Live Debate Arena

Step into the heart of the conversation in the Live Debate Arena—a dynamic, interactive space where key voices from across the public procurement landscape will come together to explore the most pressing questions facing the sector. Through moderated debates and live audience Q&A’s, this zone will tackle the big themes emerging since the Procurement Act came into force.

From centralisation and transparency to innovation and risk, expect lively exchanges, multiple perspectives, and plenty of food for thought. Whether you’re looking to challenge assumptions or validate your thinking, the Arena invites you to engage directly with decision-makers, disruptors, and policy experts shaping the future of public procurement.

Live Debate Arena Speakers

Live Debate Arena Agenda

Agendas are subject to change

10:00 - 10:15
Opening Address
10:15 - 10:40
Cabinet Office Address - Procurement Act Update - 8 Months on
Speakers
Lindsay Maguire

Deputy Director for Procurement Reform

Cabinet Office

10:45 - 11:25
Panel Session - Navigating the New Procurement Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities
Speakers
Emma Briggs

Director of Procurement & Sustainability

Metropolitan Thames Valley Housing (MTVH)

Esther Beaumont

Head of Category Management

7 Forces Collaboration

11:30 - 12:10
Panel Session - Social Value and Supplier Diversity: Are We Making Progress?
Speakers
Dan Ebanks

Co-Founder & CEO

Social Value Exchange

Tiia Sammallahti

CEO & Founder

whatimpact

Joanna Dahlgren

Head of Social Value & SROI

London Borough of Waltham Forest

12:15 - 12:55
Panel Session - From Compliance to Strategy: The Evolving Role of Procurement Professionals
Speakers
Zuzanna Briant

Director & Practice Lead - Contract & Commercial Management

World Commerce & Contracting

Bahar Shahin

Director of Procurement

Queen Mary University of London

Emilia Hogarth

Head of Communities - Transforming Public Procurement

Cabinet Office

13:00 - 13:40
Panel Session - Transparency and Accountability: Has the Act Delivered?