TPI Podcast #18
What does it really take to lead procurement through sustained volatility? Gaël De Martelaere shares how leaders navigate uncertainty, margin pressure, and constant change.
The Procurement Initiative Leaders Podcast
The Procurement Initiative Leaders Podcast, produced in collaboration with our friends at The Procurement Initiative and the University of St. Gallen.
Join Richard, Martina, and Mike as they sit down with industry leaders and experts to uncover the latest trends and insights in procurement, from exploring the transformative power of technology, data, digitisation, and AI, to unravelling the complexities of leadership, competencies, and talent management. Discover strategies for cost reduction and value creation, gain a deeper understanding of the impact of inflation, the economy, and geopolitics, and learn how to build resilient supply chains while effectively managing risks. We also delve into the crucial topics of ESG and the circular economy, exploring their implications for procurement leaders.
Tune in to the Procurement Initiative Leaders Podcast to unlock the knowledge and expertise you need to stay at the cutting edge of the industry and drive meaningful change within your organisation.
This podcast is available on Apple Podcast and Spotify.
EPISODE 18
CONTINUOUS REINVENTION: NAVIGATING VOLATILITY IN PROCUREMENT LEADERSHIP
What does it really take to lead procurement through sustained volatility while staying true to long-term ambition?
In this episode of the Procurement Initiative Leaders Podcast, Richard McIntosh speaks with Gaël De Martelaere, Head of Direct Procurement at Dow, about how procurement leaders can thrive amid disruption, margin pressure, and ongoing uncertainty.
Gaël reflects on navigating pandemic-era volatility, shifting from relentless cost reduction towards more collaborative and digitally enabled procurement models, and building a culture that can withstand constant change.
The conversation explores the leadership mindset required to guide teams through uncertainty, emphasising transparency, calm decision-making, and strong supplier collaboration.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode
- How agile, digital procurement adapts to margin pressure and volatility
- Building resilient cultures while balancing long-term ambition
- Why calm and transparent leadership matters during disruption
- Moving beyond cost reduction towards collaboration and innovation
- How supplier partnerships support long-term value creation
GUEST
GAËL DE MARTELAERE
Head of Direct Procurement at Dow. He brings extensive experience leading global procurement and supply chain operations in complex industrial environments, with a focus on resilience, digital collaboration, and supplier partnership.
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HOST
RICHARD MCINTOSH
A Partner at H&Z Management Consulting, Richard brings over twenty-three years of experience supporting procurement leaders to deliver impact. Outside of work, Richard is an avid rugby fan and youth rugby coach, committed to inspiring the next generation through sport.
EPISODE 18
