A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown
With 40 years combined public sector procurement experience, Chris and Fleur discuss the key features that will impact this sector as we edge closer to the launch of the Procurement Act 2023 which will be one of the largest changes that has been seen in this area for a number of years. Each episode as part of this podcast series will cover a bite-sized topic that we think you will be interested to know more about. If there are any areas that you would like us to discuss as part of future episodes or be a guest, please contact us at podcast@thereformfundown.co.uk.
Episodes
Episode 61 - Voices of Career Reality - How to prove you can do the job before you get hired
"Voices of Career Reality - How to prove you can do the job before you get hired"For the first of two special recordings, Chris and Fleur swapped roles and became the interviewees as we joined the brilliant Annalisha Noel from AchieverOS and her Voices of Career Reality series. In this episode, it's Chris's turn to be the interviewee, as he joins Annalisha to discuss:- What good
Episode 60 - Voices of Career Reality - The Unspoken Trap of Senior Career Transitions
"Voices of Career Reality - The Unspoken Trap of Senior Career Transition"For the first of two special recordings, Chris and Fleur swapped roles and became the interviewees as we joined the brilliant Annalisha Noel from AchieverOS and her Voices of Career Reality series. Fleur was first up to join Annalisha, where she discussed:- Career progression and leadership- Making your impact visi
Episode 59 - Teaching Procurement Forward - Learning, Leadership and Developing the Next Generation
"Teaching Procurement Forward - Learning, Leadership and Developing the Next Generation"In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Jonathan Jones FCIPS. With extensive experience across practical procurement, teaching and professional development, Jonathan brings a genuine passion for helping current and future procurement professionals build their confidence, knowledge and capabilit
Episode 58 - From Procurement Function to Strategic Capability
"From Procurement Function to Strategic Capability"In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Rizwan Khalid BEng, MBA, Chartered FCIPS. Rizwan has over 20 years of experience across public, private and international environments, including the UK and across the world. Rizwan has worked across major organisations and regulated portfolios where procurement has had to deliver real organ
Episode 57 - From Firefighting to Flow: Building Smarter Supply Chains Through Process, People & Performance
"From Firefighting to Flow: Building Smarter Supply Chains Through Process, People & Performance"In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Casey (CJ) Jenkins, owner & CEO of Eight Twenty-Eight Consulting, a supply chain professional, educator, lean Six Sigma Black Belt and industry thought leader. CJ's experience covers logistics, procurement, manufacturing, retail and o
Episode 56 (Part 2) - Earn Your Seat: Procurement, Contract Management & Ecosystems
"Part 2 - Earn Your Seat: Procurement, Contract Management & Ecosystems"In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Arjen Van Berkum, Contract Management Evangelist, Ecosystem Thinker and Procurement Challenger. In Part 2 of this episode, we explore the academia side of procurement and the latest generation entering the profession alongside topics such as AI and Ecosystems. Make s
Episode 56 (Part 1) - Earn Your Seat: Procurement, Contract Management & Ecosystems
"Part 1 - Earn Your Seat: Procurement, Contract Management & Ecosystems"In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Arjen Van Berkum, Contract Management Evangelist, Ecosystem Thinker and Procurement Challenger. In Part 1 of this episode, we explore the early years of Arjen's career as well as the importance of contract management within procurement. Alongside this, they also
Episode 55 - The Future of Procurement - Profession, Platform or Powerhouse? (CIPS UK & Europe Volunteer Conference & Awards 2026)
"The Future of Procurement - Professional, Platform or Powerhouse? CIPS UK & Europe Volunteer Conference & Awards 2026, The Great Conversation"Join Chris and Fleur as they take part in the CIPS UK & Europe Volunteer Conference & Awards 2026 as part of the Great Conversation with a live podcast episode. We are joined by 4 amazing guests where we discuss the future of the p
Episode 54 - Flow over footprint: Procurement, logistics & building resilient systems in a volatile world
"Flow over footprint: Procurement, logistics & building resilient systems in a volatile world with Gbenga Ojo"Join Chris and Fleur in this episode where they are joined by a procurement leader who is working across supply chains, logistics and procurement in some of the most demanding operating environments. They are joined by Gbenga Ojo, Executive Director at Flux Logistics and Foun
Episode 53 - Procurex 2026 LIVE edition
"Procurex 2026 LIVE edition"Welcome to this very special LIVE edition of the podcast where Chris and Fleur take 'A Procurement Podcast' to the stage as part of Procurement England 2026 and the People, Purpose & Planet Zone. They are joined by three amazing guests, who are all well known to the podcast, to discuss important topics such as how we can engage the younger generati
Episode 52 - Gen Z Decoded: Careers, Influence & What Procurement Needs to Learn
"Gen Z Decoded: Careers, Influence & What Procurement Needs to Learn with Barbara Matijevic"Join Chris and Fleur in this episode where they tear up the script as the conversation doesn't just talk about procurement but also how the next generation sees work, careers and where our profession fits - or doesn't with our guest Barabara Matijevic. Barbara has built a growing prese
Episode 51 - CIPS Essex Branch Event - Contract Management & Contract Leverage
"Podcast Live on Tour - CIPS Essex Branch Event - Contract Management & Contract Leverage"Join Chris and Fleur in this special live podcast episode in conjunction with the CIPS Essex Branch. In this live recording which focuses on the event topic of Contract Management & Contract Management, Chris and Fleur are joined by the CIPS Essex Branch Chair (Tony Morris), Nick Smith (Head
Episode 50 - 50 Not Out: Procurement, Podcasts, and the Idiot's Guide to Surviving the Procurement Galaxy
"50 Not Out: Procurement, Podcasts, and the Idiot's Guide to Surviving the Procurement Galaxy"Join Chris and Fleur in this special celebratory podcast episode to mark the incredible milestone of 50 published episodes!In this episode, Chris and Fleur take a look back at their podcast journey since the very first episode and discuss some of their highlights and key takeaways. In additi
Episode 49 - From Policy to Practice: Procurement Reform, Public Value and Leading Change in Local Government
"From Policy to Practice: Procurement Reform, Public Value and Leading Change in Local Government"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Lewis Sinkala, Head of Procurement at Leeds City Council. This episode takes us back to our podcast roots as it focuses on public sector procurement, reform and how policy change actually translates into real-world outcomes. Lewis is a se
Episode 48 - Purpose, People and Performance - A Global Perspective on Modern Procurement Leadership
"Purpose, People and Performance - A Global Perspective on Modern Procurement Leadership"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Suresh Keshaven FCIPS Chartered to the podcast to talk all about modern procurement leadership. Suresh has shaped, elevated, and energised the procurement profession across India and the wider region. He is known for his passion, generosity, and r
Episode 47 - Cutting through the noise: Circular economy, climate action and making sustainability actually happen
"Cutting through the noise: Circular economy, climate action and making sustainability actually happen"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome James George, Chief Sustainability Strategist from The Vyne Group to the podcast where they dive straight into the epicentre of sustainability, systems change, and what it really takes to move from climate ambition to climate action.
Episode 46 - United in our Procurement Principles
"United in our Procurement Principles"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Harold Nwariaku FCIPS to the podcast. Harold is the County Head (USA) for CIPS; Managing Partner, PSCC LLC; and Author & Speaker, and assessor who has helped organisations benchmark capability and delivery measurable procurement improvements. Check out Harold's LinkedIn page here - https:/
Episode 45 - From RFI to Contract Closeout - Procurement Excellence in Poland's Renewable Boom
"From RFI to Contract Closeour - Procurement Excellence in Poland's Renewable BoomJoin us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Ula Woronowicz, a Procurement leader with over 20 years' experience, over 15 years in energy, and someone who now plays a pivotal role in renewables and large-scale CAPEX projects. The conversation as part of this episode takes us over to Poland where
Episode 44 - Procurement in Defence: Where Innovation Meets Security
"Procurement in Defence: Where innovation Meets Security"Join us in this episode where Chris and Fleur welcome Saema Jaffer from the UK Ministry of Defence to the podcast for a conversation packed with insight, honesty, and some seriously thought‑provoking perspectives on the procurement profession. From Parliament to the Cabinet Office to HS2, Saema has seen (and shaped) procurement at
Episode 43 - Stephen Seki is back and the tables have turned
"Stephen Seki is back and the tables have turned"Following the success of Episode 37 where we were joined by Stephen Seki (CEO of SekiSpeaks Ltd), the tables have turned in this episode and Stephen becomes the host of the podcast! Find out from Chris and Fleur all about their career backgrounds and how they got into Procurement as well as the opportunities that the profession enables! Th
Episode 42 - Women Empowering Defence - Inclusion, Leadership & the Future of Procurement
"Women Empowering Defence - Inclusion, Leadership & the Future of Procurement"In this episode of the podcast, we are celebrating leadership, diversity, and empowerment in the run up to International Women's Day on 8th March 2026, taking a moment to recognise the exceptional woment transforming defence and security. Chris and Fleur are joined by two remarkable leaders, Natalie Mad
Episode 41 - Procurement Excellence, Digital Transformation & The Power Of Purpose
"Procurement Excellence, Digital Transformation & The Power Of Purpose"In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur are joined by Jose Bustillo, Vice President, Delivery & Procurement Excellence at Spend HQ. Check out Jose Butillo's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bustillojose/Check out Spend HQ's Linkedin page - https://www.linkedin.com/company/spendhq/Don
Episode 40 - "The Branch Brief: CIPS Malawi Conversations"
"The Branch Brief: CIPS Malawi Conversations"In this episode of the podcast Chris and Fleur are joined by Alex Chambukira FCIPS, chairperson of the CIPS Malawi Branch. For Episode 40 Chris and Fleur are thrilled to bring some CIPS Southern Africa energy to the podcast as we sit down with Alex Chambukira FCIPS a true champion of the procurement profession across Malawi and the wider Sou
Episode 39 - Why Error Reduction Matters with Cliff Smith from the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI)
"Why Error Reduction Matters with Cliff Smith from the Get It Right Initiative (GIRI)"In this episode of the podcast Chris and Fleur are joined by Cliff Smith, Executive Director at GIRI (Get It Right Initiative) where they look to discuss the reasons behind why GIRI was created and how they can support in reducing errors mainly within the Construction industry. Further details about GIR
Episode 38 - From Reform to Reality: Legal Insights on the Procurement Act
"From Reform to Reality: Legal Insights on the Procurement Act with Jade Divers from Trowers & Hamlins"In this episode of the podcast Chris and Fleur are joined by Jade Divers, Associate from Trowers & Hamlins. Jade is a leading expert in public procurement law who brings a rare blend of central government in-house experience and front-line advisory insight, making this a standou
Episode 37 - The Human Side of Procurement: A Conversation with Stephen Seki
"The Human Side of Procurement: A Conversation with Stephen Seki"In this episode of the podcast which kicks off Season 3, Chris and Fleur are joined by the absolute powerhouse and motivational speaker, Stephen Seki - CEO of SekiSpeaks Ltd.This episode takes a slightly different approach from our usual format, but Stephen's insights on positive mindset, resilience and personal growth
Episode 36 - Beyond the Contract: Vendor Management Meets Strategic Procurement
"Beyond the Contract: Vendor Management Meets Strategic Procurement"In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur are joined by Celia SGAR who is the co-founder of Vendor Score IT and creator of Supply Management Framework SGAR. They discuss about the benefits that a structured approach to SRM can bring to an organisation as well as tools and methodologies that can support implementati
Episode 35 - The Transatlantic Tender: UK & Canada in Conversation
"The Transatlantic Tender: UK & Canada in Conversation"In this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur are joined by Richa Singh, podcast host of Procurement Horizons and our first non-UK based guest, where they talk all about the differences in procurement between the UK & Canada. Make sure to listen as Chris and Fleur are also put under the spotlight with some insightful questi
Episode 34 - Benefiting from Preliminary Market Engagement
Engage to Win, Procurement’s First Move - Benefiting from Preliminary Market EngagementIn this episode of the podcast, Chris and Fleur talk all about Preliminary Market Engagement under the Procurement Act 2023. They explore the importance of market engagement, the new notice that has been introduced as well as looking at how to unlock the potential that can be seen from carrying out this activity
Episode 33 - SEC 2025 Who's Leading the Way - LIVE EDITION
In this very special episode of the podcast, welcome to this live recording of South East Consortium’s2025 “Who’s Leading the Way”.Chris and Fleur are joined by four amazing guests who all bring great insights and views to a range of different topics!Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - www.linkedin.com/company/
Episode 32 - Countdown to SEC 2025 and a special announcement!
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by David Smith (Acting Chief Executive Officer of South East Consortium) where they discuss topics such as the Procurement and the recent Consultation in relation to Housing Associations and the specific work that SEC carry out. Make sure to listen till the end for a special announcement!Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we conti
Episode 31 - Public Money, Public Voice: Procurement Act Consultation Driving UK Industry
In this episode, Chris and Fleur take a deep dive into the recent Cabinet Office lead consultation that took place entitled 'Public Procurement: Growing British Industry, Jobs and Skills'. They explore each of the different areas included in the consultation and share thoughts on the different topics included. Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the discu
Episode 30 - Cleansing Data to Achieve Optimal Procurement Outcomes
Welcome to Episode 30!In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Susan Walsh AKA The Classification Guru!We discuss her winding career path that ultimately landed her into the world of data cleansing, the value it adds to procurement both pre and post contract award, book publications and of couse, the Procurement Act 2023. Dont forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as we continue the
Episode 29 - Housing Associations find their 'Foundation' with the Procurement Act 2023
Welcome to Episode 29!In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Morris Williams, Procurement Manager at L&Q which is one of the leading housing association & residential developer. They discuss the Procurement Act and its implementation by Housing Associations as well as how to drive collaborative relationships within procurement. Don't forget to follow the podcast over on LinkedIn as
Episode 28 - Procuring for a Sustainable Future: Science-Led Solutions from Constructing Excellence
Welcome to Episode 28!In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Alison Nicholl, Head of Constructing Excellence of the Building Research Establishment (BRE). Together, they engage in a thought-provoking conversation following the impactful work being done by Constructing Excellence. Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 -
Episode 27 - Recruitment Evolution: Navigating the Procurement Act 2023
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Gabriel Quarm and Matt Williment from Procurement Heads where they discuss all about recruitment within the procurement industry and the impact that they have seen since the launch of the Procurement Act in February 2025.Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin
Episode 26 - PA23 Two Months In: Reflecting on the Journey and Future Plans
Join Chris and Fleur in this episode where they discuss where we currently are and what we have seen since the launch of the Procurement Act 2023 two months ago (February 2025). They also give you a bit of a sneak peak into what to expect with our podcast and new YouTube channel! Make sure to list to find out all about our new content coming soon! Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we
Episode 25 - Making the Grade - Applying the Procurement Act in Higher Education
In this first episode of Season 2, as well as continuing to follow the now live Procurement Act 2023, Chris and Fleur talk to Valerio Ficcadenti who is an Associate Professional in Business Research Methods at Lodon South Bank University. They explore the impact of the new Procurement Act in relation to Higher Education procurement activities. Valerio's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com
Episode 24 - Powering up Procurement
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Annalisha Noel from The Procurement Plug to discuss what our hopes are for public sector procurement following the implementation of the Procurement Act 2023. With only days to go until the launch of the Act, this will be the last episode before entering a new world of procurement regulations. Annalisha's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/i
Episode 23 - "The One With All The PPNs"
In this episode, with less than one week to go until the Procurement Act 2023 goes live, Chris and Fleur discuss the latest news and updates that have been seen in the past week as well as taking a look at the recently published Procurement Policy Notes (PPNs). Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/g
Episode 22 - Compliance alone does not drive good procurement
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Martin Medforth, a respected public procurement and contract management advisor, mediator and pracademic. This insightful discussion focuses not only on the Procurement Act but also how compliance alone does not drive good procurement.
Martin's LinkedIn page - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martin-medforth-aa4ab1/
Don't forget to join our Link
Episode 21 - Success is not a single event, both a 'Matrix' of consistent efforts and strategic decisions
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Anthony Feagan and Kirstie Wilson from Matrix.
They discuss how Matrix can support Public Sector clients as well as some of the key benefits that they think the new Procurement Act will bring to public sector procurement activity.
Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://ww
Episode 5 - Ready, Set 'go-live'
In this episode, we have our 1st guest speaker joining the podcast.
Kieran McGaughey, a Consultant Solicitor specialising in public procurement law, joins us to discuss the key headlines from the last month as well as why it is better to be proactive rather than reactive when it comes to preparation ahead of the new regulations being launched.
Check out Kieran's LinkedIn page - https://www.link
Episode 12 - Procurement Act and the CIPS Procurement & Supply Cycle - Part 1
Join us in Part 1 of a ‘mini-series’ where we explore the changes that will be seen with the Procurement Act 2023 in comparison to the CIPS Procurement & Supply Cycle.
We discuss the first six stages in this episode from Defining the Need through to Supplier Selection and Participation in a Tender.
The CIPS Procurement & Supply Cycle diagram that we discuss as part of this episode can be
Episode 20 - Making Tender Opportunities Attractive to SMEs in Construction Procurement
In this episode, join Chris and Fleur as they answer some of your questions and bring insights as to how public sector procurement can maximise the use of SMEs within the Construction market and procurement processes.
Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13006179/
Fleur's LinkedIn page - https
Episode 19 - Review of the Year 2024
In this episode, Chris and Fleur get all reflective with our "Review of the Year'. We take a month-by-month recap of the Procurement Act 2023 and the journey to where we are today heading into 2025. We also take a look back at the previous 18 episodes since starting this podcast.
Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion all around the Procurement Act 2023 - https://ww
Episode 18 - What's next for Frameworks?
In this episode, Chris and Fleur are joined by Faye Dolan, Framework Director at Procure Partnerships and discuss all about the changes that will be seen in this space with the implementation of the Procurement Act, as well as how Procure Partnerships can support Public Sector Authorities and Suppliers alike with the use of their agreements.
Faye's LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/f
Episode 17 - The Future of Procurement
In this episode, we are joined by futurist Ant Morse from Adventa and author of ‘The Future of Us’. We discuss all about digital transformation and the future of Procurement along with the changes that we may see with the introduction of the Procurement Act. 2023.
Ant's LinkedIn Profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/antmorse/
Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discussion
Episode 16 - Gaining Market Intel with Pre-Market Engagement
In this episode where we focus on Market Engagement, we are joined by Moira Skinner from ProcureCo and talk all about how public sector buyers along with suppliers can gain useful market intel from their platform.
For those that have not come across ProcureCo previously, they have produced an online platform which can help public procuring organisations level up their procurement intel as part o
Episode 15 - Procurement Act Impressions (2)
Join us in the 2nd episode of our Impressions sub-series where we will speak to individuals from the sector about the Procurement Act 2023 and their interpretation ahead of the go-live date which has now been extended to 24th February 2025.
In this episode, we talk with Chris Elliott and discuss all about the Act and how organisations are preparing for implementation.
Don't forget to join our Li
Episode 14 - Procurement Act Impressions (1)
Join us in the 1st episode of our Impressions sub-series where we will speak to individuals from the sector about the Procurement Act 2023 and their interpretation ahead of the go-live date which has now been extended to 24th February 2025.
In this episode, we talk with Ann-Marie Cooper and discuss all about the Act and how organisations are preparing for implementation.
Don't forget to join our
Episode 13 - Procurement Act and the CIPS Procurement & Supply Cycle - Part 2
Join us in Part 2 of a ‘mini-series’ where we explore the changes that will be seen with the Procurement Act 2023 in comparison to the CIPS Procurement & Supply Cycle.
We discuss the remaining seven stages in this episode from 'Issue Tender Documents' through to 'Supplier Relationship Management' and 'Asset Management'.
The CIPS Procurement & Supply Cycle diagram that we discuss as part
Episode 11 - Two months till go-live
As we have reached the point where it is just under two months to go till the go-live of the Procurement Act 2023, join us for a general chat/catch-up on where we currently are and how we see the next few months.
We discuss areas such as the key areas that we think that Public Sector Authorities will be focusing on and what we are looking forward when the new Regulations are live.
Don't forg
Episode 10 - Dynamic Markets
In this episode, we celebrate hitting our 1st milestone of the 10th podcast recording as well as continuing with the listener’s choice and focusing on Dynamic Markets.
We follow on from our Frameworks episode and discuss all the changes that will be seen as part of the new Dynamic Markets approach which will replace the existing Dynamic Purchasing Systems and Qualification Systems.
Don't fo
Episode 9 - Frameworks
This episode of the podcast focuses specifically on Frameworks which was a listener’s choice from our recent poll and a subject area that has been raised on numerous occasions.
Join us as we explore the recently published guidance on Frameworks and the changes that we will see with the introduction of the new Procurement Act.
Don't forget to join our LinkedIn group as we continue the discuss
Episode 8 - Plan, Act, Do (Procurement Maturity)
In this episode, we are joined by a guest speaker and talk about taking procurement temperature checks ahead of the new Procurement Act.
Spencer Hill from Icosa Ltd joins us to discuss the merits of undertaking an organisational Procurement Maturity Assessment and whilst an exercise that can be carried out at any point, with “Go-live” looming the Act provides that extra necessity as the sector pr
Episode 7 - Social Value Deep Dive
In this episode, we are joined by a guest speaker and have a deep dive into Social Value!
Siobhan Goss, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at Matrix, joins us to look further into Social Value and the key areas of focus that Public Sector Authorities should consider especially with the new Procurement Act coming into force later this year.
Link to Siobhan's LinkedIn page - https://www.link
Episode 6 - Routes to Market
This episode of the podcast looks to discuss the new Routes to Market approaches that will be available under the new Procurement Act 2023 including what procedures can be used, the flexibilities that the Competitive Flexible Procedure allows as well as the changes that will be seen to the Direct Award Process.
Come and join our LinkedIn group where we discuss all things Procurement Act related -
Episode 4 - Contract Management
Lets explore and discuss one of the key topics from within the Procurement Act 2023, Contract Management. In this episode, Chris and Fleur talk about what it means to us as well as some of the key elements that we will see being introduced into the public sector when the new regulations go live
Trailer (A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown)
Trailer/Intro for 'A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown'
Episode 3 - Sustainability & Social Value
Welcome to the 3rd episode of 'A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown'! In this episode, Chris and Fleur discuss where we currently are as at the start of March 2024 and explore two key areas covering Sustainability and Social Value within procurement processes and the changes that we will see
Episode 2 - Key Themes of the 2023 Procurement Act
Join Chris and Fleur as they explore the key themes and impacts of the upcoming Public Procurement Reform Act 2023, and the opportunities and challenges for public sector entities and suppliers
Episode 1 - What lies ahead for the Act in 2024
In this 1st episode of 'A Procurement Podcast - The Reform Rundown', Chris and Fleur explore the key themes and impacts of the upcoming Public Procurement Reform Act 2023 as well as the opportunities and challenges for Public Sector entities and suppliers.
