To shatter a myth in a Changing World: A Look at the Procurement Revolution at ICL
When people think about procurement, the first word that often comes to mind is price. Did we buy cheaply? Did we save money? But in today’s chaotic and global business world, procurement is much more than price. “Procurement today is far beyond just price,” says Dina Gerz, Senior Vice President at ICL, responsible for Global Indirect & Logistics Procurement.
In the following article, we will present three original perspectives on the world of procurement, drawn from a unique supplier event hosted by ICL in Amsterdam. The goal of these perspectives is both to shutter the common myths about procurement and to inspire other global organizations.
The Context: Chaos, Disruptions, and the Imperative to Change
Global procurement divisions today operate in an environment fraught with uncertainty and continuous disruptions. Global events – such as wars (Russia-Ukraine, Middle East), airspace closures, and the shutdown of vital sea lanes (as seen in the Middle East) – create dramatic repercussions for global supply chains.
As a result, shipments are delayed, prices fluctuate aggressively, and the supply of essential raw materials is jeopardized. Consequently, global organizations must adopt more original and resilient approaches to their procurement activities. Buttomline, Procurement is no longer just an operational function; it has become the core of business resilience.
ICL: A Look Behind the Scenes of a Global Giant
ICL (ICL Group Ltd.) is a leading global corporation in the specialty minerals sector, primarily serving the agriculture (specialty fertilizers, potash, and phosphates) and industrial (industrial chemicals, flame retardants, water treatment solutions) markets. ICL operates a unique, integrated business model: it extracts raw materials (bromine, potash, phosphates) and utilizes sophisticated processing and technological formulas to create added value for its customers worldwide. The company operates sites in 13 countries and maintains a logistics and sales network in over 30 countries.
ICL’s global indirect and logistics procurement activity is enormous: over $3 billion annually (projected for 2025) across 38 production sites globally. This expenditure covers a broad spectrum of areas: mining equipment, contractors, energy, MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations), process and mechanical equipment, IT, professional services, and complex logistical agreements.
The Global Supplier Conference:
3 Perspectives on a Different Kind of Procurement
In November 2023, ICL held its Global Supplier Conference in Amsterdam, attended by approximately 500 suppliers from around the world.
In 2025, the company returned for a new two-day conference. Leading up to the conference, Iwas askedto work with three senior global managers to craft compelling TED-style talks that would present ICL’s global procurement activity from unconventional angles.
This was the opportunity to showcase procurement as a strategic, growth-driving force, rather than merely a cost center.
The speakers, three executives from ICL’s Procurement Division – each with a different geographic background – presented three unique perspectives: Partnership, Personalization, and Sustainability:
1st Ted Talk:
The Power of Strategic Partnership Against Crisis: Ido Lilian
Ido Lilian, Global Procurement and CAPEX Manager at ICL, opened the conference with his talk: “Crossing Stormy Waters and Emerging Victorious: The Power of Strategic Partnership in Times of Crisis.”
“At the end of the day,” Lilian concluded, “our strategic partnership – built on the concept of mutual success, on the desire to work together and enjoy the partnership – is our true Secret Weapon.
It’s a partnership that overcomes every challenge, and it is the force that allows us not just to survive, but to thrive and grow.
It enables Business Continuity, drives Growth, and continuously builds a strong and excellent Reputation.
Together, we will continue to enjoy mutual support and achieve far-reaching success. Because after all, we are a family.”
2nd Ted Talk:
Dina Gerz presented – “Global is Personal: Procurement Leadership in a World of Disruption.”
Gerz emphasized that as procurement leaders, “We are no longer just managing costs – we are navigating a world shaped by geopolitics, climate change, and shifting trade alliances.”
In a world of constant disruptions, procurement is not just about price – it’s about Resilience, Continuity, and above all – Relationships.
“While business activity is global, procurement activity is personal,” Gerz explained:
“Behind every Purchase Order (PO) stands a person. Behind every shipment stands a story. And in crisis situations, the key is people. They are the force that drives everything… they are the bridge to overcoming every challenge.”
At ICL, they believe the best way to deal with uncertainty and crises is to be prepared. And the best way to be prepared is to build strong, reliable relationships with suppliers long before the storm hits.
3rd TED Talk:
Dr. Heinrich Berger – “Impact Multiplied: Brave Leadership & Collaboration for a Greener Future.”
Dr. Berger, VP of Raw Materials at ICL Group), focused on sustainability:
ICL views Sustainable Procurement as an integral part of its strategy. As a company committed to making a positive impact on the worlds of food, agriculture, and industry, leading a green transformation requires not only internal innovation but also brave collaboration with global suppliers. Procurement becomes the engine that pushes the entire supply chain toward sustainable practices.
Conclusion: A Global Family on the Path to Success
The Supplier Conference was a meteoric success. The message that the company’s procurement is strategy-driven and based on strategic collaborations with suppliers worldwide was conveyed precisely and emotionally. ICL strengthened the trust with its suppliers, boosted their motivation to lend a hand during crises, and instilled the understanding that the company, in turn, will do everything in its power to fulfill its part in the strategic alliance.
If you are planning an event, conference, or convention, local or global, and are looking for a theme that will optimally convey your strategic messages and motivate your audience, a TED-style talk event with dedicated company speakers is the optimal solution for presenting an innovative procurement vision.
Contact us >> for more information and customized proposal for a TED style company event
