10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Eastern
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
10 AM - 11 AM ET (Virtual Event)
Registration closes January 27, 2026 - 12:00 PM ET.
Public procurement decisions are facing greater scrutiny than ever — from internal auditors, external reviewers, elected officials, suppliers, and the public. Even when decisions are fair and well-intentioned, weak documentation, inconsistent evaluation practices, or unclear rationale can leave procurement professionals exposed.
This OPBA Ignite session focuses on what auditors actually look for when reviewing procurement files and how public procurement professionals can better protect their work throughout the procurement lifecycle. From evaluation and scoring to documentation and post-award decisions, the session will explore practical ways to reduce risk, increase confidence, and ensure procurement decisions are defensible.
Participants will gain insight into:
- Common audit findings and red flags in public sector procurements
- How procurement decisions are assessed after the fact — sometimes years later
- Practical documentation and evaluation practices that strengthen defensibility
- Ways to align procurement processes with policy, fairness, and transparency expectations
Presenters:
Sandra Lisi, Vice President Supplier Engagement — Kinetic GPO
Sandra is a seasoned procurement professional with over two decades of distinguished experience in the public and private sectors. Renowned for her strategic acumen, innovative thinking, and collaborative approach she brings a wealth of knowledge to the Kinetic GPO team as Vice President of Supplier Engagement.
As the Director of Purchasing Client Services at the City of Toronto and Interim Chief Procurement Officer, Sandra led a dynamic team of procurement professionals. She created and implemented the City's category management and strategic sourcing practice, which changed the procurement culture from a buying function to a more strategic approach and partnership with City divisions, Agencies and Boards. Her tenure at the City underscored her exceptional leadership skills and her ability to navigate complex procurement landscapes and deliver impactful results in a high-stakes environment.
Before her role at the City of Toronto, Sandra honed her skills at BMO, where she served as the Director of Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in shaping the bank's procurement strategies and forging strong partnerships with suppliers to drive operational efficiency and cost savings.
Sandra is also the Founder of a not-for-profit organization that supports women and children who are victims of domestic violence living in Ontario shelters.
LouAnn Birkett, CSCMP, FSCMP — Kinetic GPO
LouAnn Birkett, CSCMP, FSCMP, has over 35 years experience in the public sector and retired as Purchasing Manager for the Regional Municipality of Durham in 2016. There she was responsible for the leadership of the Procurement staff to strategically deliver the supply of goods and services required by all Regional Departments. LouAnn has held various volunteer positions with both SCMA, SCMAO, and NISCL including, Vice Chair, and Chair. Most recently she holds the position of Vice Chair of the Nominations Committee for NISCL. LouAnn was awarded the prestigious National Fellowship designation by SCMA in 2017. In addition to instructing for various colleges and other Professional Organizations, LouAnn has extensive experience developing Supply Chain educational programs. Currently, LouAnn is a Senior Supply Chain Advisor – Contracts, for Kinetic GPO, where she continues to utilize her skills in public procurement.
Registration Fees:
|
Title |
Fee |
Member Status |
Points |
CEUs |
Hours |
|
Members |
$20.00 + HST |
Members Only |
0.0000 |
0.0000 |
1.00 |
|
Non Members |
$35.00 + HST |
All Registrants |
0.0000 |
0.0000 |
1.00 |
Please refer to our refund + payment policy for information regarding cancellations and/or refunds.
| 1/28/2026 |    |