Skip to content
Artwork for Demystifying Procurement

Demystifying Procurement

Guilherme and Daria

A group of Procurement professionals getting together and telling stories about life in Procurement. Some fun stories and some serious stuff as well.
Main components:
Daria Khitsenko - A Russian passionate about how Procurement can connect things and people.
Selin Apikyan - A Greek-Turkish who has a passion for people and for the change that Procurement people can drive hand in hand with the business
Martin John - A British who favours pragmatism, common sense and getting things done
Guilherme Loponte - A Brazilian who is passionate about Procurement transformational power in the organizations

Play
  • 12 episodes
  • Avg 38 min
  • English
  • S1 · E12
    Thursday · 52 min

    Episode # 12 - Sourcing Strategy

    This is 4th episode of Strategic Sourcing series focusing on step 3: Sourcing Strategy. Procurement leaders Damaris Kabura and Ronel Chetty join Daria and Guilherme to break down the difference between tactical buying and true business impact. They unpack the procurement chessboard, explain why one-size-fits-all sourcing does not work, and show how to align category strategy with business goals before an RFQ or RFP ever goes out. Enjoy! And send us messages to demystifying.procurement@gmail.com. Daria & Guilherme

  • S1 · E11
    April 26 · 52 min

    Episode #11 - Demystifying AI in Procurement

    AI is reshaping procurement — but what does that really mean beyond the hype? In this episode, Daria and Guilherme speak with Alexey Gorchakov about how AI can improve procurement efficiency, decision-making, stakeholder experience, and tail spend management. We discuss real use cases, risks like data exposure and hallucinations, and why procurement teams need to start experimenting now to avoid being left behind. Join us! And ask questions on demystifying.procurement@gmail.com

  • S1 · E10
    Oct 18, 2025 · 35 min

    Episode #10 - Analysis Stage - Step 2 of Strategy Sourcing

    In Episode 10 of Demystifying Procurement, we dive into the Analysis stage of Strategic Sourcing — where insights and opportunities begin to take shape. Join us as we break down Internal Analysis, Stakeholder Requirements, and Market Analysis, with real-world stories that show how data and dialogue can uncover savings, mitigate risk, and shape better sourcing strategies. 🎙️ Hosts: Guilherme & Daria 💬 Guest: Sarah Robbins 🔍 Topic: Strategic Sourcing – Step 2: Analyzing Spend Find us on Linked In (Demystifying Procurement) or at demystifying.procurement@gmail.com.

  • S1 · E9
    Aug 26, 2025 · 45 min

    Episode #9 - Procuring AI

    This episode is all about procurement of AI—but in fact, it’s not just for procurement teams. We unpack what it really takes to bring AI into an organization, why it’s different from buying other tech, and the key things everyone should know to make smarter choices. Whether you work in procurement, any other function in the business, or just want to understand how AI actually gets put to use, this one’s for you. Got questions or ideas? Reach out on LinkedIn or email us at Demystifying.Procurement@gmail.com—we’d love to hear from you!

  • S1 · E8
    Aug 4, 2025 · 27 min

    Episode #8 - Preparation - Step 1 of Strategic Sourcing

    Before you negotiate, compare bids, or sign contracts, there’s one step that sets the stage for everything: Preparation. In this episode, we break down exactly what to do—and what to avoid—so your strategic sourcing process starts on the strongest possible footing. From defining needs to aligning stakeholders, we discuss how to build a plan that wins before the first RFP even goes out. Tune in for insights! And more importantly, reach out with comments, questions or ideas for new episodes at Demystifying.Procurement@gmail.com

  • Nov 5, 2024 · 46 min

    Episode #7 - Strategic Sourcing Intro

    This is the first of series on Strategic Sourcing. We start with introduction of the process and high level overview of all the steps. Of course, with stories and references to our own experience. Follow next episodes for a deep dive into every stage of the strategic sourcong process. And share your thoughts and questions on demystifying.procurement@gmail.com

  • S1 · E6
    Jun 25, 2024 · 47 min

    Episode #6 - Procurement Ethics

    Ethics in Procurement. Why is it important? Is it okay to hire a consultancy firm from your home town? Or go to meals with suppliers during tender? How ethics problem has been evolving for Procurement? Looking for answers with Karen Daniels, Procurement professional and a specialist in Ethics & ESG. We look forward to your feedback, comments and questions at demystifying.procurement@gmail.com Daria, Selin, Guilherme and Neil

  • Apr 26, 2024 · 31 min

    Episode # 5 - Procurement Scope

    In this episode we discussed Procurement Scope. What is traditional and basic, what is new and evolving. Tune in and let us know what you think. We look forward to your feedback, comments and questions at demystifying.procurement@gmail.com Daria, Selin, Guilherme and Neil

  • Dec 19, 2023 · 42 min

    Episode #4 - How to Make a Difference in Procurement

    Explore the transformative world of procurement in this episode as we discuss strategies for connecting with business, understanding market dynamics, and the importance of passion and resilience. Our conversation provides valuable insights for both new and seasoned professionals, emphasizing that anyone can make a significant impact in procurement. #GoingBeyond #AnyoneCanDoIt Connect to us at demystifying.procurement@gmail.com

  • S1 · E3
    Nov 12, 2023 · 34 min

    Episode #3 - Strategic & Tactical Sourcing

    This time we've been talking about strategic & tactical sourcing: the aim, the difference and when is best to use which approach. And again, how to bring the most value. Enjoy and send us an email with your comments and questions at demystifying.procurement@gmail.com

  • S1 · E2
    Oct 9, 2023 · 30 min

    Episode #2 - Is Procurement Sexy?

    It turned out to be a nice chat about the goods and bad of procurement: how it's exciting to work there, and how at times the transactions and specific lingo can kill the joy. And of course, we discover if it's an attractive place for a new talent together with our young guest at start at his career. Tune in! And email us at demystifying.procurement@gmail.com with any thoughts or questions.

  • S1 · E1
    May 24, 2022 · 17 min

    Episode #1 - Our mission!

    On this episode, we introduce ourselves and talk about why we understand we should be creating this content Participants: Martin John, Daria Khitsenko, Selin Apikyan and Guilherme Loponte

Showing 1–12 of 12 episodes