Driving Innovation Through Collaborative Procurement

02 Jul 2026
Theatre 3
Procurement & Resources

Procurement is far more than a purchasing function—it is a strategic enabler that shapes capability, drives innovation and strengthens collaboration across the emergency services and wider public sector. This panel will explore procurement at local, national and pan-government levels, examining the opportunities, challenges and lessons learned from delivering complex programmes at scale.

Through a series of real-world case studies, speakers will discuss the national acquisition of state-of-the-art helicopters, the sustainability considerations that can present both opportunities and pitfalls in major procurement projects, and successful examples of cross-government collaboration on fleet management and ICT end-user devices.

The discussion will highlight how organisations can work together to share expertise, achieve greater value and accelerate innovation, providing delegates with practical insights into building more resilient, efficient and future-ready emergency services.

 

Chairperson
Louise Bunce
Louise Bunce, Head of Communications - Blue Light Commercial
Speakers
Billie Heafield
Billie Heafield, Head of Category, Aviation, Sustainability and Social Value - Blue Light Commercial
Steve Imm
Steve Imm, Specialist Contract Manager - Fleet - Blue Light Commercial