Episode 32: Brish Bhan Vaidya

In this episode of the Titanium Economy Podcast, host Vivek Sharma speaks with Brish Bhan Vaidya, Global Procurement Executive at Uber, on how procurement is evolving from a cost function to a strategic growth enabler. Brish highlights the shift toward multi-tier supplier diversification, AI-driven intelligence, ESG integration, and proactive scenario planning to build resilient, agile sourcing models aligned with business objectives. Brish leads APAC Strategic Sourcing and the Global Buying Center at Uber, bringing 20+ years of experience across BT, Accenture, and American Express. He has driven large-scale procurement transformations, strengthening supplier partnerships, embedding digital and AI capabilities, and building world-class sourcing frameworks to deliver sustained value across complex global supply chains. Discussion Points (00:00) Procurement’s evolution: Shift from cost center to strategic value driver, requiring proactive planning amid tariffs and geopolitical disruption. (6:27) Managing sourcing risk: Multi-tier supplier diversification is now the baseline to address ESG, insolvency, and geopolitical uncertainty. (13:21) Building resilience: Effective sourcing hinges on supplier optionality, performance tracking, and co-creation, with TCO factoring in disruption risk. (17:39) AI in procurement: AI accelerates category intelligence, supplier risk analysis, and contract lifecycle management. (32:03) Future-ready leadership: Procurement leaders must blend ESG rigor with commercial acumen and digital fluency. For More Information Brish Bhan Vaidya LinkedIn Titanium Economy Ayna.AI Website Vivek Sharma LinkedIn