Welcome to the #loveprocurement podcast, where we bring you a fresh and lighthearted take on all things procurement. We’ll dive into this fascinating world with a twist of humor and a sprinkle of fun. Each episode explores a different topic, inviting industry experts and special guests to share their insights, experiences, and stories.

For those that #loveprocurement or are curious why others do.

Season 2 – Episode 24

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Season 2 EP 24: Data in the Age of AI feat Joseph Yacura & Alex Saric

Episode Description

RELEASED January 20, 2026

Technology is advancing at a rapid pace, but even though data is a critical input to AI, automation, and analytics, it remains a secondary (or tertiary…) priority for most procurement organizations. If they want to realize the full potential impact of cutting-edge tech, that prioritization is going to have to change.

In this episode of the #LoveProcurement podcast, host Kelly Barner welcomes Joseph Yacura and Alex Saric to the show. Joe is a senior advisor to M.I.T.’s Chief Data Officer Information Quality Program and was CPO at several leading financial services firms, and Alex is the Chief Marketing Officer at Ivalua.

Joe and Alex discuss considerations and opportunities related to data, including how to ensure it supports rather than hinders your AI strategy:

Why the move from process efficiency to knowledge efficiency that is underway will be very disruptive to traditional thinking and require new sets of skills.
How procurement can establish a data strategy that addresses accuracy, accessibility, relevance, and completeness
The challenges presented when organizations don’t trust their own data – and the doors that open when they do
Best practices and critical success factors related to data that all companies should keep in mind

Links:

Joseph Yacura on LinkedIn

Alex Saric on LinkedIn