TPI Podcast #24
How can procurement leaders balance AI ambition with real-world impact? Salvatore Lombardo explains how to move beyond AI hype.
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 24
STRIKING THE BALANCE BETWEEN AI HESITATION AND HYPE IN PROCUREMENT
How can procurement leaders turn artificial intelligence into measurable business value without falling into hype?
Mike Jansen speaks with Salvatore Lombardo, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Coupa, about orchestrating AI across procurement workflows.
Salvatore explains why value-driven adoption and human judgement are critical for sustainable AI impact.
Key Topics Covered in This Episode
- Avoiding performative AI adoption
- Orchestrating AI across workflows
- Balancing ambition with responsible scaling
GUEST
SALVATORE LOMBARDO
Chief Product and Technology Officer at Coupa. He brings broad experience leading product and technology strategy at scale, with a focus on translating emerging technologies—particularly AI—into practical, value-driven solutions for procurement and finance organisations.
Visit Coupa
HOST
MIKE JANSEN
An Associate Partner at H&Z Management Consulting, Mike works closely with leading organisations to position procurement as a strategic growth lever, with a focus on transformation, digitalisation, and executive alignment.
EPISODE 24
