Challenges in Procurement within FMCG
The world of procurement is rapidly evolving, especially within the FMCG industry. Employers seek top talent to fill roles like Procurement/Purchasing/Category Officers, Analysts, Specialists, and Managers alongside Chief Procurement Officers, Heads of Procurement, and Procurement General Managers with the experience and skills to navigate this complex landscape.
Read below to find out the top four challenges procurement professionals are facing in 2024 and what experience you should highlight when applying for new procurement opportunities to give you a competitive edge.
1. Navigating Supply Chain Disruptions
As a specialist recruitment consultant within FMCG procurement, one of the biggest challenges raised by our partners is the need for talent that can navigate and manage an increasingly complex and dynamic global supply chain. With the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, political instability, and economic uncertainty, companies are still facing unprecedented disruptions to their supply chains. This means that procurement professionals need to be agile, adaptable, and able to think strategically in order to manage these challenges and keep their businesses running smoothly.
2. Keeping up with the Latest Technology
Another major challenge for FMCG procurement professionals is the need to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to new technologies and trends. From automation and artificial intelligence to blockchain and the Internet of Things, there is a wide range of new technologies that are transforming the way we do business. Procurement professionals need to be able to understand and leverage these technologies to remain competitive and drive innovation within their organisations.
3. Reducing Environmental Impact
As the world is becoming more aware of the impact of environmental issues, sustainability is also becoming an essential topic within FMCG procurement. Companies are under pressure to reduce their environmental footprint and ensure that their products are sustainable. This means that procurement professionals must be able to identify and select suppliers who align with the company’s sustainability goals. Furthermore, as consumers are becoming more conscious about their impact on the environment, companies need to be able to communicate their sustainability efforts and strategies effectively to attract and retain customers.
4. Regulatory Compliance
In addition to these challenges, procurement professionals must also be able to navigate an increasingly complex and dynamic regulatory environment. As governments worldwide implement new laws and regulations to promote fair trade, protect the environment, and ensure consumer safety, procurement professionals must understand and comply with these rules to avoid costly penalties and reputational damage.
Overall, the FMCG procurement landscape is becoming increasingly complex and challenging. To succeed in this field, organisations are looking for talent who possess a strong combination of technical skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability. They should also be able to navigate and manage an increasingly complex global supply chain, stay ahead of the curve when it comes to new technologies and trends, and navigate an increasingly intricate and dynamic regulatory environment.
Reach out below if…
… you would like to speak about your next role in FMCG procurement
… you are looking to grow your Procurement team in 2024 (We hire for temporary and permanent roles)
… you are a specialist procurement recruitment consultant and want to work with our cutting-edge agency (MEL, SYD or BNE).
Patrick Rybicki
Consultant – Supply Chain, Manufacturing & Procurement
E – patrickr@millerleith.com.au
P – 0421 729 935