About the

Smart Supplier Conference

The Absa Smart Supplier Conference is a premier event co-located at Smart Procurement World.

The event prepares suppliers for business by furnishing them with technical support, whilst creating access to the market through buyer-meet-seller platforms.


SMEs in South Africa still struggle to access markets and get sustainable contracts. At this conference, senior buyers talk them through the various essential processes to access their markets.


This conference aims to boost supplier performance, thereby preparing the corporate ready supplier to become a #SMARTSUPPLIER.

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Smart Supplier SA Programme

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SMART SUPPLIER CONFERENCE

09h00

ARRIVAL REFRESHMENTS

09h00

Registration & Networking

09h00

Supplier MatchUp Sessions

One on one Buyer meetings with corporate and government procurement buyers

12h00

LUNCH BREAK

13h00 | Start of Smart Supplier Conference

13h00

Welcome & Keynote

Fundile Gwala

Group Procurement Category Lead: Facilities & Contract Labour, Pepsico South Africa

13h05

Absa Welcome Address

13h10

SMME Success Story

Aspire to Inspire before you Expire

13h30

Panel discussion – Versatility vs. Expertise: The Real Cost of Being a Jack of All Trades in Business


In today’s dynamic business environment, versatility and adaptability are often celebrated. However, spreading oneself too thin can lead to missed opportunities and burnout. This panel session brings together successful business owners and industry experts to explore the dual-edged sword of being a jack of all trades.”

Moderator

Fundile Gwala

Group Procurement Category Lead: Facilities & Contract Labour, Pepsico South Africa

Panelists

14h30

COMFORT BREAK

14h45

SMME Success Story
Rising to Success: The Bread Box Bakery’s Journey

14h55

Gru or Guru? Are you the villain or hero when it comes to making your own sales


In the world of sales, every decision you make shapes the narrative of your business. Are you seen as the hero who drives success, or the villain who stifles growth? This masterclass will challenge you to reflect on your sales approach—whether you’re leading with a guru’s wisdom or falling into the traps of a Gru. Discover how to transform your mindset, refine your strategies, and become the hero your business needs to thrive in today’s competitive market

15h40

Closing Panel Discussion
Cracking the Corporate Code: A Fireside Chat on Winning Big with Procurement


In the complex world of corporate procurement, small businesses often find themselves navigating a maze of challenges to secure opportunities. This session brings together seasoned procurement practitioners to demystify the process, offering insider insights on how to break through barriers, build valuable partnerships, and thrive in the corporate landscape.

Moderator
Panelists

Fundile Gwala

Group Procurement Category Lead: Facilities & Contract Labour, Pepsico South Africa

16h30

END OF DAY 1

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