How CPOs at Nestle, IBM, Radisson Hotels and DPDHL are keeping their seat at the decision-making table

The value of procurement is finally being realised and Chief Procurement Officers who were once viewed merely as cost-cutters are now valued members of the C-suite. However, some CPOs are still working hard to demonstrate their value. While many already have a seat at the decision-making table, some are having to build the table themselves. 

In 2023’s ProcureCon Playbook, we gathered insights from procurement leaders to better understand how their role has changed, how they continue to demonstrate value to their organisation - and keep the seat that they worked so hard to get.

To find out why procurement is now seen as a critical decision-maker in many organisations, download the ProcureCon Europe agenda now.

Below, we hear from procurement leaders from Nestlé, IBM, DPDHL and Radisson Hotels about their experiences and insights into the ever-evolving CPO role.

How has your role changed over the last three years?

CPOs are demonstrating value to their organisations by providing reports and statistics in strategy formation. Creating a clear line of communication with the C-suite and aligning internal procurement goals with the organisation’s overall strategy is essential. By achieving this, and displaying internally how procurement is actively supporting strategy, the value that procurement can bring will be clearer.

Is procurement being seen as a strategic decision-maker in your organisation?

For many CPOs, their role has been elevated within their organisation. However, our survey has highlighted that for 41%, improvements need to be made for procurement to be seen as a strategic decision-maker. This suggests that there is still more work to be done for some organisations to catch up with their C-level peers.

How are you demonstrating the value that procurement can bring to your organisation?

With post-pandemic complexities, an energy crisis, and geo-political tensions causing delays to the supply chain, CPOs must continue to provide strategic support to their organisations.

It is true that procurement is beginning to play a larger role in many organisation's operations, with 39% of our respondents stating that procurement is seen as a strategic decision-maker and is already a member of the C-suite in their organisation. However, for some, there is still a way to go until procurement is given serious status within their organisations, meaning there is still work to be done.

Want the full picture? Download 2023's ProcureCon Europe Playbook.