Claribelle Rohde: Leadership, Learning, and the Evolution of Procurement
How a Resilient Mindset, Authentic Leadership, and Strategic Vision Are Shaping the Future of Procurement
Navigating the world of procurement takes more than just negotiation skills—it requires resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to learning. Claribelle Rohde, Head of Procurement and Sourcing at Banking Circle, embodies all these traits and more. From an unconventional start in procurement to building her own networks and leading transformative procurement functions, her journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness, intentional learning, and the courage to forge new paths.
A Journey of Resilience and Adaptation
Claribelle’s career did not follow a traditional trajectory. She started working at 18 while studying in Singapore, facing early challenges that shaped her approach to problem-solving and adaptability.
“When I came to Singapore, I had no friends, the local university didn’t take me in, and my dad lost his job,” she recalls. “So here I was, 18 years old, thinking not about which party to go to, but how to pay rent.”
Her early roles ranged from organizing seminars to working as a receptionist and sales representative at a spa. “I had a natural ability to sell,” she notes. “Even today, I can’t believe I once convinced people to buy spa packages worth thousands.”
While these jobs may seem unrelated to procurement, they built critical skills—multitasking, negotiation, and customer engagement—that would later become invaluable in her procurement career.
Breaking into Procurement by Chance, Thriving by Choice
Like many procurement professionals, Claribelle did not initially set out to enter the field. After completing her studies at the University of London, she moved to the UK just as the financial crisis hit. She took on a role in recruitment, where she honed her ability to assess talent and build relationships.
“Recruitment taught me confidence, how to pick up the phone and talk to senior stakeholders, and how to ask the right questions,” she explains.
Her entry into procurement came when she landed a role as a technology sourcing specialist at a major British insurance company.
“I had no idea what procurement really was,” she admits. “In my first three months, I had to renegotiate a multi-million-dollar mobile contract that was about to expire. I had no clue what I was doing, but I figured it out.”
It was this challenge—and the constant opportunity to learn and connect the dots—that got her “hooked” on procurement.
Building Skills and Adapting to Leadership
As Claribelle advanced in her career, she recognized the importance of developing a well-rounded skill set. She categorizes procurement expertise into three areas: technical skills (contract negotiation, risk management, category management), interpersonal skills (stakeholder engagement, communication), and emotional intelligence (trust-building, adaptability).
“You need to build an arsenal of skills and know which tool to use in different situations,” she says.
Her ability to connect with stakeholders and build trust has been a defining strength.
“People buy people,” she emphasizes. “You can present all the data and logic in the world, but if they don’t trust you, it won’t go far.”
This philosophy has guided her approach to stakeholder management, particularly when working with diverse teams.
“I don’t try to change people; I work with them at their level, finding common ground.”
Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges
Claribelle’s career has been marked by both personal and professional obstacles. One of the most significant challenges she faced was during a difficult period of infertility treatments, multiple miscarriages, and surgeries—all while excelling in a demanding procurement role.
“There was a time where in a space of six months, I had three surgeries, two ectopic pregnancies, two IVF cycles, and another miscarriage,” she shares. “Every medical procedure, I went back to work and my colleagues knew none the wiser. I was afraid that if I said something, I would be passed over for a promotion.”
Eventually, the physical and emotional toll forced her to pause.
“My body gave up, and my mind went with it,” she says.
This experience reinforced the importance of self-care, vulnerability, and the need for a strong support system.
“I learned that when you surround yourself with the right people and allow yourself to be vulnerable, you build a network that carries you through the toughest times.”
Leading Procurement Transformation
Today, Claribelle leads procurement for Banking Circle, a financial institution in a rapid growth phase.
“Procurement here is in its startup phase,” she explains. “Right now, we’re focused on compliance and regulatory needs, but I want to shift towards greater control, visibility, and strategic value creation.”
Her leadership philosophy is centered on authenticity, trust, and empowering her team.
“I want my team to feel that I’ve got their back,” she says.
This was exemplified when her team encouraged her to take time off during a particularly challenging period.
“To hear them say, ‘We’ve got this, go take a break,’ was gold. That’s when you know you’ve built a great team.”
The Future of Procurement and Advice for Aspiring Leaders
Looking ahead, Claribelle sees major shifts in procurement driven by technology, data, and ESG considerations.
“AI, automation, and data-driven procurement will accelerate decision-making, but the human element remains irreplaceable,” she predicts. “Building relationships, understanding cultural and contextual nuances, and strategic thinking will always be vital.”
For those aspiring to build a successful procurement career, she offers three key pieces of advice:
“The past forms who you are,” she says. “Look at adversity and failures, take the lessons, and use them to grow.”
She also stresses the importance of self-awareness and intentionality.
“Know your strengths, continuously reflect, and stay authentic. Build trust by delivering results.”
Finally, she highlights the value of having a long-term vision.
“If your focus is only on today’s tasks, you won’t grow. Think long-term, align your work with future goals, and inspire those around you.”
Claribelle’s journey demonstrates that procurement is not just about contracts and negotiations—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and human connection. As she continues to drive transformation, she remains committed to empowering others and shaping the future of procurement through leadership, learning, and authenticity.
What do you think about Claribelle’s leadership approach? Do you agree that self-awareness and adaptability are key to success in procurement? Share your thoughts in the comments below!