How cross sector collaboration is changing university procurement

Following their session at Procurex England, Rebecca Baxter and Clare Riley were invited to continue the conversation and explore why cross-sector collaboration isn't a structural fix, it's a mindset shift. Universities across the UK are facing increasing pressure from budget constraints, supply chain disruption, changing market conditions and growing demand for services. In response, procurement leaders are looking beyond individual institutions and embracing more collaborative approaches to planning, sourcing and supplier engagement. For suppliers, this shift creates significant opportunities. Greater collaboration between universities and procurement consortia can lead to improved visibility of future demand, more coordinated procurement activity, stronger supplier relationships and access to larger, more strategic opportunities across the higher education sector. UKUPC speakers: Rebecca Baxter, Managing Director, NEUPC Clare Riley, Senior Commercial Manager, SUPC