CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE. HONOURING IMPACT.

1 February 2027

Entry Deadline

12 March 2027

Awards and Gala Dinner

Celebrating the Leaders Shaping What Comes Next

For more than two decades, Smart Procurement has been a platform for connection, learning, collaboration and transformation across the procurement and supply chain industry.

But platforms are only as powerful as the people who bring them to life.

The Smart Procurement Leaders Awards were created to recognise the individuals who are not only building successful careers, but are using their influence to develop people, strengthen teams, drive change and create lasting impact within their organisations and the broader industry.

Now in its 2nd year, the awards continue that journey, shining a light on the leaders who are setting new standards, challenging conventional thinking and creating opportunities for those who follow.

The Smart Procurement Leaders Awards celebrate the people shaping procurement today and influencing what the industry becomes tomorrow.

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Recognising leadership, impact and excellence

Awards Categories

Each category recognises a distinct area of excellence — from transformation and digital innovation to sustainability, people leadership and lifetime contribution — honouring leaders who continue to raise the standard for the profession across South Africa and the African continent.

For leaders driving non-digital organisational transformation (strategy, operating model, talent and culture).

For the innovators driving impactful digital transformation and technology adoption.

For leadership in ESG, social responsibility and sustainable business practices.

For leaders who excel at building strong, inclusive cultures and high-performing teams.

For excellence in unlocking value through optimised cash flow, liquidity management and financial strategy.

The top honour for vision, measurable impact and influence across the continent.

Recognising enduring contributions and service to the profession over a distinguished career.

SP Leaders Awards 2026

Congratulations to Our Winners

Winner

Liquid Telecommunications South Africa

SP Leaders Awards 2026

Meet Our Judges

Bernie van Niekerk

Chief Executive Officer, Commerce Edge

Dalton Datechong

Head of Procurement, Old Mutual Insure

Dr. Faith Mashele

Faculty, GIBS Business School

Put forward the leaders shaping the future

2027 Nominations & Entries

Entries for the 2027 Smart Procurement Leaders Awards are now open. Nominate yourself, a colleague or a mentor who is driving procurement and supply chain forward. Every entry follows the same fair, evidence-based process – entries close 1 February 2027.

How the 2027 Entry Process Works

Enter → Initial Screening → Judging → Verification & Audit → Finalists & Winners

Connect with our team

Discuss your specific requirements for the Awards Gala

Our team is ready to provide the detailed information and pricing you need to secure your involvement.

Align Your Brand with Excellence

Become a Partner in Our 21-Year Legacy

Don’t miss the opportunity to support the next generation of trailblazers. Contact our team today to explore sponsorship packages for the Gala Dinner and Award categories.