More laywers to join procurement

With the aim of increasing the size and diversity of the procurement talent pool, The Source’s Managing Consultant, Brendan Turner, has already had success in introducing candidates from a legal background into the procurement field. According to Brendan, candidates from legal backgrounds have already been well received.

“Many of the competencies lawyers must develop such as negotiation, contract drafting and stakeholder relationship management transfer well into a procurement role. Lawyers may also specialise in an industry sector and can bring market intelligence and technical knowledge to a related spend category, “he said.

Augmenting the procurement team with legal talent can help in gaining traction with the in-house legal division. “General Counsel will often brief law firms based on preference or long-standing relationships. Having an ex-lawyer in procurement can help influence the legal team to see the value in implementing a strategic approach to engaging external legal services,” Brendan stated.

Earlier this year Brendan Turner joined the Melbourne office as Managing Consultant. Commencing his executive recruitment career in 2004, Brendan has recruited senior legal, compliance and contract management professionals for premier law firms, corporates and government organisations. Currently completing study to become a registered psychologist, Brendan has expertise in conducting end-to-end executive recruitment assignments and psychological assessments. He is currently developing a unique psychometric tool to assess key procurement competencies.

You can contact Brendan at brendan.turner@thesource.com.au or on (03) 9650 6665.