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
How much procurement does a business actually need?
In this episode of Demystifying Procurement, we’re joined by Ana Maria Velica and Vlad Gredinaru from Green Apples to explore the idea of Minimum Viable Procurement. We talk procurement maturity, especially in SMEs: where to start, what foundations really matter, how to build trust and demonstrate value, and why “world-class procurement” shouldn’t always be the goal.
From governance, spend visibility and contract management to technology and AI, we discuss how to build procurement that is fit for the business — without unnecessary complexity.
27 Aug 2026
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
26 Apr 2026
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
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.
26 Aug 2025
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!
4 Aug 2025
Episode #8 - Preparation - Step 1 of Strategic Sourcing
In this Episode #8 we dive into the details of Preparation Step during strategic sourcing process.
How crucial that is, and what’s most important not to miss.
Tune in for insights
5 Nov 2024
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
25 Jun 2024
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
26 Apr 2024
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
19 Dec 2023
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
12 Nov 2023
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
9 Oct 2023
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.
24 May 2022
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
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