Supplier Engagement

The Supplier Essentials Zone will focus on how businesses of all sizes are adapting to the new procurement environment. With the Act creating both challenges and opportunities, this space is dedicated to helping suppliers understand buyer expectations, improve their bids, and position themselves effectively in a more transparent and competitive market.

Hear directly from suppliers who are navigating the transition, as well as procurement experts offering guidance on pre-market engagement, dynamic markets, and what ‘winning’ looks like under the new regime. Whether you’re an SME, social enterprise, or established provider, this zone offers the insight you need to stay competitive – and thrive.

Supplier Engagement Speakers

Supplier Engagement Zone Agenda

Agendas are subject to change

10:55 - 11:20
Using AI to Develop Winning Tenders
Speakers
Jane Lynch

Director - Centre of Public Value Procurement

Cardiff Business School

11:25 - 11:50
Monetising Social Value: Myth, Measure, or Must-Have?
Speakers
Danni Aberg

Head of Social Value

Thrive

Daniel Fujiwara

London School of Economics and ex-Government Economic Service

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Sarah Forster-Smith

Head of Central Government Account Management

Crown Commercial Service

11:55 - 12:20
The Changes to Local Government Frameworks: What Suppliers Need to Know
Speakers
Michael Murray

Commercial Manager

North East Procurement Organisation (NEPO)

12:25 - 12:50
Achieving Social Value Through Social Recruitment
Speakers
Richard Strauss

Development Director

OffPloy

13:25 - 13:50
Creating a Level-Playing Field: How does the Act Supported SME Inclusion?
Speakers
Shirley Cooper OBE

Small Business Crown Representative

Cabinet Office