Unlocking the Potential of Collaboration
In this Spring 2026 issue of the OECM Connection, we reflect on the past year and the seasons of progress that have shaped our journey. Drawing on insights from our Annual Report, we highlight the people, partnerships, and strategic direction that continue to strengthen our community and drive value across the public sector.
As we look ahead, this season of renewal also marks an important milestone — OECM’s 20-year anniversary. It’s an opportunity to recognize the collective impact of our customers and supplier partners, and the role collaboration continues to play in advancing procurement excellence. We also share key milestones, updates on new and upcoming agreements, stories, insights, and opportunities that reflect the strength of our partnerships and support continued engagement across the sector.
Highlights
OECM’s 2025 Annual Report
OECM’s 2025 Annual Report is now available, showcasing a year of continued growth, innovation, and collaboration across Ontario’s broader public sector. Explore highlights including Our People, OECM’s Strategic Vision, and key business achievements—while looking ahead to what’s next in 2026.
OECM Achieves $6 Billion in Life-to-Date Collaborative Spend Ahead of 20th Anniversary Milestone
Ahead of its 20th anniversary, OECM has surpassed $6 billion in life-to-date collaborative spend, reflecting the strength of its sourcing model and the trust of customers and supplier partners across Ontario’s broader public sector.
Top 5 Procurement Trends Shaping Public Procurement Right Now
Looking for insights on navigating a more complex buying environment? OECM’s Director of Strategic Sourcing, Perry Arzumanian, shares five of the most important trends shaping procurement right now – and what they mean for public sector procurement professionals.
Latest Agreements Awarded
Since our last issue of the OECM Connection, we’ve expanded our Marketplace with a range of new and re-tendered agreements—enhancing access to qualified suppliers, high-quality products, and tailored solutions for the public sector. This includes three newly re-tendered Digital Learning Tools agreements, developed in consultation with Ontario’s Ministry of Education (MEDU) and District School Boards across the province, designed to support digital learning and student success for learners from Kindergarten through Grade 12 across Ontario.
Upcoming Agreements
Explore our upcoming agreements currently in development and discover opportunities to get involved. By participating as a Project Advisor or Evaluator, you can help shape the sourcing process, contribute your expertise, and support the creation of high-value, sector-aligned agreements.
Corporate Updates
Share your story with OECM
Share your OECM story and be part of our 20-year milestone—submit your testimonial, photos, or video today.
OECM’s alignment with Buy Ontario and Municipal Buy Ontario Procurement Directives
The Government of Ontario has introduced new procurement requirements under the Buy Ontario Act (Public Sector Procurement), 2025 including the Buy Ontario Procurement Directive and the Municipal Buy Ontario Procurement Directive. Learn what the directives mean to you as an OECM customer.
OECM featured in the Canadian Collaboration for Sustainable Procurement 2025 Annual Report, The State of Sustainable Public Procurement
OECM is proud to be featured in the Canadian Collaboration for Sustainable Procurement’s 2025 Annual Report, The State of Sustainable Public Procurement in Canada. The report highlights sustainable procurement trends, member accomplishments, and success stories from across Canada. We invite you to check out OECM’s feature on page 25 to learn more about how we continue to support collaborative and sustainable procurement initiatives across the broader public sector.
OECM Upcoming Transition to a New Electronic Tendering Platform
OECM is transitioning to Euna Procurement to modernize sourcing and strengthen procurement outcomes.
Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) Updates
Driving Value through Strong Partnerships: Inside OECM’s Supplier Relationship Management Team
Following Procurement Month and our focus on Strategic Sourcing, we’re spotlighting OECM’s Supplier Relationship Management Team – the group responsible for ensuring supplier performance, strengthening partnerships, and delivering ongoing value across the Marketplace.
OECM’s Supplier Partner Council Welcomes Bill Crumm
OECM welcomes Bill Crumm, Director, Indirect Tax – Public Sector at Deloitte, to its Supplier Partner Council (SPC), effective April 2026. With over 20 years of experience in higher education and public sector finance, Bill brings a strong understanding of institutional tax environments and procurement considerations.
Educational Tour: OECM Visits Wintergreen Learning Materials
A closer look at Wintergreen’s history, operations, showroom, and special education solutions.
Events & Community
OECM Celebrates National Procurement Month and 20 Years of Procurement Excellence and Collaboration
“National Procurement Month is an opportunity to recognize the people, expertise, and collaboration that drive procurement forward,” said Jim Hadjiyianni, OECM’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “As we celebrate both National Procurement Month and OECM’s 20th anniversary, we are proud to honour the collective impact of our customers, supplier partners, and cross-functional teams who work together to advance transparent, strategic, and value-driven procurement that support stronger public sector outcomes.”
Events and Conferences
We started this year by attending several networking events across municipal services, education, and the broader public sector. This included participation in National Procurement Month activities, municipal speaking engagements, and information sessions on re-tendered agreements such as Digital Learning Tools. These events focused on key topics such as procurement practices and policy development, digital tools and transformation, and leadership development!
Social Media
Follow us on our LinkedIn account for the latest news on OECM offerings available through our Marketplace, upcoming sourcing projects, sector events, and more. Learn more about the process improvements and efficiencies that bring value to our customers and drive procurement excellence through our value-added postings. Be sure to follow OECM’s President and CEO, Jim Hadjiyianni, on LinkedIn.
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