Interview with Emilia Cedeno

Ahead of our Client and Partner day, we spoke with Emilia Cedeno one of our fab speakers!

Let’s start with something close to our heart: Digital Buying Community that was launched this year. Tell us a bit about it? What’s the vision?

Really close to my heart. The digital buying community started with the idea of bringing buyers of technology/digital together to celebrate the profession (many times overseen within the digital journey), also to discuss the current challenges and opportunities that we have and as community put in place best practices. We had our first meet up back in March with 17 buyers. Now we are about 155 buyers around CG and WPS.

So how has it been going? What has been the feedback so far?

The feedback has been amazing. Buyers are really happy with the approach and we continue to discuss topics that are of interest. Also, we are receiving a lot of feedback that will continue to support our user research. Our aim will always be to put in place agreements that are fit for purpose.

How can suppliers support this work?

Feedback from suppliers is key. Suppliers are reading the opportunities on a day to day basis, so any feedback regarding an opportunity is very much welcome. Suppliers also can provide us with any best practices that they have for us to share with the buyers during our meetups. What are their challenges and quick wins, the buying community is always receptive to these.

There is no doubt that the Digital Marketplace has revolutionised public sector procurement. What has been the biggest benefit for buyers and suppliers?

The Digital Marketplace has indeed revolutionised the way we procure technology and digital.

Main benefits for buyers and suppliers will be:

• Openness and transparency
• SME friendly
• Easy and quick to use
• Broad range of competition

What are your top tips for suppliers looking to sell to government through the Digital Marketplace?

My recommendation to suppliers would be chose what you bid for, put the effort on it and raise questions. Use CCS and GDS to your advantage. We are here to help! Refresh your knowledge by joining our suppliers’ webinars.

With special thanks to Emilia for her time and we can’t wait to hear more of what she has to say on the day!