With advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation transforming industries, procurement professionals are frequently facing a pressing question: will AI make their roles obsolete? The short answer is no. While AI is revolutionising procurement with tools that enhance efficiency and provide valuable insights, the industry remains deeply rooted in people-centric processes and relationships.
The ‘P’ in procurement is people
Procurement thrives on human relationships. Negotiating contracts, managing supplier relationships, and collaborating with stakeholders require empathy, trust, and communication- skills that technology cannot replicate. As Karen Mansell, CEO of Accelerate, a leading procurement consultancy, aptly puts it: “The ‘P’ in procurement is people.”
Procurement professionals excel at forging relationships, resolving conflicts, and navigating complex negotiations- tasks where human nuance is indispensable. AI may streamline data analysis or automate routine tasks, but it cannot replace the personal connections that underpin successful procurement strategies.
The importance of softer skills
Empathy, curiosity, and relationship-building are key attributes for procurement professionals. Karen Mansell is a strong believer in this, stating: “When it comes to the type of person who is ideally suited to working in the procurement sector, I think softer skills really play in.”
According to Karen, curiosity, in particular, is a vital trait: “I think the number one thing for a great procurement person has got to be curiosity. You need to ask why and ask how. You’ve got to challenge some of that status quo because that’s what makes procurement really interesting.”
AI might provide insights, but it’s human curiosity that asks the right questions and applies these insights in meaningful ways.
How AI complements procurement
Rather than replacing procurement teams, AI acts as a powerful tool to enhance their capabilities. Advanced analytics, machine learning, and predictive tools enable teams to optimise costs, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
Karen summarises it well: “AI won’t replace people, but people not using AI will get replaced by people who can.” Adopting AI in procurement isn’t about replacing human roles but empowering professionals with tools to work smarter and deliver greater value.
Maintaining the human touch
As procurement evolves, professionals must adapt to new tools while maintaining the human touch that sets them apart. According to Karen Mansell – “If you look at how technology is driving us, we’ve all got to be more conversant with some of those skills and how you use them, but in a way that is still human as well.”
The future of procurement
AI and automation will undoubtedly reshape procurement, but the core of the profession remains unchanged. Karen sums this up perfectly: “My fundamental belief is that AI, and automation, won’t replace all of the procurement jobs – it just won’t, because procurement is still fundamentally a people business.”
The future lies in a harmonious blend of technology and human expertise, with AI handling routine tasks and data-heavy processes while people focus on strategy, creativity, and relationships. By embracing this balance, procurement teams can remain indispensable in a rapidly changing world.
To find out more about Accelerate Procurement and it’s CEO Karen Mansell, visit https://accelerateprocurement.com/