
World Café Moderators present the three most important takeaways of their Cafés to the plenary.
Senior Manager IT Vendor and Asset Management, Toyota North America
George is Senior Manager of IT Vendor and Asset Management at Toyota North America, where he leads vendor strategy , IT asset management, Contract Lifecycle Management , Service management and governance across IT operations. He previously held several leadership roles within Toyota Motor Engineering and Manufacturing North America, including Senior Manager for Purchasing Project Management and Assistant Manager in Strategic Sourcing. With over a decade at Toyota, his experience spans manufacturing, sourcing, and operational transformation.
Sr Manager - IT BPO Procurement Supplier Relationship Management, Edgewell Personal Care
Experienced IT professional who has transitioned to Supplier Relationship Management within the Procurement organization, with a focus on IT procurement, financial responsibility and team leadership. Leader in supplier relationship management, Strategic IT Procurement, reducing inter office process and cycle time. Ability to discern all aspects of both IT and business requirements to drive delivery and productivity.
IT Category Manager, The Co-operators
Joanna Marks is an IT Category Manager at The Co-operators, where she leads the full sourcing lifecycle for software, hardware, and technology services with a strong focus on sustainability, compliance, and vendor performance. She previously held procurement and sourcing roles at PwC, Walmart Canada, and the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, gaining extensive experience in RFx management, contract negotiations, and supplier relationships. In addition to her work in IT procurement, she is also the recipient of the 2024 Canadian Choice Award for her internationally published children’s book.
Group Director Strategic Procurement & Analysis, Chanel
Aviad is Group Director of Strategic Procurement & Analytics at CHANEL, where he leads IT procurement initiatives, contract negotiations, and data-driven sourcing strategies. Prior to this, he held roles including Global IT & Telecom Procurement at Estée Lauder and Senior Procurement & Project Manager at GOI MOD, managing high-value contracts and cross-functional procurement projects. His background also includes roles at eBay and GE Healthcare, adding strong analytical and project management expertise to his procurement leadership.
At Toyota, we’re known for making some of the highest quality vehicles on the road. But there is more to our story. We believe in putting people first and creating opportunities for our team members to build careers as unique as they are. As one of the world’s most admired brands, we are leading the way to the future of mobility, so everyone can move freely, happily and comfortably. We have big dreams and believe that nothing is impossible.
We are a company of people—a global team of 6,800 visionaries, doers, and makers. With more than 25 brands in our portfolio, we bring joy to more than 50 countries, keeping a keen eye on efficiency and sustainability. Our market-leading global brands deliver innovative shave, grooming, sun care, skin care, and feminine care products that consumers rely on. Our goal is to make these products more inspired, more personal, and more trustworthy, so they can devote more time and energy to the people and activities that bring them joy.
As a leading Canadian financial services co-operative, Co-operators offers multi-line insurance and wealth products, services, and advice to build financial strength and security. With over $56 billion in assets under management, we provide financial solutions and security through property and casualty (P&C) insurance, life insurance, wealth management, institutional asset management and brokerage operations. We are governed by member organizations, including co-operative organizations, credit union centrals and representative farm organizations. We are rooted in the idea that together, we are stronger, safer, and more resilient. Our vision to be a catalyst for a sustainable society is reflected in everything we do, including our community investment programs, strategic partnerships, and active volunteerism. We champion and fund the development of community-oriented co-operatives and social enterprises, invest for positive impact, and work hard to contribute to communities across Canada by supporting financial literacy, mental health, flood safety, and sustainability initiatives and programming. With over 600 locations across the country, over 6,000 employees and a dedicated financial advisor network of over 2,500 licensed insurance representatives, we remain true to our roots: putting the needs of our clients and our communities first.
Chanel is a private company and world leader in creating, manufacturing and distributing luxury products, including Ready-to-Wear, Accessories, Fragrances, Makeup, Skincare, Jewellery and Watches. Founded by Gabrielle Chanel in 1910, the House remains dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship and offering high-end creations. Chanel employs more than 32,000 people worldwide.