Beyond Traditional Procurement Roles: Exploring Career Opportunities for Procurement Experts

After years of dedication to a specific sector or industry, many professionals often feel stuck, convinced it's too late for a career change and resigned to their current roles indefinitely. Indeed, out of the 39% of European workers who considered changing jobs in 2022, only 19% actually switched jobs or sectors in the past year. This indicates a notable gap between the desire to change careers and the reality of making that change ( McKinsey & Company).

Yet, the perception of having no options couldn't be further from the truth. The wealth of experience gained over the years doesn’t limit career options; it broadens them. Expertise can be the key to unlocking new opportunities and exploring different career paths that might never have been considered.

In procurement, the career landscape extends far beyond traditional corporate roles. While expertise in procurement is invaluable within organizations, many overlook the diverse career paths available. This evolving field offers numerous opportunities for growth and specialization, driven by advancements in technology, the increasing importance of sustainability, and the global nature of supply chains. As procurement evolves, so too do the career options available, offering professionals the chance to explore roles that leverage their skills in new and impactful ways. From consulting to roles in the growing procuretech sector, the options are expansive and dynamic, providing exciting avenues for those looking to diversify their career trajectories.

Consulting : Procurement experts are increasingly sought after as consultants, where they can leverage their deep industry knowledge to advise companies on optimizing their supply chains, reducing costs, and implementing sustainable practices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for management analysts, including procurement consultants, is projected to grow 14% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This role offers the opportunity to work with diverse clients across various industries, providing tailored solutions to complex procurement challenges.

Procuretech Sector : A relatively new and rapidly growing alternative is the procuretech sector, which focuses on integrating advanced technologies such as AI, machine learning, data analytics, and blockchain into procurement processes. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global procurement software market size was valued at USD 5.5 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.1% from 2021 to 2028. This field includes the development of software and platforms that streamline procurement activities, from sourcing and contract management to analytics and supplier relationship management. Procurement experts can find roles in these startups as product managers, implementation specialists, or even strategic advisors, helping to shape innovative solutions that transform the industry.

Academic and Training Sectors : Another option is to enter the academic or training sectors, where procurement professionals can share their knowledge as educators or corporate trainers. This path allows for the development of curricula and training programs that equip the next generation of procurement professionals with essential skills and knowledge.

Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing : As sustainability becomes a critical concern, procurement professionals with a focus on ethical sourcing and sustainable supply chains are in demand. Roles in CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) departments or sustainability consulting firms allow procurement experts to influence company policies and practices, ensuring they align with environmental and social governance (ESG) standards. A report by the World Economic Forum highlights that companies integrating sustainability into their procurement processes can achieve cost savings of up to 30%, demonstrating the tangible benefits of this expertise.

If the procuretech sector interests you, Soource is looking for a dynamic procurement expert eager to enter this innovative field. Our mission at Soource is to establish ourselves as the most comprehensive B2B company database globally for supplier sourcing, synonymous with excellence and reliability. We aim to create a dynamic model that empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of global demand and supply seamlessly, reducing waste, minimizing overproduction, and fostering an economically efficient and sustainable future.

Interested candidates are encouraged to send their CVs to hello@soource.com . For more information about our company and mission, please visit Soource. Join the team and build the future of procurement with us!