Are strategic minds more valuable than ever in procurement teams?

We often hear the term “strategic” being used by candidates, but in the real world many still take a “tick the box” process compliance approach to procurement. The ability to form a well-thought out strategy and stick to it rather than racing headlong into a sourcing project is seen as an important part of the job for many employers. It requires understanding of cost and value driver opportunities across the supply chain and facilitating cross-functional groups to develop innovative and effective category strategies that factor in risk to the business. Employers continue to search for candidates with strategic credentials but is this more thoughtful approach being applied in your procurement team?