Procurement is no longer confined to back-office operations. As global disruption reshapes trade, it has become a core driver of resilience, risk management and long-term competitiveness.
This shift is reflected in a new campaign by Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply, aimed at attracting young talent and strengthening procurement capability across the region.
From transactional role to strategic driver
Procurement was once focused on purchasing and cost negotiation. Today, its role has expanded significantly.
According to Paul Vos, procurement now sits at the centre of business continuity.
It involves managing supply risk, ensuring consistent access to goods, strengthening supplier networks and navigating global uncertainty. These responsibilities place procurement at the heart of decision-making across industries.
Global disruption reshaping supply chains
Recent global events have exposed the fragility of supply chains.
The Strait of Hormuz carries around 20% of global seaborne oil, making disruptions in the region a major concern for energy supply. Shipping delays and rerouting have already affected hundreds of vessels.
At the same time, the Suez Canal and Red Sea corridor handle a significant share of global trade. Disruptions here have forced ships to reroute around the Cape of Good Hope, adding time and cost to supply chains.
These pressures are increasing freight costs and extending delivery timelines for businesses worldwide.
Local challenges add further pressure
In South Africa, global disruption is compounded by domestic constraints.
Port congestion, rail inefficiencies and infrastructure limitations continue to affect the movement of goods. Export-driven sectors such as mining, manufacturing and agriculture are particularly exposed.
Procurement teams must now manage both international volatility and local logistics challenges, often requiring alternative sourcing strategies and more agile supplier networks.
Economic impact spreads across sectors
The effects of supply chain disruption extend beyond logistics.
According to S&P Global Ratings, geopolitical tensions are beginning to affect credit markets across multiple sectors.
Commodity prices are also shifting. Inputs such as sulphur, used in fertilisers, chemicals and manufacturing, have seen notable price increases, impacting thousands of businesses globally.
Rising demand for procurement skills
As complexity increases, so does the need for skilled procurement professionals.
The global talent shortage highlighted in the CIPS Procurement & Supply Salary Guide 2025 reflects growing demand for expertise in supplier risk, sustainability and supply chain resilience.
Businesses are recognising that procurement capability directly influences operational stability and long-term performance.
A shift in how businesses compete
The launch of the “Excellence That Moves the World” campaign signals a broader change in how procurement is viewed.
Strong procurement functions now support resilience, improve efficiency and help organisations adapt to uncertainty.
In this environment, procurement is no longer a support function. It is a strategic capability shaping how businesses operate, compete and grow.
