HEAD OF PROCUREMENT AND SUPPLY, WEST ESSEX PCT, 34

After completing a procurement degree in his country of birth, Zimbabwe, Solomon Nyamande learnt his practical skills in a number of roles there before moving to the UK in 2000 to join Princes Soft Drinks as a supply chain co-ordinator. Nyamande then became supply chain manager at BARCO Chemicals where he supervised more than 50 staff and sourced raw materials internationally.

He moved into the public sector in 2005 as a supplies buyer for Whipps Cross NHS University Trust, followed by a role at the London Borough of Redbridge and then head of procurement at Thurrock Council.

He has a Masters in purchasing and supply management, as well as MCIPS, and joins West Essex NHS Primary Care Trust in January.

He believes purchasing can play a key role in affecting social change. He has worked on the construction of a school playground and a care home for the elderly. He hopes eventually to have a role in development, aid, healthcare or disaster relief, improving people’s quality of life in Africa.