A veteran supply chain expert advises ambitious young practitioners embarking on their first procurement or supply chain jobs that if they aim to become future CPOs or Heads of Supply Chain, they must show that they are ‘next level’ talent.
Tom Derry, CEO of the US Institute of Supply Chain Management, explains there are a small but essential number of critical success factors that have propelled the best to the top of their profession. He highlights three for aspiring young talent to begin practising early in their careers:
- Identify the best talent in the business and look and learn
Newcomers to supply chain and procurement jobs would do well to discover who has the best reputation and leadership abilities – the people who are seen as leading the success of a great organisation. A company’s reputation will be crucial. Derry says: “It’s clear that certain companies have created an awful lot of talent in our profession, disproportionately more talent to other companies. So find those great leaders, at those great companies and that’s going to be a launching pad for you.”
- Be brave
Derry advises young professionals to link what they do in their day-to-day work with whatever is building value for the firm. It could be bringing new products online, or building new features into existing products – anything that drives top revenue growth or enhances earnings per share through effective cost reduction. Procurement and supply chain juniors who can speak the language of the business and adopt strategies that drive outcomes like these will stand out from the crowd and earn respect.
- Be competitive
Businesses succeed by being competitive, not only with commercial rivals but in their own departments. Those who gain the most resources, which can include knowledge and effectiveness, win opportunities for promotion and advancement. Superiors are watching young practitioners for their output and productivity, who will be rewarded if they stand out.
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