AI & ML
not a reaction. And engage your strategic suppliers – they’ re often your best source of market insights and industry benchmarks.”
Future-proofing procurement talent Perhaps the most significant challenge facing procurement leaders is preparing their teams for dramatic functional changes expected over the next five years. Natasha identifies several essential capabilities for future success.“ Critical thinking, data fluency and tech-savviness are essential. Traditional sourcing skills won’ t be enough. You need to interpret data, build AI prompts, hold strategic conversations and challenge the status quo. Above all, stay curious. The best professionals are constant learners,” she explains.
For leaders struggling with technological changes, particularly those from generations that didn’ t grow up with digital tools, Natasha offers both empathy and a challenge:“ If tech intimidates you, lean into it. Many Gen X leaders who didn’ t grow up with devices in their hands will have to learn how to build AI agents just to stay competitive. I’ m going through it myself. It’ s a leap all right, but it’ s the only way to stay relevant.”
Looking ahead, Natasha envisions procurement’ s expanding influence across organisational functions, with implications for both talent development and team structure.
“ I look forward to the day when procurement isn’ t just about savings but about revenue impact.
That evolution will embed procurement deeper into product, finance, legal and yes, even marketing,” she says.
As procurement becomes more integrated with other business functions, Natasha believes different skills will become increasingly important:“ As teams grow more cross-functional and commercially aware, the focus will shift to influence, storytelling and
88 June 2025