Leadership in procurement is no longer about simply managing supply chains or securing cost savings. It’s about driving innovation, creating resilient supply chains, and inspiring teams to achieve greater goals. Procurement leaders who make an impact do so by combining emotional intelligence, strategic thinking, and an ability to engage stakeholders effectively. This article highlights some of the most inspiring procurement leaders in recent years and the lessons their achievements can teach us about leadership.
Real-World Procurement Leaders Making a Difference
Dirk Van de Put, Mondelez International
As CEO and a driving force in Mondelez’s procurement transformation, Dirk led the company’s shift towards sustainable sourcing. His leadership saw Mondelez commit to sourcing 100% of its cocoa sustainably through its Cocoa Life program, reducing the environmental impact of its supply chain while enhancing its brand reputation.
Leaders who prioritise sustainability can create value beyond cost savings, fostering brand loyalty and aligning their companies with global environmental goals.
Angelica Gutierrez, Former Global Procurement VP, Nike
Angelica spearheaded Nike’s shift to digital procurement platforms, allowing the brand to streamline its sourcing processes and respond rapidly to supply chain disruptions. By implementing predictive analytics, her team ensured Nike maintained its supply chain agility during global crises like COVID-19.
Investing in technology and building digital resilience in procurement not only mitigates risks but also prepares organisations for future challenges.
Gianpiero Lenza, Unilever Procurement
Gianpiero was instrumental in integrating supplier partnerships into Unilever’s sustainability agenda. He worked closely with suppliers to reduce packaging waste, implementing a circular economy model that allowed Unilever to save millions in production costs while meeting its environmental commitments.
Strong stakeholder relationships can help procurement leaders align with corporate sustainability goals and achieve cost efficiencies simultaneously.
What Makes a Great Procurement Leader?
These inspiring examples highlight key traits that successful procurement leaders share:
Visionary Thinking: The ability to see beyond immediate goals and position procurement as a strategic driver of business success.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: Building strong relationships with teams, stakeholders, and suppliers is critical for gaining buy-in and navigating challenges effectively.
Adaptability: In a rapidly changing global landscape, procurement leaders need to stay ahead of the curve by leveraging technology and innovation.
Steps to Build Your Leadership Skills
If you’re aspiring to follow in the footsteps of these industry leaders, here are actionable steps to enhance your procurement leadership skills:
Learn from the Best
Follow the work of procurement trailblazers, attend industry conferences, and engage with thought leaders through webinars and forums. The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) is an excellent resource for industry insights.
Invest in Strategic Thinking
Develop your ability to align procurement activities with organisational goals by pursuing advanced certifications such as CIPS Level 6 or taking courses on strategic sourcing and supply chain management.
Engage with Stakeholders
Schedule regular meetings with internal and external stakeholders to understand their goals and align procurement strategies accordingly. Strong communication is the backbone of effective stakeholder engagement.
Stay Ahead of Technology Familiarise yourself with procurement technologies like Coupa or SAP Ariba. These tools can improve operational efficiency and demonstrate your tech-savviness to leadership teams.
Langley Search and Interim: Your Partner in Procurement Leadership
If you’re looking to elevate your career in procurement, Langley Search and Interim is here to help. As a leading procurement recruitment agency in the UK, we connect talented professionals with opportunities that enable them to make an impact. Whether you’re looking to take on leadership roles or hone your skills, Langley offers unparalleled support in shaping your career.