Christophe stresses that procurement teams must understand the exact operational changes, capabilities and costs required by the supplier, as well as“ what value it will ultimately create, for both sides.”

“ This shift from auditor to coach means we can’ t operate at arm’ s length anymore,” he says.“ We have to engage deeply, co-create solutions and be willing to go the distance with our suppliers. It’ s about treating them as partners, not just vendors, guiding them through transformation rather than simply issuing requirements and waiting for compliance. Ultimately, this is what defines modern procurement: strategic supplier management that drives joint value creation, not just transactional outcomes.”

26 August 2026