Archlet brought the “Beyond the AI Hype” series to Lausanne, teaming up with EPFL’s Sustainable Resilient Value Chains (SRVC) Executive Education program for an evening of knowledge-sharing, practical insights, and lively networking. Hosted at EPFL, the event brought together over 85 participants from more than 53 companies.

Our Lausanne Speakers: Insights from Procurement Experts

The evening began with Elaine Moran, Executive Director of EPFL’s SRVC program, who introduced the initiative’s mission to build more resilient, sustainable, and tech-enabled value chains through executive education. She set the stage by outlining the key capabilities procurement leaders will need to drive future impact, from systems thinking to circular economy strategies.

Next, Ilona Piekoszewska, Global Head of Indirect Procurement at Givaudan, shared how AI and data are enabling procurement to create value across cost, risk, sustainability, and innovation. Her keynote highlighted lessons from Givaudan’s digital journey, including the role of interactive workshops, strong internal sponsorship, and clear KPIs in driving adoption and long-term success.

Following Ilona, Nico Bac, Founder of Digital Procurement Now and former P&G leader, explored what it takes to turn AI investments into measurable business outcomes. He emphasized the importance of focusing on adoption first, ensuring technology is embedded into daily processes for buyers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders alike.

Lukas Wawrla, Co-Founder of Archlet, then showcased how Archlet’s AI agent, Spark, is already transforming sourcing workflows. From RFP creation to bid analysis, scenario optimization, and negotiation preparation, Lukas demonstrated practical use cases of GenAI in procurement, proving that AI is no longer a future promise—it’s delivering value today.

The speaker portion closed with a panel Q&A session, where attendees engaged directly with the experts, discussing real-world adoption challenges, the role of suppliers in AI transformation, and strategies for scaling innovation responsibly.

Conversations, Collaboration, and What’s Ahead

The event wrapped up with networking over food and drinks, giving participants the chance to exchange ideas and explore new connections. It was an evening that blended education with community, underlining that the real power of AI in procurement comes when technology, people, and purpose align.

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Elevate is more than just an event. It’s a conversation shaping the future of procurement. With events happening across Europe and the U.S., each gathering offers fresh insights, new perspectives, and meaningful connections.

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