From Rookie to Leader: My Procurement Lessons Along the Way

I still remember my first day in procurement excited yet completely unprepared for what lay ahead. I thought procurement was all about getting the best price, but reality quickly set in.

One of my earliest tasks was negotiating with a supplier. Armed with confidence and theory, I pushed hard for a lower price. The supplier smiled and said, “I can give you that price, but for a lower product standard and you’ll handle delivery. Are you sure that’s what you want?”

I wasn’t. That moment taught me that procurement isn’t just about price, it’s about value, reliability, and long-term strategy.

I made mistakes, choosing the wrong suppliers, managing contracts poorly, but each one shaped me. A major shift came when a mentor told me, “Suppliers aren’t just vendors; they’re partners.”

That mindset transformed my approach. Instead of just negotiating, I started collaborating, understanding supplier challenges, and working to improve relationships. The results? Better deals, fewer delays and more trust.

Moving into leadership meant shifting from doing procurement to guiding others. I remember coaching a frustrated junior colleague through a failed negotiation. Instead of giving answers, I asked, “What would you do differently?” Seeing them realize their own mistakes reminded me of my own journey.

Lessons Learned:

●     Procurement is about value, not just cost.

●     Relationships matter, treat suppliers as allies.

●     Mistakes are part of growth, learn and adapt.

●     Leadership is about empowering others.

Remember that procurement isn’t just about contracts; it’s about people, strategy and continuous learning. Whether you’re just starting or leading a team, every challenge is an opportunity to grow. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned in procurement? Share your thoughts!

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