In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare procurement, Bhagyesh Parmar stands out as a strategic leader at GCS Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre. With 18 years of experience, he has honed a results-oriented approach that emphasizes efficiency, innovation, and team empowerment. Bhagyesh has successfully implemented e-procurement systems and strategies like reverse auctions, ensuring cost savings without compromising quality. He adeptly navigates the complexities of supply chain management, fostering strong supplier partnerships while mentoring the next generation of leaders. In this interview, we delve into Bhagyesh Parmar’s insights on overcoming challenges, adapting to market trends, and inspiring teams to drive success in the healthcare sector.
How have your experiences in previous roles shaped your approach at GCS Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre?
Over my 18-year career, I have focused on streamlining procurement and supply chain processes to achieve cost savings and quality improvements. I implemented e-procurement systems and introduced strategies like reverse auctions, reducing costs while ensuring high-quality medical equipment and supplies. My experience in managing procurement for large healthcare institutions has sharpened my negotiation skills and strengthened supplier relationships. At GCS Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre, these efforts continue to drive efficiencies while upholding our commitment to delivering exceptional healthcare services.
What strategic decisions do you take when forecasting price and market trends in the healthcare sector?
When forecasting price and market trends in the healthcare sector, I rely on a combination of data analysis, supplier engagement, and industry insight. I analyse historical pricing trends, market demand, and supply chain factors to anticipate fluctuations in costs for medical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and supplies. Strong supplier partnerships keep me informed of changes in pricing, production, and technology, enabling long-term contracts and bulk discounts. I also track emerging technologies that may disrupt the market and affect procurement strategies. By diversifying suppliers and regularly reassessing vendor performance, I mitigate risks from price volatility or supply disruptions. By combining these strategies, I ensure that GCS Medical College, Hospital & Research Centre is well-prepared for market changes while maintaining a balance between cost-efficiency and quality care delivery.
How would you define your leadership style in managing procurement operations across various healthcare facilities?
My leadership style in managing procurement operations is strategic, collaborative, and results-oriented. I focus on driving efficiency, innovation, and team empowerment. With a long-term vision, I ensure procurement aligns with healthcare facility goals, integrating technologies like e-procurement and reverse auctions to achieve cost savings without compromising quality. I foster collaboration, encouraging open communication among clinicians, suppliers, and end users to ensure procurement decisions meet organizational needs. My approach is also results-driven, with clear, measurable goals for cost savings, quality improvements, and efficiency. By tracking performance metrics, we consistently meet procurement objectives, delivering financial value and high-quality outcomes.
What challenges do you face while leading supply chain management, and how do you overcome them?
Leading supply chain management in healthcare presents unique challenges, such as fluctuating prices, regulatory complexities, and ensuring timely delivery of critical supplies. To address cost pressures, I negotiate long-term contracts, implement reverse auctions, and use e-procurement systems to enhance supplier competition, reducing costs while maintaining product quality.Vendor management is streamlined by fostering strong supplier relationships and conducting regular performance reviews to ensure consistency. For technological integration, I invest in team training and adopt user-friendly digital procurement platforms, facilitating smoother transitions and improving efficiency. By anticipating these challenges and applying proactive solutions, I ensure supply chain operations are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with the high standards of healthcare delivery.
What is one major lesson you have learned in your career that you apply to your work every day?
One major lesson I have learned in my career is the importance of adaptability—the ability to pivot quickly in response to changing circumstances. In healthcare procurement, market dynamics, technological advancements, and regulatory environments are constantly evolving. Being adaptable enables me to navigate these shifts while ensuring that my team and I remain focused on our core goals: securing the best quality products at the best value for the organization.
How do you inspire and mentor your team to develop into future leaders?
I mentor and inspire my team to develop into future leaders by focusing on empowerment, growth opportunities, and leading by example. I encourage them to take ownership of their projects, giving them the autonomy to make decisions, which builds confidence and enhances their problem-solving and leadership skills.By maintaining an open-door policy, I foster a culture where team members feel comfortable sharing ideas, challenges, and aspirations. I lead by modelling the behaviours I expect, demonstrating a commitment to excellence, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.This approach of empowerment, mentorship, and development helps my team evolve into confident leaders capable of driving success in their careers and contributing meaningfully to the organizations they serve.
