Having come from a background in technology, Ceaneh Alexis appreciates the growth benefits that the innovative use of technology can bring to contingent workforce programs. And she is applying that understanding to Aon, a global professional services firm, where she oversees category management and delivery for professional services, HR and legal as global head of procurement for services.

Aon has a mature MSP-managed CW program in North America and the UK that provides enhanced compliance, better spend visibility and the flexibility to turn around contractors quickly when needed — a capability that has been especially valuable during the pandemic. Like many companies, Aon faced hurdles in moving toward virtual work during the pandemic, but Alexis found that extending the company’s talent search outside Aon core office locations expanded the available talent pool.

Alexis is proud of the program’s recent expansion to additional countries in Europe and Asia-Pacific and the creation of an internal project management office to oversee operations. Aon now has an internally managed and an MSP-managed CW program, providing program stakeholders with more options.

Alexis feels strongly that diversity and equity initiatives are another key to growth. Aon has a robust supplier diversity program and several community-based DE&I programs, including a national apprentice program.

For Alexis, the work is all about people. “Our talent, internal colleagues and external workforce are our greatest assets,” she says. “We are in the people business.”