? In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore the challenges of managing pressure in procurement, why even experienced procurement professionals and leaders can find themselves feeling overwhelmed, and how developing greater self-awareness can help us respond rather than react. Because not all pressure comes from the people and situations around us. Sometimes, it's the expectations we place on ourselves that make things harder. And the very strengths that have helped us succeed in our procurement careers can sometimes work against us when pressure builds. In this episode, we explore: Where pressure comes from in procurement and why it can feel relentlessHow to recognise when you're taking on other people's pressureThe expectations we place on ourselves as procurement professionals and leadersWhy some of our greatest strengths can work against us under pressureThe difference between responding and reacting when demands increaseHow creating space to think can help us make better decisionsThe importance of recognising what we can control and influenceWhy boundaries, perspective and support matter when pressure buildsWhether you're leading a procurement function, managing challenging stakeholder relationships or simply finding yourself juggling more than you'd like, this conversation offers an opportunity to reflect on how you're experiencing pressure and what might help you navigate it more effectively. Sometimes, it's the pause that enables the pace. Get in Touch You can now receive even more insights from us and have the opp...

EP66: Evidencing Your Value Through Social Proof in Procurement

Oct 12, 2026 30 min

Send us Fan Mail You know the value you bring. But how well can you evidence it? In today's procurement landscape, being able to talk about your experience and achievements matters. But increasingly, there is another layer that can strengthen your credibility, confidence and career positioning: what other people say about you. That's where social proof comes in. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore the role of social proof in procurement and how it can help procurement professionals and leaders better understand, evidence and communicate the value they bring. And social proof is about much more than collecting a few LinkedIn recommendations. We explore how feedback, advocacy and evidence from the people you've worked with can strengthen the story you tell about yourself, reinforce your professional reputation and even help you recognise strengths and impact you may have started to overlook yourself. Pasted markdown Pasted markdown In this episode, we talk about: What social proof actually means in a procurement careerWhy knowing your value and evidencing your value are two different thingsThe different forms of social proof you may already haveWhy other people's feedback can help build your own confidenceHow social proof can strengthen your wider career positioning and personal brandWhy building an evidence bank can be so valuable throughout your procurement careerHow social proof can support career conversations, interviews and future opportunitiesThe role of social proof in strengthening procurement's credibility and influence within an organisationIf you've ever found it uncomfortable talking about your own achievements, questioned the value you bring, or simply haven't thought about the evidence other people could provide to support your career story, this conversation may get you thinking differently. Because sometimes the most powerful evidence of your impact isn't what you say about yourself. It's what other pe...

EP65: Building Procurement Interview Confidence: How to Be Ready Before the Opportunity Arrives

Oct 5, 2026 33 min

Send us Fan Mail How interview-ready are you right now? Not when you've got an interview in the diary. Right now. Because procurement opportunities don't always arrive when you're expecting them to. An internal opportunity can come up, someone in your network can make an introduction, or an initial conversation can suddenly turn into something more. And if you haven't interviewed for a while, that can feel pretty daunting. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore what it really takes to build interview confidence and why your preparation shouldn't necessarily start when the interview lands. We talk about why interview confidence is about much more than preparing answers to potential questions, what you can do before you even know what the opportunity might be, and some of the mindset shifts that can completely change how you approach an interview. We also explore: Why knowing your own value mattersWhat you can prepare well before an interviewMoving from interview nerves to having a conversationWhy focusing too much on the competition can work against youWhy an 'informal chat' might matter more than you thinkThe mindset you take into each stage of the interview processWhy becoming better at interviews can help you well beyond your job searchIf it's been a while since your last interview, you're considering your next procurement move, or you simply want to feel more prepared when the right opportunity comes along, this episode is for you. Get in Touch You can now receive even more insights from us and have the opportunity to engage with us privately by joining our Procurement Pivots email community. Over the coming weeks, we'll be focusing on helping you to end 2026 on a high and think more intentionally about the year ahead. Join the Procurement Pivots email community here: https://procurementpivots.com/email-list If you'd like to explore working with Procurement Pivots Podcast, or with either of us individually, you can c...

EP64: You Already Have a Personal Brand in Procurement. Does Yours Reflect Who You Are Now and Where You're Heading Next?

Sep 28, 2026 29 min

Send us Fan Mail You already have a personal brand. The question is, does it reflect who you are today, what you want to be known for and where you're heading next in your procurement career? Personal branding can be an uncomfortable topic. It can sound loud, showy or inauthentic. But your personal brand isn't about becoming someone you're not. And it certainly isn't just about what you post on LinkedIn. It's about how people experience you, what they associate with you and what's being said about you when you're not in the room. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore what personal branding really means for procurement professionals and leaders, and why it matters both inside your organisation and across the wider procurement market. Because as your career evolves, your personal brand needs to evolve with it. Sometimes, without even realising it, we can outgrow the brand we've built. In this episode, we explore: What personal branding really means in procurementWhy you already have a personal brand, whether you've intentionally created it or notWhy personal branding doesn't have to mean being loud or constantly visibleThe importance of authenticity in how you show upHow your personal brand can evolve as your career and leadership evolveHow to decide what you most want to be known forWhy taking control of your own career narrative mattersHow your CV, LinkedIn presence, meetings, conversations and everyday interactions all contribute to your personal brandWhy consistency helps build trust and strengthen your reputationHow your personal brand can influence the opportunities, projects and conversations that come your wayYour personal brand isn't about creating a polished version of yourself for other people. It's about becoming more intentional about what you want to be known for and making sure the way you show up reinforces it. So, what are you known for today? And is that what you want to be known for in the next phase o...

EP63: 100 Days to Go: There's Still Time to Change Your Results in 2026 and How You Feel about the Year Ahead

Sep 21, 2026 24 min

Send us Fan Mail There are 100 days to go until the end of 2026. How do you want to feel when you get there? And how do you want to step into 2027? September can bring a renewed sense of energy. But it doesn't always last long. Workloads increase, demands return and before you know it, you're back in the day-to-day with the end of the year approaching quickly. In this episode of Procurement Pivots Podcast, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore how procurement professionals and leaders can use the final 100 days of 2026 to pause, reflect on the year so far and become more intentional about their career, leadership and priorities for the months ahead. Because 100 days is still a significant amount of time. Whether 2026 has gone exactly as you'd hoped, taken an unexpected turn, or there are things in your procurement career or role that you still want to change, there is time to make meaningful progress and set yourself up well for 2027. Rather than immediately focusing on everything you haven't done, Donna and Laura encourage you to start by recognising what has already happened. What are you proud of? What have you enjoyed? What have you learned? What challenges have you overcome? And what does that tell you about what you want more of in your career? In this episode, we explore: Why looking back can be an important part of moving your procurement career forwardThe questions to ask yourself as you reflect on 2026 so farWhy career reflection should go beyond targets, projects and achievementsWhat's giving you energy in your career and what's draining itHow you want to feel when you reach the end of 2026What would make you feel pleased, proud or delighted with how the year endsIdentifying what could get in the way over the next 100 daysWhat you might want to finish, change or leave behind in 2026How to turn your career goals and priorities into manageable milestonesThe role of writing things down, sharing your intentions and creating accountabilityWhy recognising smal...

EP62: Why a Good Procurement CV Might Not Be Enough in 2026

Sep 14, 2026 39 min

Send us Fan Mail The procurement job market has changed. Competition for senior procurement roles has increased, hiring processes have evolved and technology is playing a greater role in how applications are screened. Which means the CV that successfully opened doors for you two, three or four years ago might not be enough to secure an interview today. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore what senior procurement professionals need to think differently about when it comes to their CV in 2026. Drawing on Donna's experience of reviewing thousands of procurement CVs since moving into procurement recruitment in 2013, alongside the CV work she now does with senior procurement clients, they unpack some of the most common reasons even experienced and highly capable procurement leaders can struggle to stand out on paper. We discuss: Why a professionally written CV can still struggle to cut through in today's procurement marketWhy your CV shouldn't read like a job descriptionThe difference between describing what you've done and demonstrating the impact you've hadWhy results and metrics need context if you want the reader to understand their significanceWhy you can't expect a hiring manager or recruiter to join the dots for youHow to bring more of your personality, leadership style and individual approach onto the pageWhy trying to showcase everything you're good at can actually dilute your positioningHow to identify and elevate the two or three strengths you really want to be known forWhy senior procurement professionals often downplay their achievements and valueHow to communicate your successes without feeling as though you're braggingWhy your CV should be treated as a positioning tool rather than an administrative taskHow doing the deeper work behind your CV can strengthen your confidence and interview performanceWhy AI can sometimes make your CV blend in rather than stand outHow to use AI as a tool without allowing it to take over...

EP 61: Using Boundaries to Elevate Your Impact as a Procurement Leader

Sep 7, 2026 31 min

Send us Fan Mail Procurement leadership, workplace boundaries, strategic leadership, career progression, prioritisation and high performance are more closely connected than you might think. When we talk about boundaries at work, they're often associated with saying no, being less available or protecting our personal time. But what if better boundaries could actually help you become a more impactful procurement leader? In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore why boundaries aren't simply about doing less. Used well, they can create the clarity, focus and space you need to operate more strategically, make better decisions and deliver greater impact. We discuss: Why boundaries are about far more than simply saying noWhy the desire to add value and prove procurement's worth can make boundaries particularly difficultThe relationship between boundaries, prioritisation and your ability to operate strategicallyWhy creating space to think can ultimately improve your decisions and outcomesHow to recognise the red flags that suggest you're repeatedly crossing your own boundariesWhy frustration can be a sign that your boundaries, or even your values, are being compromisedHow repeatedly going above and beyond can turn an exception into an expectationWhy being the busiest and most dependable person doesn't necessarily make you the obvious choice for progressionHow managing your workload and priorities can help you appear more in control and ready to take on greater responsibilityWhy boundaries can help procurement leaders move from operational busyness towards greater strategic impactHow boundaries can give you greater control when so much around you feels outside your controlWhy your boundaries need to evolve as your role, career and life evolveBecause more busyness doesn't necessarily mean more impact. And it doesn't automatically lead to bigger and better opportunities. Strong boundaries can help you become clearer about what matters, commu...

EP60: The Procurement Career Crossroads No One Prepares You For

Aug 31, 2026 37 min

Send us Fan Mail Procurement careers, career crossroads, career clarity, procurement leadership, career change and senior procurement job search can all collide at a point that many successful procurement leaders simply aren't expecting. On paper, everything might look good. You've built a successful procurement career. You're operating at leadership level. You're in a good organisation, perhaps with a team you enjoy working with. But something doesn't feel quite right anymore. You know you're ready for something different, or perhaps something more, but you're not entirely sure what that looks like yet. And when there isn't an obvious reason to leave, that uncertainty can be surprisingly difficult to navigate. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore the procurement career crossroads that no one really prepares you for and how to navigate it with greater clarity, confidence and intention. We discuss: Why career crossroads can appear even when everything looks good on paperHow changes in your life, priorities and values can change what you need from your careerThe danger of drifting through a successful career without consciously choosing where you're headingThe early signs that something in your career may no longer be serving youWhy career clarity doesn't start with your CV, job boards or the external marketHow understanding your strengths, values and what energises you can help uncover the right directionWhy there's an important difference between responding to a crossroads and reacting to oneHow rushing into applications before you're clear can actually knock your confidence furtherWhy the right answer isn't necessarily leaving your organisation, or even your current roleHow clarity helps you become more selective about what you say yes and no toWhy people buy into your certainty, particularly at procurement leadership levelThe importance of understanding the why behind the what when deciding what comes nextBecause being at a...

EP59: What Procurement Transformation Really Requires from Leaders

Aug 24, 2026 34 min

Send us Fan Mail Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Coaching Procurement transformation, procurement leadership, coaching skills, stakeholder management, influencing skills and leadership development are increasingly interconnected. Successful procurement transformation isn't just about having the right strategy, processes, technology or technical procurement expertise. You also need to bring people with you. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna Bowden and Laura Sellers explore why developing coaching skills can give procurement leaders a competitive edge and help them create greater impact across their teams, stakeholders and organisations. We challenge the perception that coaching is simply a "soft" leadership skill and look at how the capabilities behind great coaching can translate into very real procurement and commercial outcomes. We discuss: Why coaching skills are increasingly relevant for today's procurement leadersWhy you don't need to have all the answers to demonstrate credibility as a leaderHow asking better questions can strengthen your influence and impactWhy procurement transformation requires you to bring people with youHow coaching skills can help overcome resistance and create greater stakeholder buy-inThe connection between coaching, stakeholder relationships and commercial outcomesHow active listening, self-awareness and adaptability can strengthen your negotiation skillsWhy many procurement leaders may already be coaching without recognising itHow developing your coaching skills can change not only how you lead others, but how you lead yourselfThe difference between using coaching skills informally and developing them more intentionally through training and reflective practiceBecause successful procurement transformation isn't only about what you change. It's also about how effectively you can engage, influence and enable the people who will ultimately make that transformation happen. Get in Touch If this episode resonated, we'...

EP 58: What Successful Procurement Leaders Do Differently with Stakeholders

Aug 17, 2026 39 min

Send us Fan Mail Procurement stakeholder management, stakeholder relationships, procurement leadership, influence, business partnering and procurement careers are all critical to becoming a successful procurement leader. Strong stakeholder relationships don't happen by chance. They're built through trust, curiosity, credibility and consistency. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore what successful procurement leaders do differently when it comes to building relationships and influence across their organisations. Whilst technical procurement skills remain important, your ability to understand, engage and influence stakeholders will often determine your long-term success as a leader. We discuss: Why successful stakeholder relationships start long before you need somethingThe difference between managing stakeholders and genuinely building relationshipsHow curiosity helps you understand what really matters to your stakeholdersWhy listening is one of the most underrated leadership skills in procurementHow adapting your communication style builds trust and credibilityWhy consistency in your actions shapes your reputation over timeThe importance of understanding your stakeholders' priorities, pressures and motivationsHow every interaction contributes to procurement's reputation within the businessWhy influence is built through credibility, empathy and adding value, not authorityPractical ways to strengthen your stakeholder relationships and increase your impact as a procurement leaderThis episode builds on many of the themes we explore around procurement leadership, influence and career progression. Because successful procurement leaders don't just manage stakeholders. They build trusted relationships that create lasting influence. New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify. Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots. Get in Touch If this episode resonated, we'd love to hear your thoughts. And if you'd like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with eit...

EP 57: You’ve Got the Role - Now What? How Your First Few Months Define Your Success as a Procurement Leader

Aug 10, 2026 27 min

Send us Fan Mail Procurement leadership, first 90 days, stepping into a new role, procurement career progression, stakeholder management and leadership success are all critical factors when moving into a new procurement leadership role. You’ve secured the role. But what you do next will define your success. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore how to successfully prepare for and step into a new procurement leadership role, focusing on what really matters in those first few months. Too often, procurement professionals invest heavily in securing the role, only to leave their transition and early impact to chance. This is where success is either accelerated or undermined. We discuss: How your first impressions shape your credibility with your boss, team and stakeholdersWhy stepping into a new role is an opportunity to reset how you show up as a leaderThe importance of understanding team dynamics, legacy and stakeholder expectationsWhy the reality of the role often differs from what you were told in the processHow to assess the maturity of the function and identify the real starting pointThe mental stretch and transition that comes with stepping into a new leadership roleHow to set boundaries early to protect your time, energy and decision-makingThe risk of trying to prove yourself too quickly and saying yes to everythingWhy alignment with your boss and stakeholders is critical, and how to check it effectivelyThe importance of building support around you, not just focusing on supporting othersThis episode builds on many of the themes we explore around procurement leadership, visibility and career progression. Because success in procurement isn’t just about securing the role. It’s about how you show up once you’re in it. New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Get in touch If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us...

EP 56: Are You Asking the Right Questions as a Procurement Leader? Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Curiosity

Aug 3, 2026 24 min

Send us Fan Mail Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Curiosity Curiosity is a critical skill in procurement leadership, yet many procurement professionals don’t fully understand how to apply it in their day-to-day role. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore how curiosity, questioning and self-awareness can elevate your procurement career, strengthen stakeholder relationships and improve decision making. We discuss: What curiosity really looks like in a procurement context and why it goes beyond simply asking more questionsHow asking the right questions can improve decision making, stakeholder relationships and business outcomesWhy many procurement professionals feel the pressure to have the answers, and how this can limit their effectivenessThe difference between open and closed questions, and how to use them more intentionally in meetings and conversationsHow curiosity helps you uncover what really matters, rather than accepting surface-level informationThe role of curiosity in building trust, collaboration and influence across the businessWhy curiosity starts with self, including understanding your own behaviours, reactions and decision makingHow self-awareness and curiosity work together to strengthen your leadership capabilityPractical ways to build curiosity as a habit in your day-to-day procurement roleThis episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around procurement leadership, influence and career progression. Because the most effective procurement leaders aren’t always the ones with the answers. They’re the ones asking the right questions. 🎧 New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Get in TouchIf this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com About Procurement Pivots We are passionate about supporting the people behind procureme...

EP 55: How Are You Really Coming Across at Work? Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Self-Awareness

Jul 27, 2026 25 min

Send us Fan Mail Successful Traits of Procurement Leaders: Self-Awareness How you see yourself isn’t always how others experience you. And that gap can have a significant impact on your procurement career, career progression and leadership development. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore the role self-awareness plays in procurement leadership and why it is such a critical, but often overlooked, capability. We discuss: What self-awareness really means in a procurement leadership contextWhy there is often a gap between intent and perceptionHow others may experience your communication, behaviour and leadership styleThe impact of low self-awareness on relationships, visibility and progressionWhy feedback is essential, but often avoidedHow self-awareness shapes your leadership presence and credibilityThe role it plays in managing stakeholders and teams effectivelyWhy it becomes even more important as you progress into more senior rolesHow small shifts in awareness can have a meaningful impact on how you leadThis episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around visibility, positioning and progression in procurement careers. Because how you show up matters. And how others experience you matters even more. Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com

EP 54: Why Your Relationship with Your Boss Matters More Than You Think

Jul 20, 2026 28 min

Send us Fan Mail Your relationship with your boss is one of the most important factors in your procurement career, career progression and leadership development. And yet, it’s often not given the attention it deserves. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore why this relationship has such a significant impact on your experience, progression and long-term career decisions. We discuss: Why this relationship can influence whether you stay or leave a roleWhy most relationships aren’t broken, but still aren’t working well enoughThe importance of taking time to reflect on what you needHow clarity and alignment shape a strong working relationshipWhy communication style is often the root of the challengeThe role your boss plays in advocating for you internallyWhy you need to take ownership of building and shaping the relationshipThe importance of understanding the pressures your boss is underWhy knowing your non-negotiables mattersHow building a wider support network can strengthen your positionThis episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around visibility, positioning and progression in procurement careers. Because doing a great job isn’t always enough. The relationship around you matters more than you might think. Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots

EP 53: Introverted in Procurement? How to Still Be Seen and Heard

Jul 13, 2026 25 min

Send us Fan Mail If you’re introverted in your procurement career, you might feel the pressure to be more visible, speak up more or show more confidence in meetings or whilst networking. And that doesn’t always feel natural. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore what it really means to be introverted in procurement and how you can still have impact, visibility and influence without changing who you are. We discuss: What introversion actually means and why it is often misunderstoodWhy many procurement professionals identify with introverted preferencesThe pressure to “speak up more” and how that shows up in procurement environmentsHow to prepare for meetings in a way that plays to your strengthsPractical ways to contribute in meetings without needing all the answersHow asking questions and making observations can increase your influenceHow to be visible and credible without being the loudest voiceThis episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored around visibility, positioning and influence in procurement careers. Because some of the most effective procurement professionals we see are introverted. Not despite it, but because of it. This is your last chance to sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 Sign up here: https://procurementpivots.com/home-page Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’d like to explore working with Procurement Pivots, or with either of us individually, you can contact us at hello@procurementpivots.com

EP 52: Why so many Procurement Professionals are Burning Out

Jul 6, 2026 26 min

Send us Fan Mail Burnout in procurement is becoming more common. And it’s not always for the reasons we think. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore why burnout is showing up more across procurement careers and what is really driving it. We discuss: Why burnout in procurement is increasing as the role continues to evolveThe pressure to constantly prove value and why this adds to the challengeWhy burnout is not just about long hours or workloadHow misalignment and the wrong environment can lead to burnout over timeThe impact of isolation, particularly at more senior levelsEarly warning signs including decision fatigue, withdrawal and changes in behaviourHow burnout affects confidence, relationships and decision makingWhat to look out for in your team as a leaderWhy high performers can often be most at riskThe importance of recognising the signs early and taking actionThis episode builds on many of the themes we’ve explored across the podcast around pressure, expectations and progression in procurement careers. Because burnout doesn’t always come from doing too much. It often comes from carrying too much for too long. Sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 Sign Up here: procurementpivots.com/home-page Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear from you. You can message us directly or connect via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.

EP 51: Internal Positioning – The Key to Progression in Senior Procurement Careers

Jun 29, 2026 26 min

Send us Fan Mail Internal progression in procurement doesn’t happen by default. You can be delivering, experienced and performing well in your role, and still find that the next opportunity doesn’t come. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we focus on internal positioning and why it is the missing link to progression in senior procurement careers. We explore what it really means to be seen as ready for the next level and how your day-to-day actions shape how others perceive your capability, potential and leadership. We discuss: Why internal progression is driven by perception, not just performanceHow your communication, consistency and contribution shape your positioningWhy you need to be seen operating at the next level before you are promotedThe importance of visibility with the right people, not just more visibilityHow internal opportunities are often created before they are advertisedThe role of relationships, sponsorship and advocacy in progressionWhy curiosity and cross-functional exposure can open new doorsHow to have the right conversations about your future without signalling that you want to leaveWhat it means to be opportunity ready and why it mattersThis episode builds on our previous conversation around performance versus progression and brings it into a practical, internal context. Because progression doesn’t happen when a role appears. It happens when you are already seen as the obvious choice. Sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear from you. You can message us directly or connect via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.

EP 50: The Gap We’re Seeing Between Performance and Progression in Procurement Careers

Jun 22, 2026 24 min

Send us Fan Mail We’ve reached our 50th episode of Procurement Pivots, and rather than looking back, we wanted to focus on what we’re consistently seeing across the procurement profession right now. There is a gap. A gap between performance and progression. We are working with capable, experienced procurement professionals who are doing a good job, delivering results and adding value. And yet, for many, that isn’t translating into the visibility, recognition or opportunities they expected. In this episode, we explore why that gap exists and what it really means for your career. We discuss: Why doing a good job is no longer enough in today’s procurement landscape The disconnect between what procurement delivers and how it is perceived Why capability is rarely the issue, even when confidence starts to dip The difference between knowing your value and showing it consistently How changes in ways of working are impacting visibility and progression Why progression now requires a shift in how you think, communicate and show up This episode brings together many of the themes we’ve explored across the podcast and connects them into one overarching insight: Progression is no longer a natural by-product of performance. It requires intention. Sign up for our Interactive Webinar to celebrate our first year anniversary on 15th July at 12PM UK time: 6 Ways to Elevate Your Impact and Progression As a Procurement Leader in 2026 If you’ve been listening, reflecting, and thinking about what comes next, this is your opportunity to take action. You’ll find the link to join us in the show notes. Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots If this episode resonated, we’d love to hear from you. You can message us directly or connect via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.

EP 49: Giving Feedback as a Procurement Leader to Drive Impact

Jun 15, 2026 28 min

Send us Fan Mail In procurement careers, your ability to give feedback to teams and stakeholders directly impacts performance, influence and progression. Yet it’s one of the most avoided leadership skills. Whether it’s not wanting to upset someone, not knowing how to say it, or simply not making the time, many procurement leaders hold back from delivering the feedback their teams and stakeholders actually need. And when that happens, performance stalls, expectations become unclear, and frustration builds across procurement teams and stakeholder relationships. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore how to give feedback as a procurement leader in a way that is clear, constructive and genuinely impactful. Because feedback done well doesn’t just improve performance. It strengthens procurement careers, builds confidence, and improves how you influence and work with stakeholders. In this episode we explore Why giving feedback is often avoided in procurement leadership And the impact this has on teams and stakeholder relationshipsWhy feedback must be intentional, not reactive Moving from ad hoc conversations to a consistent leadership approachThe risks of vague or unclear feedback Why general comments don’t help people or stakeholders improveHow to give feedback that actually lands Being specific, relevant and focused on impactWhy feedback needs to flow in all directions Across teams, stakeholders and senior leadershipThe role of feedback in building high-performing procurement teams Creating clarity, ownership and accountabilityHow poorly delivered feedback can have lasting effects On confidence, performance and perceptionPractical frameworks to improve your feedback conversations Including Radical Candor and the SBI (Situation, Behaviour, Impact) modelTakeaways A clearer understanding of how to give feedback effectively in procurement careersPractical ways to make feedback more specific, constructive and impactfulA reminder that avoiding feedback...

EP 48: The Feedback Gap: The Dangerous Truth About Where You Stand

Jun 8, 2026 26 min

Send us Fan Mail Do you actually know where you stand in your procurement career? Or are you making assumptions? At senior level, feedback often becomes limited, filtered or disappears altogether. And yet, this is exactly the point in your career where clarity matters most. Without it, you risk making decisions based on perception rather than reality. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore what we’re calling the Feedback Gap - the space between how you think you’re performing and how you’re actually perceived. Because if you don’t have that clarity, it’s very difficult to move forward with confidence. In this episode we explore Why feedback reduces as you become more senior (and why this creates risk, not reassurance)The gap between perception and realityHow assumptions quietly shape your career decisionsWhy many procurement professionals feel undervalued (and how lack of feedback contributes to that)The risks of operating without clear feedbackBlind spots, misalignment and missed opportunitiesWhy waiting for feedback doesn’t work at senior level and what to do insteadHow to ask for more meaningful, targeted feedbackMoving beyond vague questions to get real insightThe importance of seeking different perspectivesNot just feedback from those who already rate you highlyHow to use feedback to strengthen your positioningBuilding credibility, visibility and confidenceTakeaways A clearer understanding of the Feedback Gap and why it existsPractical insight into how to create your own feedback loopsA reminder that assumptions can quietly hold your career backEncouragement to seek clarity before making career decisionsHosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly: Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Do you actually know where you stand… or are you assuming? Messa...

EP 47: The Truth About “Underperforming” Procurement Teams

Jun 1, 2026 23 min

Send us Fan Mail “Underperforming team.” It’s a label that gets used quickly in procurement. But what if it’s not the full picture? In today’s market, procurement teams are under more pressure than ever. Expectations are rising. Resources are stretched. Change is constant. And what looks like underperformance is often something else entirely. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore what’s really going on behind so-called “underperforming” procurement teams, and what leaders need to focus on to turn things around. Because this isn’t always about capability. It’s about context, clarity and leadership. In this episode we explore Why “underperformance” is often misdiagnosedLooking beyond the label to understand what’s really happeningThe role of environment, pressure and unrealistic expectationsWhy teams may be stretched rather than strugglingThe importance of trust and psychological safetyHow breakdowns in trust impact performance and engagementWhy morale matters more than many leaders realiseThe impact of constant change, restructures and shifting expectationsThe role of leadership in creating clarity and directionWhy repetition, consistency and visibility are essentialHow to rebuild performance as a team, not just as a leaderCreating shared ownership, not top-down instructionThe power of small wins in rebuilding confidence and momentumShifting mindset through progress and recognitionWhy the narrative you create shapes the team you becomeMoving away from labels and towards a new identity Takeaways A clearer understanding of what sits behind “underperformance” in procurement teamsPractical insight into how leaders can diagnose and respond more effectivelyA reminder that performance issues are often rooted in environment, not individualsEncouragement to lead with clarity, visibility and trust to rebuild momentumHosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Pro...

EP 46: The Most Important Question in Your Procurement Career

May 25, 2026 22 min

Send us Fan Mail “Tell me about yourself.” It sounds simple. But in reality, it’s one of the most important and most underutilised questions in your procurement career. It shows up everywhere: Interviews. Stakeholder meetings. Networking conversations. New projects. And how you answer it shapes how people see you. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore why this question carries so much weight, and how procurement professionals can use it more intentionally to build confidence, credibility and influence. Because this isn’t about walking through your CV. It’s about positioning. In this episode we explore: Why this question matters more than most people realiseHow your answer shapes perception, credibility and opportunityThe common mistakes procurement professionals makeChronological answers that miss the opportunity to position your valueWhy this isn’t about selling yourselfThe difference between self-promotion and helping others understand your impactHow to structure a strong and confident answerPresent positioning, what you’re known for and why it mattersWhy relevance is everythingTailoring your message for interviews, stakeholders and networkingHow this question can set the tone in interviewsOne of the few moments where you control the direction of the conversationWhy your professional identity goes beyond your job titleEspecially important when you’re between roles or navigating changeHow to evolve your message as your career developsKeeping your positioning aligned to where you’re going nextTakeaways A clearer understanding of why this is one of the most important questions in your procurement careerA practical structure to answer it with confidence and clarityA reminder that if people don’t understand your value, they won’t recognise itEncouragement to be intentional with how you position yourself in every interactionHosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Co...

EP 45: The Uncomfortable Truth About Procurement Career Growth

May 18, 2026 19 min

Send us Fan Mail Procurement career growth often feels uncomfortable. As procurement careers evolve, many professionals are being asked to step into greater visibility, leadership and influence. You may want more impact, more progression or a more aligned role. But stepping outside your comfort zone, whether that’s speaking up in meetings, building your presence on LinkedIn or developing leadership confidence, can feel unfamiliar and uncertain. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore why discomfort is a natural and necessary part of career growth, and how to navigate it with more clarity and intention. Because staying where it feels comfortable may feel safe, but it often leads to stalled procurement career progression. In this episode we explore: Why procurement career growth feels uncomfortable The gap between where you are today and where you want to get toHow the comfort zone can quietly hold you back Why staying where things feel safe can limit progression, visibility and career developmentThe three zones of growth: comfort, stretch and panic Understanding where confidence is built and where it can be lostWhy many procurement professionals overwhelm themselves before they start Jumping straight to the end goal rather than breaking it down into manageable stepsHow to take practical, incremental steps forward Building confidence and leadership presence through action, not overthinkingRethinking visibility and influence in procurement Why you don’t need to be the loudest voice to have impact with stakeholdersApplying this to real scenarios From speaking up in meetings to using LinkedIn more intentionally without needing to postWhy clarity reduces fear Separating what is genuinely challenging from what feels overwhelmingTakeaways A clearer understanding of why discomfort is part of procurement career growthA practical framework to help you step outside your comfort zone with more confidenceA reminder that consistent stretch drives career prog...

EP 44: The Procurement Development Gap and How to Close It

May 11, 2026 36 min

Send us Fan Mail Procurement careers are evolving at pace. The remit is expanding. Expectations are rising. Pressure is increasing. Yet in many organisations, learning and development support has reduced, shifted or become less personalised. Some procurement professionals receive strong internal investment. Others receive very little. Even within the same organisation, the level of development can vary significantly. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura explore what we are calling the Procurement Development Gap. This is the space between where your career is heading and the skills, capability and confidence you are intentionally building. Career acceleration rarely happens by accident. It happens through clarity, ownership and aligned investment. In this episode we explore: Why the L&D landscape has shifted in procurement > How reduced or inconsistent development support is impacting procurement careers What the Procurement Development Gap really looks like > The difference between evolving role expectations and personal capability building How to carry out a meaningful gap analysis > Identifying where you are now, where you want to go and what may be holding you back Why progression is often about leadership presence, influence and impact > Not just technical or category expertise Avoiding overwhelm in an age of information overload > How to prioritise what will genuinely move the needle The ROI of investing in your own professional development > Considering time, energy and financial investment with intention How to build a business case for support > Why development conversations can form part of annual reviews, salary discussions and retention strategies The power of accountability and aligned support > From coaching and mentoring to peer conversations and targeted learning Takeaways A clearer understanding of the Procurement Development GapPractical guidance on prioritising procurement professional development with intentionEncouragement to...

EP 43: Speak to Be Seen: How Procurement Professionals Gain Influence

May 4, 2026 35 min

Send us Fan Mail Communication sits at the heart of every procurement career. You can be technically strong, commercially capable and consistently deliver results. But if your communication does not land, your influence, credibility and progression can stall. In this episode, Donna and Laura explore why communication is one of the most powerful differentiators in procurement today. They discuss how self-awareness shapes the way you show up, why your style must evolve as your stakeholder audience becomes more senior, and how subtle shifts in tone, pace and language can significantly elevate how you are perceived. They also explore how AI and remote working are diluting personal voice, why many procurement professionals feel unheard or undervalued, and how influence is built through clarity rather than volume. If you want to operate more strategically, strengthen your presence and gain influence without compromising who you are, this conversation is for you. In this episode we explore Why communication underpins influence in procurement How your ability to translate procurement value into business language shapes how seriously you are taken.Understanding your natural communication style Why self-awareness is the foundation for confidence, adaptability and stronger stakeholder relationships.Tactical versus strategic communication How tone, clarity and delivery must evolve as your stakeholder audience becomes more senior.Confidence, perception and personal brand How posture, word choice and presence influence how others interpret your capability.The risk of diluted voice How AI-generated content and remote working can weaken your impact if you are not intentional.Influence without politics How to navigate communication dynamics while maintaining integrity and authenticity.Takeaways A clearer understanding of how communication shapes procurement career progression.Practical reflection points to help you identify where your current style is working and where small shifts...

EP 42: When Did Networking Become So Uncomfortable in Procurement Careers?

Apr 27, 2026 37 min

Send us Fan Mail For many procurement professionals, the word networking triggers discomfort. Awkward. Inauthentic. Contrived. Embarrassing. And yet, relationship-driven opportunities remain one of the most powerful drivers of procurement career progression. In this episode of Procurement Pivots, Donna and Laura unpack why networking has become so emotionally loaded in procurement careers, and why avoiding it may be quietly limiting your opportunities. They explore the mindset barriers, the assumptions and the cultural narratives that make networking feel uncomfortable. More importantly, they reframe networking for what it truly is: building meaningful professional relationships. Because procurement careers are not built through applications alone. They are built through trust, visibility and connection. In this episode we explore Why the word networking carries so much emotional weight in procurement How negative associations can create avoidance and self-doubt.The reality of how procurement roles are secured Why the majority of opportunities come through relationships, not job boards.Reframing networking as relationship building How shifting language changes behaviour and confidence.Different ways to network that align with your personality From one-to-one conversations to planned event meetings and virtual connections.The pressure of networking when job seeking Why urgency makes networking feel harder and how to approach it differently.The importance of preparation and follow-up How the real relationship often begins after the initial conversation.Building your network before you need it Why proactive relationship building creates long-term career leverage.Takeaways A reframed understanding of networking in procurement careers. Practical ways to approach external relationship building with greater confidence and intention. Encouragement to shift from transactional thinking to genuine connection. A reminder that sometimes one conversation can change everything. Ho...

EP 41: The Procurement Visibility Gap: What Your LinkedIn Might Be Costing You

Apr 20, 2026 47 min

Send us Fan Mail In today’s procurement career market, visibility is no longer optional. Yet many procurement professionals remain hesitant, quiet or completely invisible on LinkedIn. This episode tackles the uncomfortable but important question. What is your LinkedIn presence quietly costing your procurement career? In a market shaped by restructuring, increased competition and fewer internal opportunities, LinkedIn has become a powerful career lever. Not just for job searching, but for positioning, credibility, discoverability and influence. And yet procurement as a profession is still significantly underrepresented compared to other corporate functions. In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore the visibility gap in procurement careers. They unpack the fears that hold professionals back, the myths around posting and self-promotion, and the real opportunity cost of staying silent. This is not about becoming louder. It is about becoming intentional. In this episode we explore The fear versus reality of LinkedIn visibility Why worries about judgement, ego and self-promotion are often stronger than the actual risk.Why posting is not step one The overlooked foundations of LinkedIn that create career leverage without constant content creation.LinkedIn as a search engine for procurement careers How profile optimisation impacts recruiter searches, internal mobility and external opportunity.Visibility versus ego Why showing your value is not arrogance, but education.Procurement’s visibility gap Why procurement professionals are behind other corporate functions and why that creates a differentiation opportunity.Comfort zone, stretch and growth How to build visibility in manageable steps rather than jumping into fear.The hidden cost of staying invisible How silence limits optionality, credibility and career control.Takeaways A clearer understanding of how LinkedIn impacts procurement career progression, even when you are not actively job seeking. Practical reflections t...

EP 40: Internal Leverage: The Procurement Career Advantage Many Miss

Apr 13, 2026 40 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore a topic that often feels uncomfortable but quietly shapes careers more than performance alone: internal networking. Many procurement professionals associate networking with politics, self-promotion or big events. But internal leverage is not about being the loudest in the room. It is about building genuine, consistent relationships that create influence, sponsorship and long-term career optionality. Donna and Laura unpack why internal networking feels emotive, how fear of perception holds professionals back, and why clarity of purpose changes everything. They discuss how procurement’s unique cross-functional position creates powerful opportunity, and how relationships built beyond projects can open doors you did not even know existed. This conversation reframes internal networking from something awkward or transactional into something strategic, intentional and career-defining. In this episode we explore: Why internal networking feels uncomfortable How fear of judgement and misconceptions about personality types stop capable professionals from building influence.Purpose before action The importance of knowing whether you are building relationships to perform better, increase visibility or position yourself for future opportunities.Starting with what you already have How to leverage existing strengths, stakeholder maps and past relationship success to build confidence.Moving beyond project-based relationships Why the strongest careers are built on connections that continue after the work ends.Procurement’s unique cross-functional advantage How the touchpoints across the organisation create opportunities for influence, sponsorship and even career pivots.Consistency over intensity Why showing up steadily and genuinely builds more leverage than transactional networking.Takeaways A reframed view of internal networking as strategic career leverage rather than self-promotion. Practical reflection points to...

EP 39: From Operational to Strategic Procurement - The Reality Behind the Shift

Apr 6, 2026 45 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we unpack one of the most talked-about transitions in the profession: the move from operational to strategic procurement. We hear it everywhere. Procurement must become more strategic. Roles are evolving. Expectations are rising. But what does that shift actually mean in practice? And why does it feel harder than it sounds? In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore the realities behind the operational to strategic transition. They discuss why the word “strategic” is often misunderstood, how misalignment creates frustration, and why many procurement professionals feel stuck between firefighting and future thinking. This episode shines a light on the behavioural, relational and mindset shifts required to move beyond operational delivery and into strategic influence. In this episode we explore: Defining what “strategic” really means Why the word is frequently used but rarely clarified, and how misalignment creates career friction.Context matters How operational and strategic procurement look different depending on sector, organisation and leadership appetite.The gap analysis Understanding whether the real gap is skills, relationships, visibility, confidence or support.Stop waiting for permission Why strategic influence often begins before the title changes.Visibility and communication The risk of internalising ambition and assuming others know what you want.Strategic does not mean political Why influence is not manipulation and how values-led leadership still drives results.The role of relationships How stakeholder trust and advocacy accelerate strategic progression.Takeaways Clarity on what strategic procurement means in your current environment.A practical framework to assess the gap between where you are and where you want to be.Encouragement to take ownership of small, intentional shifts rather than waiting for a promotion.A reminder that strategic behaviour often precedes strategic titles.Hosted by Donna...

EP 38: Owning Your Strengths: The Competitive Advantage in Procurement Careers

Mar 30, 2026 30 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Procurement Pivots, we explore why owning your strengths is not simply a development exercise and how procurement professionals can use their strengths to accelerate their careers. This is a strategic advantage in your procurement career. We often hear the advice to “know your strengths.” But many procurement professionals either underestimate what they bring, build their careers around strengths they do not enjoy using, or assume others automatically see their value. In a competitive and evolving procurement landscape, technical competence alone is not enough. The real differentiator lies in how you bring your strengths to life, how clearly you communicate them, and whether you are intentionally building your career around them. In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore how strengths shape confidence, influence and long-term career satisfaction. They discuss why understanding your strengths deeply matters, how overusing them can create blind spots, and how to close the gap between knowing your strengths and being known for them. This episode shines a light on the practical and strategic role strengths play in career progression, visibility and opportunity within procurement. In this episode we explore: Why strengths are foundational to career confidenceHow truly understanding your strengths creates clarity and momentum.The difference between being good at something and enjoying itWhy competence alone is not enough to sustain long-term career growth.How strengths leave patterns across your careerIdentifying recurring themes, feedback and moments of success that reveal your true strengths.The visibility gapThe difference between knowing your strengths and ensuring others recognise and value them.When strengths become overusedHow attention to detail, leadership, negotiation or relationship building can become liabilities under pressure.Gathering meaningful feedbackPractical ways to uncover blind spots and ask the right question...

EP 37: Resetting as a Procurement Team After Restructure

Mar 23, 2026 29 min

Send us Fan Mail Navigating Restructure in Procurement Series – Part 4 In this final episode of our four-part series on navigating restructure in procurement, we turn our attention to the team perspective. We have explored what happens when you exit an organisation, when you remain following change, and what leadership looks like in times of uncertainty. Now we focus on the collective impact. Because restructures do not just affect individuals. They reshape team dynamics, trust, identity and performance. In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore the responsibility and opportunity procurement teams have to reset intentionally after change. They discuss how trust can quietly erode, how old loyalties and tensions can linger beneath the surface, and why reconnecting as a team is not a luxury but a necessity for future performance. This episode shines a light on how procurement teams can rebuild confidence, strengthen relationships and move forward together with clarity and purpose. In this episode we explore 1. The team’s responsibility to lead through change Why leadership does not sit solely with the title holder and how team members can influence culture, standards and morale. 2. Re-establishing team identity and shared values How defining who you want to be as a team creates stability and belonging after disruption. 3. Trust, tension and unspoken dynamics after restructure Why unresolved issues can sit beneath the surface and what healthy teams do differently. 4. The ripple effect on stakeholder relationships How internal unity directly impacts how procurement is perceived across the wider business. 5. Creating space to reconnect in a resource-stretched world Why taking time to reset strategically builds long-term momentum and performance. 6. Recognising small wins to rebuild resilience How collective recognition strengthens morale and reinforces progress during uncertain periods. Takeaways A deeper understanding of how restructures affect team dynamics long aft...

EP 36: The Procurement Leader’s Role in Times of Uncertainty

Mar 16, 2026 28 min

Send us Fan Mail Navigating Restructure in Procurement Series – Part 3 In this third episode of our four-part series on navigating restructures in procurement, we shift the lens to the procurement leader. Leading a team through organisational change can be one of the most challenging responsibilities in a senior role. You are supporting others while also managing your own emotions, dealing with ambiguity and being pulled in multiple directions by the business, stakeholders and your team. In this conversation, Donna and Laura explore what makes this leadership moment so uniquely complex, why it can feel isolating and how leaders can maintain clarity, presence and steadiness even when they do not have all the answers. They also discuss the role modelling effect leaders have, and how small actions and consistent communication can rebuild confidence and cohesion across the team. Whether you are leading through change right now or preparing yourself for future transitions, this episode offers grounded perspective and practical guidance to help you navigate uncertainty with intention. In this episode we explore: 1. The conflicting pressures placed on procurement leaders How leaders are often managing their own emotional responses while also carrying the expectations of the business and the needs of their team. 2. Why visibility and consistent messaging matter more than ever How being present, available and clear helps reduce anxiety and uncertainty across the team. 3. Role modelling calm, clarity and stability during change Why the way a leader shows up shapes how the team experiences the transition and regains confidence. 4. Communicating honestly when you do not have all the answers How transparency can build trust and reduce speculation in periods of ambiguity. 5. Resetting priorities and stakeholder expectations The importance of realigning goals, boundaries and resource levels so the team can deliver sustainably after restructuring. 6. Finding the right support for y...

EP 35: Rebuilding Confidence After Internal Change

Mar 9, 2026 33 min

Send us Fan Mail Navigating Restructure in Procurement Series – Part 2 In Part 2 of our series on navigating restructure in procurement, Donna and Laura shift the focus to those who remain in the organisation after change has taken place. While redundancy often dominates the conversation, staying through a restructure comes with its own emotional, relational and professional challenges, many of which go unspoken. Internal change can shake confidence, disrupt team and stakeholder dynamics, alter relationships and create prolonged periods of uncertainty. In this episode, Donna and Laura explore what really happens beneath the surface when you stay, why it affects people so differently, and how you can rebuild clarity and confidence during times of ongoing organisational change. This episode is for anyone who is currently navigating internal restructure, leading through it, or preparing themselves for the reality of continuous change in the procurement landscape. In this episode we explore: The emotional impact of staying after a restructure: why guilt, relief, fear and doubt can coexist, even when your role is secure.The long periods of uncertainty leading up to structural decisions: how whispers, speculation and lack of clarity can create stress that builds over time.The importance of acknowledging your emotional response: why suppressing how you feel makes it harder to move forward with confidence.Changing dynamics with colleagues and stakeholders: how role changes, competition and leadership turnover alter relationships and influence.Managing fear based behaviours and protecting your energy: how to separate reaction from response and stay grounded in challenging environments.The value of support networks and safe spaces: why speaking with trusted people helps you process change constructively.Noticing opportunity within disruption: how restructure can also create moments of reset, clarity and positive career shifts.Reconnecting with yourself and what you want long...

EP 34: Building Momentum After Redundancy

Mar 2, 2026 39 min

Send us Fan Mail Navigating Restructure in Procurement – Series Part 1 In this new four part series, we explore the realities of navigating restructure in today’s procurement landscape. And in this first episode, we explore one of the most challenging experiences a procurement professional can face: being made redundant. Redundancy is never a simple moment. It brings waves of emotion, identity questions and uncertainty about what comes next. But it can also mark the beginning of a more aligned chapter once the dust settles. In this conversation, Donna and Laura break down what actually happens in those first days and weeks, how to process the emotional impact and the small intentional steps that help you rebuild confidence and regain momentum. Whether you are experiencing redundancy right now, supporting someone who is or simply preparing yourself for future change, this episode offers grounded, compassionate guidance for navigating the transition with clarity and strength. In this episode we explore: 1. The emotional rollercoaster of redundancy Why feelings such as shame, fear, relief and hope often coexist and why every emotion you experience is valid. 2. Identity, confidence and the impact of loss How much of our identity is tied to our role and what happens when that structure suddenly disappears. 3. The importance of self compassion and self care Why rest, routine and stepping away from the “job search hamster wheel” are essential for perspective and resilience. 4. Moving from overwhelm to clarity Why diving straight into CV updates or scattergun applications rarely works and what to focus on instead. 5. Small steps that rebuild momentum How to regain a sense of control through manageable actions, reflection and reconnecting with your strengths and achievements. 6. Learning from regret without staying stuck How to use “I wish I had…” moments as insight for the future rather than punishment for the past. 7. Why support matters more than ever The role of communit...

EP 33: Building Stronger Procurement Teams Through the 7-Step P.R.O.C.U.R.E® Framework

Feb 23, 2026 29 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Laura takes us behind the scenes of the team coaching work she has been delivering across procurement functions in the UK and internationally. While most leaders approach her with a specific challenge or goal in mind, the deeper work almost always centers around one thing: impact. Using her 7-Step P.R.O.C.U.R.E Framework, Laura walks through the practical and human elements that shape how a procurement team performs, collaborates and influences. Whether you are leading a team, joining a new one, or navigating change, this episode offers an inside look at the patterns, behaviours and dynamics that determine real team impact. Donna guides the conversation, drawing out the lived examples, common challenges and practical steps leaders can take when their teams hit transition points, face recurring issues, or simply want to elevate performance. In this episode we explore 1. The real reason procurement leaders ask for team support Most requests are triggered by transition, change, or the desire to move from good to high performing. 2. Why understanding team PURPOSE matters The starting point of the P.R.O.C.U.R.E Framework and the foundation of choosing the right intervention. 3. The importance of assessing team REALITY Before any workshop or coaching begins, the team’s current state, emotions and needs must be understood. 4. How to surface OPPORTUNITY and move the team forward Creating space to explore what is possible, what can improve, and what commitments the team wants to make. 5. Common team CHALLENGES and how to approach them From category silos to tension after restructure, recurring issues often signal deeper needs that must be addressed safely. 6. Why UNDERSTANDING self is essential for team impact How confidence, mindset and identity shape how professionals show up in the room and how stakeholders experience the team. 7. The role of RELATIONSHIPS in procurement team performance Navigating dynamics, building alignment and strengt...

EP 32: 6 Steps to Position Yourself for a Successful External Move in 2026

Feb 16, 2026 44 min

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Donna and Laura revisit one of the most requested topics on the podcast: positioning, with a dedicated focus on external career moves. With the market shifting again and early signs of improvement for 2026, many procurement professionals are already considering whether this might be the year to explore a new role. The challenge is that the job market at senior level remains highly competitive, and the old approach of updating the CV and starting to apply is no longer enough. Drawing on 25+ years of combined experience across senior recruitment, career coaching and leadership development, Donna breaks down the six step positioning framework she uses with senior clients to help them stand out, build confidence and secure roles that genuinely align with their future direction. Whether you're actively seeking a new position or simply want to future-proof your career, this episode gives you the practical, honest guidance you need to navigate today’s market with clarity and intention. In this episode we explore 1. Why clarity must come before action How reconnecting with what you actually want transforms every part of the job search and why skipping this step leads to generic CVs, misaligned applications and lost confidence. 2. Understanding your unique value and story Why your experience alone is not what differentiates you and how to identify, articulate and confidently own the strengths that make you stand out. 3. Building a CV that tells a compelling narrative Why context matters as much as outcomes, the common mistakes that close doors and how to ensure your CV communicates impact rather than tasks. 4. Optimising your LinkedIn profile for visibility and credibility How hiring managers and researchers actually use LinkedIn and the essentials you need in place to be found for senior level roles. 5. The power of networking and the hidden job market Why most senior procurement roles are filled through relationships rather than adverts an...

EP 31: The Career Story Behind Coaching for Procurement

Feb 9, 2026 25 min

Send us Fan Mail Donna Bowden Interviews Laura Sellers This week, we continue our two-part mini-series where we turn the microphones on each other. After more than 30 episodes together, many listeners have asked a similar question. “How do the two of us support procurement professionals differently, and what does that look like in practice?” In last week’s episode, Laura interviewed Donna. This week, Donna interviews Laura. In this conversation, Laura shares the career journey that led her into executive and leadership coaching, why she chose to specialise in procurement, and how her business has evolved from one-to-one coaching into team coaching, leadership development programmes and coaching qualifications. Laura also talks about the pivotal experiences that shaped her coaching approach, the challenges she sees across procurement leadership teams, and why a confidential thinking partnership can be transformational for senior professionals navigating complexity, politics and change. In this episode we explore 1. How Coaching for Procurement began Laura’s journey from recruitment, to procurement leadership, to discovering coaching during the pandemic and building a business that supports leaders and teams at every stage of their evolution. 2. The challenges facing senior procurement leaders and teams Why restructures, shifting expectations and rising pressure make the leadership role feel heavier than ever and how coaching creates space to think, recover and rebuild. 3. Why senior leaders benefit from an external thinking partner The isolation that often comes with senior roles, the impact of internal politics, and the value of having a safe, neutral space to challenge assumptions and regain clarity. 4. How team coaching unlocks more than traditional training The silent dynamics that shape performance, the power of psychological safety, and why real progress happens when a team can speak honestly in the same room. 5. Advice for procurement leaders stepping into 202...

EP 30: The Career Story Behind Narrate Your Career

Feb 2, 2026 28 min

Send us Fan Mail Laura Sellers Interviews Donna Bowden This week, we are doing something a little different. After more than 25 episodes, one question has come up again and again from listeners. What do you both actually do and how do your coaching approaches differ? So for the next two episodes, we are interviewing each other. A small step outside our comfort zones, but an important one. Because so many procurement professionals are trying to understand what support they need and who to turn to at different stages of their career. We begin with Donna. In this conversation, Laura speaks with Donna about her journey from recruitment leader to procurement career coach, the purpose behind Narrate Your Career, the recurring patterns she sees in senior procurement careers, and why clarity and confidence are at the heart of all meaningful career progress. Donna also shares the moment her business name arrived at 1.23am, why so many people reach a crossroads without knowing what they want next, and the shift she hopes procurement professionals will make as they head into 2026. In this episode we explore 1. How Narrate Your Career began Why Donna stepped away from a successful recruitment career and built something new that supports procurement professionals in a deeper, more intentional way. 2. The challenges senior procurement professionals are facing today Why so many people feel stuck, overwhelmed or unsure of their next move and what this reveals about the evolving market. 3. Why clarity comes before action How getting clear on what you actually want transforms your confidence, your positioning and the opportunities that open up. 4. The importance of visibility and storytelling Why recognising your own achievements matters and how visibility impacts career progression at senior level. 5. Advice for procurement professionals planning for 2026 The mindset shifts, habits and reflections Donna believes will make the biggest difference this year. Takeaways A deeper unders...

EP 29: Securing the Support You Need to Achieve Your 2026 Goal

Jan 26, 2026 39 min

Send us Fan Mail Part 4: Your Procurement Pivot Plan for 2026: A 4-Step Series to Set, Shape and Achieve Your Career Goals This is the final episode in our four-part January series designed to help you set yourself up for sustainable, meaningful success in 2026. If you haven’t yet listened to Episodes 26-28, we recommend starting there and working through the series in order. In Part 4, we explore a crucial ingredient in achieving any goal: getting the right support and resources behind you. Whether you’re aiming for a promotion, planning a pivot, rebuilding confidence, or elevating your leadership presence, success isn’t a solo sport. Today we walk through the questions you need to ask to understand what you have, what you may be missing, and what will genuinely make the biggest difference to your progress. In this episode, we cover: How to assess whether you truly have the resources needed to reach your goalWhy a gap analysis often reveals far less “missing” than you thinkThe mindset barriers that stop many procurement professionals from asking for helpThe internal support available inside organisations (and how to choose the right people)The role external support can play, and why impartiality can transform clarity and momentumHow to build the network around you that supports (not stalls) your progressionBringing everything together to set yourself up for a successful, sustainable yearKey Takeaways: Understand what you already have, what’s missing, and what actually mattersBe honest about your mindset toward seeking supportUse your internal and external ecosystem intentionallyBuild the scaffolding that will sustain you through the year aheadIf you have questions or want to share your goal for 2026, we’d love to hear from you. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow on Li...

EP 28: Part 3 - Anticipating Obstacles and Strengthening Your Path Forward

Jan 19, 2026 23 min

Send us Fan Mail Part 3 of Your Procurement Pivot Plan for 2026: A 4-Step Series to Set, Shape and Achieve Your Career Goals In this third episode of the series, Donna and Laura explore the obstacles that can appear when you start moving towards a meaningful career goal. Some challenges are external. Others come from your own thinking. What matters most is preparing yourself to navigate them so you do not lose momentum when things get difficult. This episode helps you anticipate what might get in your way and strengthen your plan for the year ahead. Key Takeaways Look back at challenges you have overcome beforeYour past successes hold clues for how you can approach future obstacles.Understand what is external and what comes from withinClarity here helps you regain control and respond more effectively.Brainstorm possible obstacles before you beginGetting everything out of your head makes patterns and solutions easier to see.Prepare how you want to respond when setbacks ariseA little future thinking strengthens confidence and resilience.Build in regular check ins to stay on trackSmall, consistent reviews keep your momentum strong.Remember that obstacles do not mean failureThey are part of the process and often reveal the skills you already have.Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots Want to share your goal or ask a question? Message us via the Procurement Pivots LinkedIn page.

EP 27: Part 2 - Calibrating Your Goal

Jan 12, 2026 20 min

Send us Fan Mail Part 2 of of Your Procurement Pivot Plan for 2026: A 4-Step Series to Set, Shape and Achieve Your Career Goals Welcome back to our January series designed to help you set and achieve a meaningful and sustainable career goal for 2026. This is Part 2 of a 4-step journey and we strongly recommend listening to these episodes in order, as each step builds on the last. If you have not yet listened to Episode 26, start there to define the goal you want to focus on. Today, we help you go deeper and sense check whether that goal is truly right for you. What we cover in Part 2: In this episode, we take the goal you identified last week and help you calibrate it so that it becomes clearer, stronger and more achievable. This step is all about refining your intention and making sure your goal stands up to real life, not just early January enthusiasm. We explore: How to define the evidence that will prove you are making progressWhy anchoring your goal in what you will see, hear and feel increases motivationHow to identify meaningful milestones so you can track progress, not perfectionWhy your goal must be based on what is within your controlHow to assess the difference the goal will make and why this matters for long term commitmentThe benefits and costs to consider before fully committing to your chosen directionThis episode strengthens your goal so you move forward with clarity, confidence and a realistic plan for success. Why this step matters: A goal that has not been fully thought through will crumble as soon as life gets busy. A goal that has been properly tested and calibrated has real staying power. Part 2 helps you sense check, refine and confirm that the goal you chose last week is the right one for you and worth your time and energy. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement...

EP 26: Part 1 - Getting Clear on What You Really Want in 2026

Jan 5, 2026 25 min

Send us Fan Mail Part 1 of Your Procurement Pivot Plan for 2026: A 4-Step Series to Set, Shape and Achieve Your Career Goals This January, we are doing something different. For the first time on the Procurement Pivots Podcast, we are releasing a guided 4-part series designed to help you set and achieve meaningful and sustainable career goals for 2026. Unlike our usual episodes, we recommend listening to these four in order because each part builds on the last. By the end of the series, you will have a clear goal, a stronger plan and a far higher chance of sticking with it long after the early January motivation fades. What we cover in Part 1: In this opening episode, we help you get clear on the goal you genuinely want to pursue this year. Not the goal you think you should set. Not the one shaped by expectations or pressure. The one that will actually make a difference to your career and your wellbeing. We explore: Why so many goals lose momentum by week threeHow to define your goal in a way that is specific, positive and meaningfulThe core questions that reveal what you truly want, even if it feels unclear right nowHow to sense check whether your goal is achievable without dampening your ambitionWhy grounding your goal in your personal values is essentialHow reflecting on last year’s proudest moments can help you choose the right focus this yearThis episode gives you clarity, direction and the starting point you need to build a goal that feels authentic and energising. Why this step matters: A clear and well-aligned goal creates momentum. A vague or misaligned goal creates stress and stagnation. Part 1 ensures you set a goal that matters and one you will want to stay committed to as the year unfolds. Hosted by Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement New episodes weekly Listen on Apple and Spotify Watch on YouTube: Procurement Pivots Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pi...

EP 25: REFLECTIONS from Procurement Pivots 2025: The Key Insights to Help All of Us in 2026

Dec 29, 2025 30 min

Send us Fan Mail As we wrap up 2025, we’re closing the year with something a little different. This episode is an honest and uplifting reflection on the year just gone. We look back at the moments that shaped us, the lessons that surprised us, and the themes that consistently showed up in our work with procurement professionals across the industry. Whether your year felt full of progress, full of challenge, or a mix of both, this episode is designed to give you space to pause, notice the positives, and move into 2026 with intention. We talk through: What we’re most proud of this year, both personally and professionallyWhy recognising your own progress matters more than you thinkA challenge for you: share your proudest moment with someone you trustWhat to let go of as you move into 2026The habits and patterns we’re leaving firmly in 2025How to think about energy, boundaries and sustainability in a demanding careerWhat we want to do more of next year: joy, rest, connection and intentional growthWhy community and support networks make all the difference during career pivotsWe also share some candid reflections on running two growing businesses alongside the podcast, the partnership we’ve built, and the unexpected highs that have made this year such a rewarding one. Thanks for joining us on this journey. We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who has listened, shared, commented or reached out. Here’s to a more joyful, supported and intentional 2026. 👥 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement 📅 New episodes weekly 🎧 Listen on Apple and Spotify 📺 Full episodes available on YouTube: Procurement Pivots – YouTube 📌 Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots 💬 Got a topic or challenge you'd like us to cover? Message us via the page or contact Donna or Laura directly.

EP24: SUMMARY of the Procurement Pivots Podcast Episodes in 2025: The Common Patterns Behind Procurement Career Pivots

Dec 22, 2025 25 min

Send us Fan Mail Welcome to Episode 24 of the Procurement Pivots Podcast. In this final episode of our PIVOTS series, we take a step back and bring you a summary of everything we have covered so far. After more than twenty episodes exploring the themes that show up most often in procurement careers, we reflect on the patterns, lessons and insights that have emerged across all of our conversations. When we launched this podcast, our aim was simple. We wanted to create a practical and honest resource for procurement professionals at any stage of their career. A place to hear the topics that rarely get discussed openly, but that so many of you experience behind the scenes. And over the past year, you have told us how much these conversations have resonated. In this episode, we revisit the themes that have shaped the podcast so far, including: The topics procurement professionals come to coaching with most oftenThe threads that run underneath many of the episodesThe five common themes that emerged when we analysed every descriptionHow these topics link together to support confidence, clarity and career momentumWhy we see this podcast as a library you can return to whenever you reach a pivot pointWe also share what we have learned along the way, the moments that have surprised us and how progress over perfection has guided us throughout this journey. Whether you have listened from the beginning or are joining us for the first time, this episode brings together the core insights that sit behind the pivots so many procurement professionals navigate every year. Thanks for tuning in. We are so glad you are here. 👥 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement 📅 New episodes weekly 🎧 Listen on Apple and Spotify 📺 Watch full episodes on YouTube: Procurement Pivots 📌 Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots 💬 Got a topic or challenge you would love us to cover? Message us...

EP 23: TRIGGERS in Procurement Careers: Spot the Patterns That Keep Holding You Back

Dec 15, 2025 26 min

Send us Fan Mail What triggers you in your procurement career? In this episode, we explore a topic that quietly shapes confidence, decision making and momentum for so many procurement professionals. Triggers are the moments or situations that spark an emotional or behavioural response before you have even had the chance to think. Some are external, like restructures, job market pressures, stakeholder dynamics or even what you see online. Others are internal, such as perfectionism, stress responses, fear of being wrong or old patterns that resurface under pressure. We break down the difference between what happens around you and what gets activated within you, and why understanding both matters. You will hear real examples from our coaching work, including the emotional impact of LinkedIn, the anxiety that comes with networking, and the internal stress patterns that show up when confidence dips. We cover: How external events like change, restructures and market uncertainty trigger emotional reactionsWhy internal stress responses such as perfectionism and fear of not knowing the answer keep people stuckWhat repeated triggers can tell you about your needs, patterns and opportunities for growthThe power of awareness and how to widen the gap between reaction and responsePractical ways to reduce the impact of the triggers you cannot avoidThis conversation is especially relevant if you find small moments derailing your day, feel overwhelmed during periods of change or want to build more confidence and control in how you respond to challenging situations at work. Thanks for joining. We are so glad you are here. 👥 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement 📅 New episodes weekly 🎧 Listen on Apple and Spotify 📺 Full episodes available on YouTube: Procurement Pivots 📌 Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots 💬 Got a topic or challenge you would like us to cover? Drop i...

EP 22: OBSTACLES in Procurement Careers: The Mix of Internal and External Challenges Holding You Back

Dec 8, 2025 36 min

Send us Fan Mail What do you do when you feel stuck in your procurement career and cannot quite work out why? In this episode, we explore the wide range of obstacles that hold procurement professionals back, from the organisational challenges you face, to the people dynamics you navigate, to the internal blockers that quietly influence your confidence, motivation and momentum. Obstacles show up in many forms. Restructures can change your path overnight. Difficult stakeholders can drain your energy. Market conditions can make progress feel harder. Internal narratives can cause you to second guess your next move. We break down the different types of challenges our clients bring to coaching and share how to recognise what is really at play so you can regain clarity and control. We cover: • The three main categories of obstacles in procurement careers • How internal blockers like fear, overthinking and self doubt silently hold you back • How organisational change, restructures and shifting priorities impact your confidence • What to do when tricky stakeholders and people dynamics derail your progress • Why the job market feels tougher and how to adjust your strategy • The importance of talking things through rather than internalising everything • How to separate the problem from the emotion so you can move forward • Practical ways to identify what is really going on and take the first step out of feeling stuck We also discuss the role of coaching in helping you see patterns you cannot always spot yourself, and why having the right people around you, whether coaches, colleagues or personal supporters, makes such a difference when navigating challenging times. Thanks for joining. We are so glad you are here. 👥 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement 📅 New episodes weekly 🎧 Listen on Apple and Spotify 📺 Full episodes available on YouTube: Procurement Pivot...

EP 21: VISION in Procurement: The Future You Shape in Your Career and Your Function

Dec 1, 2025 36 min

Send us Fan Mail What does vision really mean in a procurement career, and why does it matter more today than ever? In this episode, we explore how having a clear, intentional vision can transform not only your personal career trajectory but also the effectiveness and growth of your procurement function. Vision isn’t wishful thinking. It is a strategic anchor that guides your decisions, builds your confidence and shapes how you show up as a professional and a leader. We talk honestly about why vision is often difficult to define, how to create a future you genuinely want (not one you feel you should want), and how mindset, belief and environment play a major role in whether you stay ambitious or shrink your goals in a competitive market. We cover: • Why creating your vision is a process and often the hardest step • How to define a future that energises you, not one shaped by external expectations • The link between mindset, confidence and the belief that your goals are possible • How vision plays out in team leadership, function strategy and 30/60/90 day planning • Why sponsorship, cheerleaders and constructive challengers accelerate your progress • How to communicate, influence and sell your vision internally • Why acting like the future version of yourself helps you close the gap faster • How to break the vision down, stay flexible and build momentum step by step We also share real examples from our coaching work, from individuals at career crossroads to senior leaders building procurement functions, and what helps people stay resilient, adaptable and aligned as they pursue the future they want. Thanks for joining. We’re so glad you’re here. 👥 Hosted by: Donna Bowden | Procurement Career Coach, Narrate Your Career Laura Sellers | Executive and Leadership Coach, Coaching for Procurement 📅 New episodes weekly 🎧 Listen on Apple & Spotify 📺 Full episodes available on YouTube: Procurement Pivots 📌 Follow us on LinkedIn: Procurement Pivots 💬 Got a to...

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EP70: Networking for Introverts: How to Feel More Confident and Less Awkward

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Podcast details

Created by: Donna Bowden & Laura Sellers
Status: Active
Latest episode: Nov 9, 2026
Episodes: 71
Release period: Weekly
Avg. episode length: 31 min
Explicit: No
Language: English

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