In an acceptance speech that underscored his collaborative spirit, Wilson remarked, “This award is not just for me; it represents the collective efforts of my team at Vodafone and all the mentors I have learned from throughout my career at British Gas, Royal Mail, and Cable & Wireless. It is for those individuals who have shaped my journey in this field.”
A Leader in Sustainable Procurement With over a decade at Vodafone, Wilson has been instrumental in redefining the telecommunications giant's procurement strategy. As CEO of Vodafone Procurement and Group Procurement Director, he oversees a comprehensive supply chain organization responsible for all technology procurement and indirect spending, supporting 26 Vodafone operating companies globally.
Under Wilson’s leadership, Vodafone has enhanced its supplier relationships and streamlined supply chain efficiency, significantly boosting profitability. He has championed sustainable procurement practices, implementing stringent sourcing protocols that align with the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Additionally, Wilson has been a driving force behind the integration of digital technologies into Vodafone’s procurement processes, facilitating innovation and agility in a rapidly evolving market.
Celebrating Excellence in Procurement The Global Procurement & Supply Chain Awards were launched at the Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE London event on September 24, 2024. Glen White, CEO of BizClik, Procurement Magazine, and Supply Chain Digital, expressed enthusiasm for the awards’ potential to highlight the pivotal role of procurement in achieving corporate sustainability goals. “It was an honour to spotlight such a wide range of incredible companies at the inaugural Global Procurement & Supply Chain Awards,” said White. “As organizations face unprecedented challenges in global sourcing, risk management, and technological advancement, celebrating those who have successfully navigated these complexities is crucial. Their successes not only reflect individual achievement but also contribute positively to the sustainability of future supply chains.”
White encouraged greater participation in the upcoming 2025 awards, underscoring the importance of innovation in the field. “We look forward to seeing more companies enter next year. The integration of Generative AI is particularly exciting, and I anticipate significant advancements in this area,” he noted.
Acknowledging Achievement The comprehensive awards program recognises companies, professionals, and projects that have demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and strategic foresight across multiple categories. Importantly, the awards also offer complimentary entry for charities and NGOs, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity and social responsibility within the procurement and supply chain sectors.
“This initiative is not just about competition; it’s about fostering a community that values excellence and sustainability in procurement practices,” Wilson added.
As the procurement landscape continues to evolve, the achievements of leaders like Ninian Wilson set a benchmark for others in the industry. His recognition at the Global Procurement & Supply Chain Awards is a testament to the transformative power of strategic procurement in driving sustainable business practices and enhancing overall supply chain resilience.