Formerly called a buying office in an organisation, the procurement and supplies function is a unniversal partner in the business . Making sure the company gets the best price,
monitoring delivery of products and services so that the organisation can utilise them for the intended purpose, is their role. The supply chain has been topical for many organisations and it’s no wonder that the procurement system was one of the earliest beneficiaries of the blockchain technology with smart contracts. It has enabled stakeholders in the supply chain to quickly conclude transactions and have visibility of the stage at which the items they have purchased are in the chain in real time.

Procurement and supplies function remind me of myself as a lawyer as they insist on rules of engagement having to be followed by contractors and the organisation. Further, their role entails that they provide input and advice on the best procurement methods, ensuring transparency in selection of bidders, risk mitigation (such as insurance cover) and facilitating contract management.

This breed of actors can also be recipients of complaints from internal users if items are procured and delivered late or not delivered at all, and often have to effectively engage with suppliers/ contractors to diffuse such volatility. This means that there can be high levels of anxiety which impact other things in the line such as performance of contracts.

The procurement and supplies function is characterized by a “busy” and “ready” attitude towards delivery. Appreciating their work and the hoops they have to go through, makes me believe that they should be very good managers of stakeholder relationships.

To the Procurement and Supplies Department, I heard your knock and please come into my house of thoughts … you are most welcome !