While the past two years showed procurement and supply chain professionals that disruption can appear fast and without warning, 2022 has so far been one heavy on planning and preparedness as companies begin to build back.

The majority of companies are investing big in technology. At least that's what the 2021 PwC’s 24th annual CEO survey  reported: 4,446 CEOs from 89 countries and territories responded that more than half of them will increase their digital investment by 10% or more in the next year – the biggest spending increase than any other category.

Bringing sustainability to procurement is one of the most important priorities for most companies and has been a popular topic around supply chain leaders, especially when it comes to identifying how to start and where to apply good sustainable procurement practices that will bring results and be maintained as time goes by.

Data has become one of the most valuable assets a company can have. And when it comes to procurement, having reliable, accurate and up-to-date data is the key to carrying out successful strategic work that will bring the company the best deals and savings.

Looking under the bonnet of a business and analysing where growth and increased margins can be achieved is what drives Richard Cotter, former CEO of Snow + Rock and entrepreneur.

Times have changed, and purchasing preferences have changed with it. Buying from a company that takes supply-chain sustainability seriously is now one of the most important criteria for consumers – and companies now need to adapt to help shape a better future.

A recent report conducted by Accenture among supply chain leaders revealed that when it comes to being advanced in terms of technology, talent and processes, only 4% of organisations meet this level – and only 34% are expected to reach the future-ready status by the end of 2023.

Emerging technologies consistently present new opportunities for Procurement to adapt for their own working practices – especially when it comes to helping improve processes, increase traceability, reduce costs and automate laborious activities. 

To become an expert at bomb disposal you need to understand the bomb maker’s mind.   So says Major Chris Hunter who encountered some of the most challenging life and death situations, during tours of Iraq and Iran.