If there’s one thing we’ve seen across our conversations with supply chain and procurement professionals this year, it’s this: the role is evolving faster than ever. Businesses are redesigning supplier networks, embracing AI-powered tools, and rethinking their approach to risk, cost, and sustainability.
At the same time, they’re asking us: “What kind of talent do we need to lead this transformation?” And from candidates, we’re hearing: “Where can I make a real strategic impact?”
As a specialist agency, we’re seeing the market shift in real-time. Here’s what mid-to-senior professionals, and the businesses that rely on them, need to understand right now.
- Geopolitical Tension = Strategic Sourcing Pressure
Procurement and supply chain functions are squarely in the spotlight when it comes to critical materials and geopolitical risk. The U.S., Australia, India, and Japan are now openly discussing joint supply chain strategies to reduce reliance on China, especially for rare earths and battery minerals.
The knock-on effect? Companies are urgently reviewing sourcing models, while candidates with experience in multi-region sourcing, trade compliance, and supply chain risk are in higher demand than ever.
What we’re advising clients & candidates:
- Hiring teams: Look for talent with proven agility across different sourcing geographies.
- Professionals: If you’ve worked on risk mapping or alternative sourcing projects, highlight it, it’s gold right now.
- Tariffs, Cyber Threats & Trade Volatility Are Shaping Job Specs
New trade policies, unpredictable tariffs, and growing cybersecurity threats are pushing procurement teams into more cross-functional territory. The most in-demand professionals are no longer just cost-focused, they’re also strong communicators, commercially savvy, and tech-aware.
A recent survey found 90% of U.S. businesses are concerned about tariff-related disruption, and nearly 70% cite cyber risks as a growing concern. Many are investing in scenario modeling and tech solutions, but talent is a crucial part of that solution.
What we’re seeing:
- Roles are shifting: From tactical buyers to procurement business partners and risk-focused supply chain leads.
- Skills gap alert: There’s growing need for people who understand AI tools, data analysis, and integrated planning.
- Candidate tip: Now’s a great time to upskill in supply chain tech or data tools, it’s a differentiator.
- AI & Automation Are Reshaping Procurement Functions
We’re seeing a wave of new tech tools actually make their way into daily procurement operations, not just sitting on a roadmap. Whether it’s should-cost modelling, supplier visibility platforms, or contract lifecycle automation, companies are building leaner, more intelligent procurement teams.
But here’s the catch: not every business has the internal capability to adopt this tech and not every candidate knows how to lead that change.
What we’re advising:
- Hiring managers: Think about not just the tools, but the people who can drive adoption. Hiring for mindset is key.
- Candidates: If you’ve helped roll out any procurement tech, even partial automation or process redesign, show it off.
- Resilience Means Redundancy, Security & Smarter Design
From cyberattacks to climate shocks, the pressure is on to design supply chains that bend without breaking. More companies are rethinking supplier scorecards, nearshoring production, and prioritising cyber resilience and they need people who can lead that charge.
Gartner predicts nearly half of all businesses will face a supply chain-related cyber breach by the end of the year. And resilience now includes data security, ESG compliance, and multi-tier visibility, not just keeping inventory in stock.
From a recruitment lens:
- New roles emerging: Supplier risk analysts, ESG supply chain leads, digital supply chain consultants.
- What candidates need: Broader thinking, cross-functional collaboration skills, and a resilience mindset.
At Procurement People, we believe procurement and supply chain leaders are entering a golden era, but only if they’re ready to evolve. The best teams aren’t just buying smarter they’re building the future of how businesses operate. And the best professionals aren’t just executing tasks, they’re shaping strategy.
If you’re planning your next hire or next career move in this space, we’d love to help.
Get in touch with Will Terry at will.terry@procurement-people.com or call on 0121 450 5000.
