Exclusive Video: Jonathan Wharfe, Transport for London

Who are we? Who we need to be?

Jonathan Wharfe, Supply Chain Director of Operations, at Transport for London deep dives into the daily operations and wider strategies of one of the UK’s leading transportation companies. 

Kickstarting his keynote with an introduction to his career in world-class procurement functions, Wharfe has been at the helm of globalising and optimising procurement companies. 

He touches on the exciting opportunities and experiences within procurement, including managing IT infrastructure and working for a global organisation with 70 manufacturing facilities during the pandemic.

The multifaceted role of procurement at Transport for London (TfL)

Diving into the multifaceted role of procurement at Transport for London (TFL), Wharfe discusses the complexities of managing a substantial budget and diverse contracts. 

He discusses the challenge of ensuring the smooth operation of a city's transportation system and the importance of safety, social value, and environmental considerations.

"We have a great opportunity to affect the environment. We have a great opportunity to affect social justice, social inclusion,” he says.

People in procurement 

Wharfe continues his keynote with the introduction of a greater need to focus on people within procurement. He discusses diversity and inclusion and the importance of accommodating individuals with different needs, challenging the audience to consider how much their companies are genuinely investing in people and diversity.

"I think we can be successful. But I think we're missing something. And what I think we're missing is a focus on people,” says Wharfe.

Wharfe concludes his keynote by highlighting the evolving nature of procurement and as such the need for adaptability and different skill sets based on economic conditions.

He recommends that successful collaboration with suppliers depends on focusing efforts on delivering the most value, rather than attempting to collaborate with every supplier.

To watch any of our other speakers from Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE 2023, click here.

Don’t forget to register for our future events at Procurement Supply Chain LIVE and Manufacturing LIVE 2023.

Celebrating exemplary achievements in the fields of procurement and supply chain management, the Supply Chain AWARDS - debuting in 2024 - acknowledges companies, professionals, and projects that demonstrate exceptional performance, innovation, and strategic thinking. Click here, to find out how you can enter.

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For more insights into the world of supply chain read the latest edition of Supply Chain Digital and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn & Twitter. Other magazines that may be of interest: Procurement Magazine, Manufacturing Digital
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