The 11th Annual Asia-Pacific CPO Forum

AI, Altered Realities, and Trust

With Artificial Intelligence set to alter the power balance between large and small business, what role does the CPO need to play to prepare their companies to ride the wave of technological change? This session will explore how a culture of deep innovation applies in the age of Machine Learning, the how the definition of ‘trust’ has shifted with the advent of Blockchain Technology.

One of Australia's leading futurists will engage with the procurement community to share their unique and inspirational vision of a machine-led future where human ideas can flourish.

Human Interactions and the Power of the Brain

Modern science has discredited the idea that the human brain is ‘fixed’ after childhood, revealing instead that the brain has an enormous amount of plasticity and can be improved at any age. What are the practical tools, strategies and techniques available to boost your creativity and brain power? This session will also focus on the science of human interactions and the many non-verbal signals that are sent and received during conversations, including negotiations.

Todd Sampson is an award-winning documentary-maker, television presenter and former CEO of the communication company Leo Burnett Australia. Sampson is the writer, host and human guinea pig of the award-winning Discovery Science series, Redesign My Brain.

Design Thinking

Throw out everything you’ve learnt about problem-solving, set aside your preconceptions and learn anew. Led by some of Australia’s leading experts in design thinking, this interactive workshop will equip delegates with a new approach to creatively and effectively solve any business problem.

Getting Into The Black

You’ve heard of Big Data, but what about the benefits of unlocking Dark Data? What previously hidden sources of information are now becoming available? How can procurement get to grips with the Black Economy?

Former KPMG Global CEO and Chairman, Michael Andrew, is currently the Chair of the Board of Taxation and the Black Economy Taskforce. Andrews will share findings and recommendations from the Taskforce’s review of the Black Economy, which is estimated to be worth $30 billion and costs the nation around $2.5 billion in foregone tax revenue each year.

Procure with Purpose

Procurement is in a unique position to drive ethical behaviour across the supply chain, eradicate modern-day slavery, broaden supplier diversity and – in some cases – save lives. CPO Forum attendees will be presented with five, 10-minute pitches from innovative suppliers who intend to make the world a better place through their unique solutions.

Get To Grips With One Belt, One Road

Encompassing Asia, Europe, Oceania and East Africa, China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is a development strategy with an anticipated cumulative investment of US$4 to $8 trillion. The BRI is a truly 21-first century supply chain, embodying digital technology including embedded sensors and data analytics to leapfrog past current supply chain practices.

Helen Sawczak, National CEO of the Australia China Business Council, will join delegates to discuss what the BRI means to them, demonstrate what we can learn from China and illustrate the sheer scale of the initiative.

Creating Conditions For Growth

What are the building blocks that CPOs can provide to help their CFOs create optimal conditions for growth? What are some of the mistakes that could hinder this effort?

As CFO of Australian Foundation Investment Company (AFIC) and President of the G100, the peak body for Australian CFOs, Andrew Porter will share his experience of how to optimise the unique relationship between CPOs and CFOs, along with his views on what the Federal Government can do to supercharge growth in Australia.

Be Inspired By An Epic Turnaround

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Described as the two off-field architects of the Tigers' meteoric comeback and premiership victory, Richmond President Peggy O'Neal and CEO Brendon Gale have an incredible tale to share of how the club rocketed from 13th on the AFL ladder to win the flag the following year.

The dynamic partners will join CPO Forum delegates in Melbourne on Tuesday 1st May to discuss the winning formula that created the right conditions - both on and off the field - to usher in the club's first premiership in 37 years.