I am Paulo Ricardo Coelho Ribeiro, a procurement specialist, and in this article, I want to share with you what I have learned throughout my professional journey. Have you ever stopped to think about the importance of a procurement specialist in a company’s success? This professional is much more than someone who negotiates prices—they are responsible for connecting strategy and operations, ensuring the company runs efficiently and profitably while mitigating losses.
In the business world, procurement is one of the most strategic pillars. After all, acquiring products or services in the right quality and quantity at the lowest possible cost directly impacts competitiveness and profits. Let’s explore the main responsibilities of this professional and how you can become a specialist in the field.
But, after all, what does a procurement specialist do?
The role of this professional goes far beyond closing contracts or negotiating with suppliers. It is an area that requires analysis, strategy, and market insight. Here are the main responsibilities:
– Identification of internal needs: before purchasing anything, it’s necessary to understand what the company truly needs. This involves aligning with internal departments and forecasting future demands.
– Supplier research and selection: choosing the right suppliers means evaluating not just prices but also quality, delivery times, market reputation, and contractual terms.
– Contract negotiation: knowing how to negotiate is one of the most important skills. A good specialist seeks advantageous agreements that serve the company’s interests and foster long-term partnerships.
– Cost management: beyond reducing expenses, the procurement specialist works to optimize resource use, ensuring every penny invested brings returns.
– Market monitoring and analysis: staying attentive to market trends and price behavior is crucial. This allows for quick and accurate decisions during crises or opportunities.
– Sustainability in procurement: today, environmental responsibility is also part of the job. Many companies seek suppliers who follow sustainable practices, and it’s up to the specialist to incorporate this into procurement strategy.
Why is this professional so important?
Imagine a company that purchases low-quality materials or lacks control over its contracts. This can lead to problems like delays, increased costs, and even loss of clients. A procurement specialist prevents these scenarios by ensuring everything is under control, acting as a bridge between business strategy and daily execution.
If you’re interested in this profession, here are some practical tips to start your journey:
– Invest in technical knowledge: courses in administration, logistics, or economics are an excellent foundation. Additionally, specializations in areas like supply chain and procurement are increasingly valued.
– Develop negotiation skills: negotiation is an art. Practice, study techniques, and always be prepared to present strong arguments.
– Work on your analytical skills: handling data is an essential part of the job. Familiarize yourself with management tools like ERPs and procurement software, and develop the ability to interpret reports.
– Stay updated: the market is dynamic, and what’s trending today may not be tomorrow. Attend events, read about the industry, and exchange experiences with other professionals.
If you’re looking for a strategic, dynamic, and essential profession in the business world—one that AI (artificial intelligence) is unlikely to replace—procurement may be the right choice. And remember: the path to becoming a specialist begins with a first step.
