REAL CHEMISTRY
“ It’ s not just the partner that needs to be good – we also need to be a good partner back to them.”
It is a philosophy that runs through everything Ontonia does – and one that has started to fundamentally change the way Real Chemistry’ s procurement team interacts with their internal and external partners.
CREDIT: CHARLIE CHALKIN
Women in procurement Ontonia is a passionate advocate for encouraging more women to take up roles in procurement.
Historically, procurement departments have been dominated by men, but Ontonia believes that a female perspective is an incredibly valuable thing in her line of work.
“ With women, I think we can bring a different view and can look at procurement holistically,” she says.“ It’ s not just about the cost. It’ s about those partnerships and the added value.”
To this end, Ontonia has deliberately sought out opportunities to bring colleagues into high-profile meetings and decision-making forums, and she is candid that adopting this behaviour herself has been as important as mandating it.
“ Visibility matters to all women, all people in general, but definitely women as they’ re coming up in their career,” she says.
The goal, she says, is not just to open doors, but to leave them open for others. Her advice to women considering a career in procurement is characteristically direct.
“ Own what you know,” she says.“ Build real relationships, stay curious and don’ t wait to be invited into leadership.”
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