In this fast-paced and practical episode, host Hannah Quinn-Hill explores one of the most pressing challenges in public sector procurement today: the widening skills gap. Despite more than half of employed adults in England and Wales holding qualifications that align with their roles, a staggering 79% of organizations are still facing procurement skill shortages.

Hannah examines why this gap exists—especially within the public sector—and what it means for the future of procurement governance and capability. From strategic thinking and negotiation to analytics and relationship management, the demand for well-rounded commercial skills has never been greater.

With insights from recent research, including findings from the Innovation Procurement Empowerment Centre (IPEC) showing that nearly 1 in 5 public sector professionals are unfamiliar with innovation in procurement, this episode calls for urgent action in building teams that can thrive in the face of change.

Tune in for a sharp and insightful discussion on how to close the gap—and why doing so is critical to unlocking true public value.

In this episode of The Truth About Public Sector, host Hannah Quinn-Hill pulls back the curtain on one of the most misunderstood corners of government: procurement.

Joining us is Mark Pearson, Learning and Development Lead at the Crescent Purchasing Consortium, a Chartered procurement pro who's on a mission to help public institutions buy smarter and lead better.

We explore the skills crisis in procurement, the power of digital transformation, and why ethical, sustainable procurement isn’t just a buzzword — it’s changing lives.

Mark shares surprising truths, busts persistent myths, and offers a compelling vision for the future of public sector buying. Whether you’re a procurement insider or just procurement-curious, this is one you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Hannah Quinn-Hill is joined by Marco Salzedo, Director of Commercial and Contract Management Capability at the Cabinet Office. Marco brings a wealth of experience in driving commercial excellence across government. Together, they delve into the evolution of public sector procurement, the challenges of enhancing commercial capability, and the transformative impact of the Procurement Act 2023.

They explore how these changes aim to simplify procurement processes, increase transparency, and deliver greater value for public services. Whether you're a seasoned procurement professional or new to the field, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of public sector procurement.