In this episode of Procurement Reimagined, we speak with Karthik Rama, CEO and Principal Consultant at Procurement Doctors to discuss the evolution of procurement practices, common mistakes made by professionals, and the importance of mentorship. Karthik shares personal experiences, lessons learned from failures, and insights into the current landscape of procurement, emphasizing the need for a balance between traditional skills and technological advancements. The conversation also highlights the significance of human connection in procurement and concludes with recommendations for thought leaders in the field. Takeaways

• The biggest mistake in procurement can be viewing it as a data entry job.
• Understanding the broader context of procurement can enhance effectiveness.
• Siloed thinking in procurement can lead to project failures.
• Due diligence is crucial in consulting and procurement projects.
• A balance between technology and traditional procurement skills is essential.
• Emotional intelligence is a key skill for procurement professionals.
• Growing in breadth of knowledge is more important than job hopping.
• Mentorship can significantly impact career development in procurement.
• Networking and human connection are vital in the procurement field.
• Learning from failures can lead to better procurement strategies.