LIBERTY GLOBAL is a trusted CPE vendor . Martin says the business is constantly challenging Liberty Global to explore new avenues and do things differently .
As a company expanding its fibre networks , the reliability of partners is also crucial . Martin uses fibre manufacturer HFCL as an example and emphasises how critical it is for the procurement partner to have a reliable and robust supply chain to expand the business .
Other partners help Liberty Global improve the margins of sustainability performance , such as Sagemcom . Martin credits the business for its dedication to bringing energy-efficient products into the network from a CPE perspective .
Experience in procurement Martin shows a genuine passion for his profession and is quick to define what he classes as a successful day . It ’ s far more than simply closing a deal or implementing a new strategy .
“ A good day will mean I ’ ve been able to actually inspire people myself ,” says Martin . “ I love mentoring . Leadership is massive in any organisation . I try to surround myself with people that are likeminded . With that human belief , you can come to work and be yourself ; you can have your say in an open environment .”
Over a 30-year career , Martin has seen a great many changes in the art of procurement , but there are underlying skills that are essential for any professional wanting to be successful in the field .
“ Ultimately , procurement is a people business ,” he goes on .
“ Procurement is a people business . So if you like people , then that is the right business to be in ”
MARTIN SIMPER CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER , LIBERTY GLOBAL
“ So if you like people , then that is the right business to be in .”
“ I think if your customer feels that you are listening to them , you ’ re reacting and you ’ re providing them with solutions in a procurement landscape , you ’ ll always do pretty well .”
This prompts Martin to reflect on a chance meeting he had with the Dean of Mathematics who gave him a dim view of his career prospects years earlier .
“ I remember seeing him in our local supermarket about 15 years later ,” he recalls . “ I was in there with my daughter holding my hand as we walked down the aisle . “ I smiled and winked at him and he smiled and nodded , knowing that I ’ d done okay . I ’ d just got to that point where I wanted to get out and work and see what the world was about . I like to think I was brave enough to do something about it and make a decision .”
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