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Ever wondered if there's a more direct route into procurement than the typical "falling into it" story most professionals share? In our fascinating conversation with Loren, we uncover the surprising world of dedicated procurement degrees and how academic pathways can provide unique advantages in this ever-evolving profession.

Loren shares her journey from a curious business management student to a fully-qualified procurement professional with not just one, but two procurement degrees. What makes her story particularly compelling is how she earned her MCIPS qualification as part of her university experience - skipping the grueling process of balancing full-time work with professional development that many in our field endure.

The conversation takes unexpected turns as we explore the differences between public and private sector procurement, shattering the myth that public procurement is simply process-driven and uninteresting. Loren's candid assessment of her experiences reveals why she ultimately found her home in the public sector, where no two procurement exercises are ever quite the same.

We dive deep into social value in procurement, with Loren explaining her role as a social value lead and how public sector organizations now mandate at least 10% of scoring be allocated to social value considerations. This growing emphasis demonstrates how modern procurement extends far beyond just "buying things" to creating positive societal impacts.

The discussion also addresses the elephant in the room - artificial intelligence and its potential impact on procurement careers. Loren offers pragmatic insights into how her organization approaches AI in tender responses, balancing innovation with accountability.

Whether you're considering a career in procurement, looking to enhance your qualifications, or simply curious about the profession, this episode offers valuable insights from someone who took the road less traveled. Subscribe now to hear more conversations with procurement professionals who are shaping the future of the industry.

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