Name: Joe Holland
Position: Category Buyer
How long have you been working at YPO: Just over eight years.
What do you like most about working at YPO?
YPO gives back to the public sector and operates as a not-for-profit organisation, in recent times of austerity YPO has been a real helping hand to customers across the public sector, helping them achieve best value. YPO provides staff excellent opportunities to progress and flexibility to push ourselves, as well as having a nice, friendly atmosphere to work in.
What are your main responsibilities?
I manage several frameworks within the ICT category, such as Technology Hardware and Software, Network Connectivity and Telecommunications and ICT Managed Service. Managing these frameworks means that my main responsibilities are to review supplier performance through quarterly meetings, market research, marketing the frameworks and ensuring they remain fit for purpose.
Other responsibilities also include customer support, by providing advice on using the frameworks and which procurement route will be beneficial to them whilst also providing up-to-date market insight to aid their procurement journey. Other duties include providing support to the wider ICT team and planning for future frameworks, to ensure that we have relevant frameworks that support customers and their ICT procurement needs.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
The most challenging part is to keep up with the high pace of innovation and change within the industry. The biggest challenge facing the ICT team now are issues throughout the supply chain, which is why it is important that I have regular contact with suppliers to get the latest information.
Describe your role in three words: Challenging, fun, exciting.
How did you get involved in procurement?
I started my career at YPO as an apprentice working within the educational product section of the business and quickly learned all about procurement from my time as an apprentice. From that, I was able to progress within YPO, specifically in the energy team and now in the next chapter as a category buyer within ICT.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I am a season ticket holder at Leeds United, who will win the Premier League in the next year or two! Before the world of COVID, I liked to go on city breaks across Europe to experience different cultures and try new food!
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