The CIPS Africa Transform & Thrive 2024 Conference, which includes the Excellence in Procurement and Supply Awards, will offer a not-to-be-missed opportunity for engagement, growth and innovation as industry leaders, decision-makers, and experts gather to discuss and shape the future of procurement and supply on the continent.
The conference, being held at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg on 8 and 9 May 2024, is hosted by the Chartered Institute for Procurement & Supply (CIPS), the world’s largest professional body serving the procurement and supply profession, in partnership with South Africa’s The Mail & Guardian weekly newspaper and website.
The two-day event allows delegates to network with peers and engage with industry pioneers at the forefront of innovation while elevating their expertise through knowledge-sharing discussions.
It will also focus on Africa’s unique procurement challenges, such as infrastructure limitations and geopolitical intricacies, to provide strategies to empower professionals to navigate the procurement landscape effectively.
A host of Southern Africa’s eminent procurement authorities will offer insights on emerging trends and proven strategies to inspire attendees in their professional endeavours.
The speakers include Nolundi Magqaza (Procurement Leader at bpSA); Lenushka Parannath (Head of Procurement at Bidvest International Logistics);Tsholo Tsholofelo(Head of Procurement for Africa, Australia, and the UAE at PUMA Energy);Brian Mthembu(Head of Procurement – Africaat Siemens Energy)and Dikeledi Radebe(Office of the Deputy Commissioner: Taxpayer Engagement & Operations at SARS).
Presentations on hot industry topics will be made, including how procurement can drive businesses forward and the role of mentorship in attracting top talent.
Paul Vos, General Manager of CIPS Southern Africa, says that the theme “Transform and Thrive” is a rallying call for procurement and supply chain professionals across Africa.
“In a landscape marked by constant change, this theme encapsulates the need for adaptive strategies not just to survive but thrive in the face of evolving challenges.”
For example, the importance of ethical sourcing and corporate social responsibility will be discussed at length to showcase how organisations can contribute to positive societal and environmental impact.
No less important is how technological advancements are reshaping the procurement and supply chain landscape. Delegates will explore how transformative technologies like AI, automation and data analytics can revolutionise processes, enhance efficiency and drive business success in an increasingly digital world.
The Excellence in Procurement Awards will be a high point of the conference, as outstanding achievements in procurement and supply chain management will be celebrated.
Vos says these accolades recognise industry leaders and serve as inspirational case studies, demonstrating the positive impact of effective and innovative practices in the region.
CIPS, a driving force for advancing the procurement and supply chain profession in Southern Africa, will also introduce attendees to its impactful initiatives and success stories.
“Our organisation is committed to supporting professionals on their journey to excellence. Looking ahead, we have exciting plans to elevate the standards and impact of our profession in Southern Africa further,” Vos says.
Tickets for the CIPS Africa Transform & Thrive 2024 Conference and Excellence in Procurement and Supply Awards are limited to 250.
Pre-registration is via the CIPS website and closes on 1 May 2024. Once this deadline has passed, only on-site registration will be accepted. Every participant, including invited delegates, is required to register.
The delegate registration fee for CIPS members is R 11 500 for standard registration (until 8 May 2024), and for non-members, it is R 13 800 (until 8 May 2024).
