Edinburgh-headquartered consultancy Optima Partners doubling staff after seven-figure BGF boost – The Scotsman

One of our friends recently made a hilarious comparison between a blind consultant hunting and going to a restaurant and asking the chef to whip up a dish without telling them what you want. It might turn out delicious, but it's not exactly what you had in mind. The same goes for consulting. An RFP is crafted to spare you the misery of embarking on a pointless crusade.

In this episode of "Smart Consulting Sourcing", we delve into the necessity of Request for Proposals (RFPs) for consulting services. Our host, Helene, answers the question, "Do I always need an RFP?" The short answer is yes, and for a good reason. RFPs serve as the blueprint for collaborations with external consultants, allowing you to organize fair competition in bidding processes and to manage change more effectively over time.

A well-crafted RFP will also help you identify the right consulting firm needed for the job, assess timeline feasibility, and budget constraints. Even with a selected consultant, advantages still apply!

#smartconsultingsourcing #rfp #requestforproposal #consulting #businessdevelopment #marketresearchreport
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com
For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

118 10

The digitalization of procurement has undeniably revolutionized the way businesses operate, offering a vast array of opportunities to optimize and streamline procurement processes.
Embracing this digital transformation has become essential for organizations of all sizes in order to stay competitive and relevant in today's rapidly evolving marketplace.

To better understand this rapidly growing trend, catch our experts Helene Laffitte, Laurent Thomas, Tomas Wiemer, James Meads, and Boris Foiselle, in a very intriguing and interesting webinar session.

Some of the essential points covered in the webinar include the following:
✅ What is digitalization of procurement all about?
✅ What are the benefits of digitalization of procurement?
✅ What are the pitfalls and challenges?
✅ What do you really need to think about?
✅ What does it means for consulting?
✅ How will the digital procurement ecosystem look like in the future?

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
04:44 – Uncovering the truth behind the trend: What exactly is digital procurement?
12:18 – What is the technology landscape for digital procurement?
23:40 – What are the key challenges and pre-requisites for implementation?
36:38 – What answers can specialized solutions bring to their clients?
53:33 – How about consulting?
56:44 – Q&A
----------------

👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe To Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth


OUR VIDEOS - PLAYLIST
👉 Webinars: https://bit.ly/3AUvnTA
👉 Knowing the Consulting Industry: https://bit.ly/3sh7Rwn
👉 Buying Consulting: https://bit.ly/3LaFQPQ
👉 Managing the Consulting Category: https://bit.ly/3La0JKE

If you are a professional in consulting and are looking to level up and learn more about the industry, visit the Consulting Quest website at: https://consultingquest.com

For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at: https://consultingquest.wiki

For regular weekly videos about the consulting business, subscribe to our channel at: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth

------------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consultingquest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

You can also subscribe to our podcast channel for weekly podcasts on everything related to consulting at: https://podcast.smartconsultingsourcing.com/

Stay tuned for our next video!

#DigitalizationOfProcurement #DigitalProcurement #Procurement #ConsultingIndustry #SmartConsultingSourcing

104 0

Never underestimate the power of a well-crafted RFP for consulting simply because a foolproof RFP could be your ticket to success for any consulting project. If you're looking to bring in external expertise to help your organization tackle a new project or problem, taking the time to craft a comprehensive RFP can make all the difference.

Creating a clear and comprehensive RFP may be a daunting task, but it always pays off in spades by attracting the right consultants, clarifying your needs, and ultimately optimizing ROI from your consulting spend.

In this episode of our new podcast series, "How to buy consulting services like a pro," your favorite host Helene walks you through the benefits of writing an RFP for consulting, shares tips for crafting an effective one, and provides examples of successful RFPs. This guide will give you the tools you need to make the most of your consulting projects. So, get ready, grab a pen and paper, and tune in.

#consulting #RFP #podcast #smartconsultingsourcing
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com
For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

49 2

Hey there, amazing women in procurement! We gotta ask - when was the last time you flexed your negotiation muscles for yourself? We know you're a deal-making powerhouse when it comes to your organization, but what about negotiating for your own career growth, project visibility, or stakeholder engagement? It's not always easy, and most of us struggle with it. But fear not, because Alejandra Garcia has some great tips on this very topic in her interview with Helene.

If you're a younger woman looking to climb that corporate ladder, Alejandra has three key recommendations for you: don't be afraid to negotiate, get comfy with conflict management, and learn to navigate those pesky office politics. Trust us, these skills are essential for your career growth and avoiding them could be a major setback.

So, how about joining Helene and Alejandra for a deep conversation and some serious inspiration and knowledge? It's gonna be a blast, we promise. And speaking of inspiration, as we put together our Women's Day special interview series, we couldn't help but feel more and more empowered with each episode. That's why we're continuing to celebrate amazing achievers like Alejandra and sharing their journeys with others. Let's do this!

#womensupportingwomeninbusiness
#InclusiveNetworking
#PromoteWomenOwnedBusinesses
#ProcurementEmpowerment
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

63 1

Have you ever wondered what exactly consultants bring to the table and how they can help your business achieve more success? If so, then this podcast is for you!

In the end, consulting is all about creating value. But measuring the value created from consulting is like trying to examine the worth of a good joke. Is it the number of laughs it generates, the amount of money it makes, or the satisfaction it brings to the audience?

It's hard to say, but you know it when you see it. And with the right consultant, you'll know it when you see the value they create for your business.

In this second episode of the series "How to buy consulting services like a pro," Helene delves deeper into the topic of what consultants bring to the table. From technical expertise to insights into organizational culture and politics, consultants can provide valuable data, benchmarks, methodologies, tools, and processes.

#consulting #procurement #business #podcast #smartconsultingsourcing
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com
For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

150 5

Get ready to celebrate International Women's Day 2023 with our fantastic interview series, "Alpha Females in Procurement - the Lone Road to Leadership." We've been lucky enough to chat with three phenomenal women so far: Susan Spence, Vera Rozanova, and Donna Donato. And let me tell you, their stories are truly inspiring!

Our host Helene Laffitte has been doing an incredible job guiding the conversations with thoughtful and witty questions.

But wait, there's more! Today's episode has a little twist. Our amazing CEO at CQ and a consulting sourcing expert, Helene Laffitte, is taking the reins today and becoming the storyteller herself! This episode is sure to be an eye-opener, shedding light on the challenges women face in male-dominated fields. And for all you young professionals out there, get ready to take some notes and find inspiration on how to pave your own road to success.

And don't worry, gentlemen, you're more than welcome to tune in too! Not only will you gain valuable insight into the experiences of these impressive women, but you'll also learn how to become a better ally and advocate for gender equality in the workplace. So join us on this journey and let's celebrate the achievements of women in procurement together!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your headphones and get ready for a powerful and engaging narrative that will leave you feeling empowered and motivated!

#womensupportingwomeninbusiness
#internationalwomensday
#PromoteWomenOwnedBusinesses
#ProcurementEmpowerment
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

148 3

The world of procurement and supply chain management is changing rapidly. The past three years have shown us just how vital it is to have a solid supply chain strategy, no matter your industry. It's like building a castle - you want to make sure your foundation is strong enough to withstand any attack that comes your way.

At the same time, building a sustainable supply chain is essential for our future because it ensures the responsible use of resources, reduces waste and pollution, and helps mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.

Additionally, a sustainable supply chain can lead to greater resilience and long-term profitability for businesses while also meeting the growing demand from consumers for more environmentally and socially responsible products and services.

Of course, building a sustainable supply chain is easier said than done. Rome wasn’t built in one day. And that's precisely what this PGC podcast episode is all about! This episode features Kartik Iyer, a supply chain expert who shares his insights and experience on how to build a resilient supply chain.

We explore why sustainability is critical and how to define it. We examine vital elements companies must implement to achieve a sustainable supply chain. And we tackle the tricky question of pursuing suppliers in countries like India to participate in sustainability.

Do you often get those nagging pangs that, as procurement and supply chain leaders, you have a crucial role in the global sustainability effort? Then, please take a deep breath and tune in to our podcast for invaluable insights.
#PGC #ProcurementGameChangers #supplychain #procurement #sustainability #podcast
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe To Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com
For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consultingquest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

151 0

As we celebrate Women's Day this year, we're proud to feature a group of influential women in procurement. And today, we're thrilled to have Donna Donato join us for our third episode of the "Alpha Females in Procurement: The Lone Road to Leadership" podcast series.

A seasoned leader in the procurement world, Donna has over 25 years of global experience under her belt. She's currently rocking the role of CEO for Chain IQ Americas, a leading independent procurement services company.

Your favorite host, Helene, guides the conversation, delving into Donna's fascinating journey with thoughtful and witty questions. You won't want to miss it! Tune in to hear Helene and Donna's captivating discussion on leadership, collaboration, and networking among women in procurement.

#womensupportingwomeninbusiness
#InclusiveNetworking
#PromoteWomenOwnedBusinesses
#ProcurementEmpowerment
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

143 4

Join us to Celebrate International Women's Day with our latest episode featuring a remarkable guest, Vera Rozanova – the Global Director at Open Forum Enterprise Ltd, an expert in procurement and supply chain management, a beloved coach and mentor, and a champion of climate change! Did we mention she is also an MCIPS?
In this episode, we dive into the world of procurement with Vera and explore how women can thrive in this fast-paced and exciting industry. She shares her insights on how collaboration and relationship building are the keys to success in procurement and how women's unique qualities such as emotional intelligence and communication skills are a great fit for this field.
Tune in and learn from her expertise. You'll get to hear about her journey and how she's making a difference in the industry.

#WomenSupportingWomen
#InclusiveNetworking
#PromoteWomenOwnedBusinesses
#ProcurementEmpowerment
----------------
👉 See All Our Videos: https://bit.ly/3AWAV03
👉 Subscribe to Our Channel: https://bit.ly/3sdUlth
----------------
Visit the Consulting Quest website: https://consultingquest.com
For weekly articles and updates on the consulting industry, subscribe to our newsletter at https://consulting.wiki
----------------
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsultingQuest
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ConsQuest
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consulting-quest/mycompany/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/consulting.quest/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Consultingquest/

150 2