Introducing a Strategic Procurement Mastermind: Elevating the Industry Beyond the Office Walls

In my corporate role focused on managing co-manufacturers and sourcing strategies, I embarked on an initiative that began as a modest effort but has flourished into a significant part of my professional journey: an internal procurement mastermind. Originally designed to provide a strategic thinking space for buyers and sourcing professionals, this mastermind has evolved into one of the most rewarding projects I’ve had the privilege of creating.

The Real Conversations We Need

This mastermind is not your typical corporate seminar filled with presentations and lectures. Instead, it’s a forum for genuine discussions around pivotal topics such as:

• Transitioning from being perceived as merely “the buyer” to becoming a strategic leader.
• Exercising influence without formal authority, a common predicament in our roles.
• Balancing data-driven insights with intuitive decision-making when they diverge.
• Developing partnerships with suppliers beyond running RFPs and tracking KPIs.
• Crucially, maintaining motivation in the face of potential burnout.

Taking the Next Step: An External Cohort

Now, inspired by the success and impact within our workplace, I’m contemplating the launch of an external, paid cohort. The plan includes small group sessions with 90-minute monthly calls and possibly optional one-on-one coaching. The primary goal is to create a space for procurement professionals eager to break away from repetitive cycles and lead with a progressive mindset.

This isn’t a sales pitch—in fact, I’m still in the early stages of development without a dedicated landing page. However, I’m curious to hear from you:

• Does this concept resonate with you?
• What would you hope to gain from participating?
• Is this a need within the procurement community, or am I primarily addressing my personal challenges?

I’m pursuing feedback and insights to shape this endeavor. If you’re in sourcing or procurement and find any of this relevant, let’s start a conversation. Feel free to comment or reach out directly—there’s plenty of room to refine this vision.

Structuring the Mastermind: A Proven Framework

To provide more context, here’s the framework that has been successful internally, and which I plan to replicate externally. Each session is anchored in practical themes with real-world applicability:

• Strategic Procurement Foundations: Transitioning from tactical necessary actions to a strategic mindset, both personally and organizationally.
• Changing the Narrative: Emphasizing procurement’s value in terms of risk management, innovation, and competitive advantage