You can stand out as a procurement manager by being an astute Systems Thinker. The science of Systems Thinking mandates that organizations are made up of individuals parts that work together as a whole.
Business Systems are made up of processes, people, skill sets, layouts, equipment, raw materials, information, and culture. Problems often arise from the interaction of these complexed parts which affect a procurement manager’s most sensitive performance measure, the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).
With the above considerations, a procurement manager must possess the following characteristics to be a procurement superstar:
With the above considerations, a procurement manager must possess the following characteristics to be a procurement superstar:
1. Ability to lead the Procurement Function with Vision and Purpose that is aligned to the strategic objectives of your organization.
2. Ensure that your team of procurement professionals are aligned with the articulated vision and are the right fit.
3. Ensure that your team has the right skills to manage spend, and support operations.
4. Ensure that your team members have the right technology, processes, and appropriate metrics are in place to measure the success of their departments.
5. Ensure that there is full accountability from direct reports and suppliers and influence the same amongst key stakeholder groups.
6. Ensure that Managerial Excellence is in place with a robust Spend and Savings Strategy
7. Ensure a culture of TCO understanding and excellence is the order of the day.
8. Master a major Scientific Problem-Solving Methodology, such as the DMAIC Model (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) or PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act). Utilizing this talent to improve the procurement process and interactions with suppliers, internal and external customers is key.
9. Master the Science of Environmental Scanning. This entails understanding and influencing the socio-demographic, economic, market, technological, competitive, political, industry and ecological factors that impact the supply chain of your organizations.
10. Commit to Lifelong Learning and Continuous Improvement and influence a culture of the same from associates. Know your stuff!
11. Be a Cross Functional Mentor.
12. Become an Expert in understanding your Customer Requirements, as this will enhance your ability to make great procurement decisions and improve your organization’s value creation processes.
13. Reducing Supply Chain Risk by leveraging supply chain Risk Management methodologies such FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis) to understand, prioritize and improve existing risk, social responsibility and sustainability factors.
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