At CPO Outlook 2025, Hempel will host a Theme Discussion on how to strengthen indirect procurement. Michael C. Catalan, Director Indirect Procurement, will lead the session “Building a High-Impact Indirect Procurement Team — Without Creating a New Silo.”
Why this matters
Indirect procurement often struggles to gain the same recognition and resources as direct categories. Yet its impact is significant — spanning IT, marketing, professional services, and facilities. The challenge lies in building a strong indirect procurement capability that is strategic and value-adding, without creating another siloed function. Hempel’s roundtable will explore how to strike this balance.
What will be discussed
- What does it take to build up a functional procurement structure from a low baseline?
- How do you avoid creating silos when standing up new operating models?
- Where and how do you embed collaboration and visibility across functions?
About the speaker
Michael C. Catalan, Director Indirect Procurement, Hempel
Michael leads Hempel’s indirect procurement function, driving transformation and professionalization of non-direct categories. With broad international procurement experience, he focuses on creating value across categories that touch every part of the business. LinkedIn
About Hempel
Hempel is a global coatings manufacturer founded in 1915, employing around 7,000 people across 100 countries. The company develops and manufactures coating solutions for the protective, decorative, marine, container, industrial and yacht segments.
Knowledge loop: from Xperience to Outlook
At the EBG | Xperience workshops earlier this year, procurement leaders shared their top challenges and priorities. The Post-Survey Report captures what is on the minds of peers across the Nordics — from risk and resilience to ESG and digitalisation. Hempel’s roundtable adds to this ongoing dialogue by focusing on indirect procurement and how to build impact without unnecessary complexity.
📥 Download the full Post-Xperience Report here: EBG | Xperience 2025 Post-Survey Report
About CPO Outlook 2025
CPO Outlook 2025 is the Nordic meeting place for procurement leaders who want to move beyond theory and share what actually works.
On October 15–16 in Stockholm, you will take part in 40+ interactive roundtables, practical workshops, and keynotes from companies like Hempel, Orion Pharma, Electrolux, Scania, SSAB, Equinor, Handelsbanken, Konecranes, and NCC. You will also meet expert organisations such as Ivalua, Coupa, Prewave, EcoVadis, ServiceNow, Accenture, and more.
Unlike traditional conferences, CPO Outlook is built for depth, not overload. You choose your agenda. Each discussion is designed for real peer exchange. Sessions run twice to ensure diverse perspectives. Seats are strictly limited to keep the conversation meaningful.
📍 Stockholm, Hotel Birger Jarl
🗓️ October 15–16, 2025
🔗 Explore the full agenda