Breaking down barriers in public procurement means improving how buyers and suppliers work together—but what does better engagement look like in practice?
In this webinar, hosted by Emma Ritchie, we’ll explore procurement from both sides of the process. Drawing on experience across public sector roles, consultancy work, and supplier engagement, the discussion will highlight the real challenges SMEs face when bidding and how communication, engagement, and accessibility can be improved.
Mandy Millar and Daniella Bryans will bring perspectives from across public sector procurement, consultancy, and supplier engagement to explore how clearer communication and early, compliant engagement can improve outcomes for both buyers and SMEs.
Together, they’ll explore:
- Barriers SMEs face when bidding for public sector work
- The role of early engagement in improving outcomes
- Balancing compliance with meaningful supplier engagement
- Real examples of good practice, including SPA roadshows
- What procurement professionals can learn from the bidder perspective
- Practical ways to improve communication and collaboration
This session is for anyone involved in procurement, commissioning, or supplier engagement who wants to improve outcomes and make the process more effective and inclusive.
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Daniella Bryans
Senior procurement Officer at Scottish Procurement Alliance
Daniella Bio - Daniella Bryans is a Senior Procurement Officer at the Scottish Procurement Alliance (SPA) with over 10 years’ experience in public sector procurement across Scotland. Her career has spanned a Centre of Expertise, a blue light service and a not-for-profit framework provider which has given her a broad and practical understanding of procurement governance, compliance and strategic commercial delivery.
Daniella is passionate about the role procurement can play in delivering meaningful social, economic and community outcomes - not just compliant processes. She is committed to strengthening both sides of the procurement landscape by supporting procurement professionals at all stages of their careers alongside improving accessibility, understanding and confidence within local supply chains and SMEs. Through best practice training and practical knowledge sharing, Daniella aims to build commercial confidence, support compliance and promote sustainable value-driven procurement at every level.
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Emma Ritchie
Business Manager - Procurement
With five years of experience in recruitment, Emma is a Business Manager specialising in procurement recruitment, partnering with professionals and public sector organisations across a highly specialised and competitive market. She works closely with procurement leaders to identify and attract high-quality talent, while also supporting candidates throughout their job search with interview preparation, market insight, career guidance, and ongoing mentorship to help them navigate career moves with confidence.
Known for her people-first approach and strong understanding of the procurement landscape, Emma has built a reputation as a trusted partner to both clients and candidates, helping professionals make informed career decisions within an evolving market.
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