Demystifying Social Procurement with Martin Collins from the Victorian Skills Authority

Join our host, Ben Dillon, as he embarks on an enlightening journey to empower local businesses and support workforce development in Greater Bendigo. In this episode, Ben sits down with Martin Collins, Team Leader of North and West Victoria Industry Engagement with the Victorian Skills Authority, to delve into the transformative power of social procurement and its impact on communities.Martin shares his expertise in social procurement, offering practical insights into how businesses can integrate social responsibility into their strategies. Discover the importance of thoughtful purchasing, the potential of social procurement to create win-win situations, and how it can drive positive change within the economy. Learn about the role of mentoring, apprenticeships, and traineeships in building a sustainable and inclusive workforce, and the significance of continuous learning in fostering economic growth.Explore the concept of social enterprise and its potential to generate social good while operating in the open market. Martin highlights the Victorian Social Procurement Framework and its role in creating opportunities for social enterprises and local businesses. Gain valuable advice on how businesses can start making a meaningful impact today by focusing on their strengths and aligning their efforts with their values.This episode is a must-listen for business leaders and HR professionals looking to enhance their social procurement capabilities and build a resilient workforce. Tune in to uncover the potential of social procurement to drive positive change and create a more inclusive economy for all.THIS PODCAST IS SUPPORTED BY WORKFORCE AUSTRALIA LOCAL JOBS BENDIGOWorkforce Australia Local Jobs is funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations. ABOUT OUR HOST BEN DILLONBen Dillon is the Operations Manager of Soft Services at the Bendigo Hospital project for Downer. Passionate about workforce development and community engagement, Ben is dedicated to empowering local businesses and building a skilled workforce for the future.ABOUT BE.BENDIGOEvery successful community has a strong and growing business community. Be.Bendigo exists to provide a range of information, support and programs to assist, develop and grow our Greater Bendigo business community. We are a member-based organisation with a commitment to developing our business so that we can continue to add value for our members, partners and stakeholders.Find out more via our website. Be social on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.