Sunket Dalvi

Worried about using Chat GPT for procurement? Many organizations are cautious about using AI Tools like Chat GPT & rightfully So. Functions like procurement where data confidentiality, supplier information and strategic decisions are involved AI when used responsibly, can be an enabler. As procurement leaders, what we can do is train our colleauges to ask better and smarter and safe questions. This will guide action and speed outcomes without compromising confidentiality. Let me give you 3 prompts, which you can use for             a) Supplier background & Financial analysis             b) Supplier discovery             c) Category Analysis Do let me know, whether you found them useful.If you have a better prompt, please do share with me as well. Thanks. Drop me a comment, if you need a copy of this in your message inbox.

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I have cracked it the hard way over last 2 decades, need for Digital Procurement Transformation and its steps to implement ? Before i deep dive, i want to share what is Digital Procurement transformation. It refers to the integration of advanced technologies into procurement processes, enabling organizations to automate tasks 360*, analyze data in real time, and make informed purchasing decisions. It includes the use of tools like e-procurement platforms, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and cloud-based procurement solutions etc. The rise of digital technologies has transformed procurement into a strategic function that drives efficiency, transparency, and cost savings. This shift, known as procurement digital transformation, is empowering organizations to streamline their procurement processes, reduce operational risks, and gain a competitive edge. Benefits of Procurement Digital Transformation ✅Improved Efficiency: Automation eliminates repetitive manual tasks, reducing errors and processing time. ✅Better Decision-Making: Real-time data and analytics provide insights for smarter sourcing strategies. ✅Cost Savings: Enhanced spend visibility helps identify cost-cutting opportunities. ✅Compliance and Risk Mitigation: Digital tools ensure adherence to procurement policies and supplier standards. ✅Sustainability and Transparency: Organizations can track environmental and ethical sourcing metrics more effectively. Steps to Implement Digital Transformation in Procurement ✅Assess Current Procurement Operations ✅Set Clear Transformation Goals ✅Choose the Right Digital Tools ✅Engage Stakeholders Across Departments ✅Leverage Procurement Management Services ✅Assign a Dedicated Procurement Project Manager ✅Train Staff and Monitor Progress Continuously Conclusion Procurement digital transformation is no longer optional; it’s a strategic necessity for organizations aiming to boost efficiency and reduce operational costs. By embracing innovative technologies, leveraging procurement professionals’ expertise, partnering with expert procurement management services, and ensuring strong procurement project management, businesses can future-proof their operations and drive significant value. The key to success lies in a clear roadmap, cross-functional collaboration, and a long-term vision aligned with digital innovation. A long journey that we have have created for contributing to procurement success. Innovation In Procurement - IPCS #innovationinprocurement #ipcs #procurement

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Lessons Learned from 18 Years in Procurement domain - 1. Relationships Matter More Than Transactions Building trust with suppliers and internal stakeholders is key to long-term success. Strategic partnerships yield more value than constant cost-cutting. 2. Negotiation Is an Art and Science Effective negotiation isn’t just about price — it's about value, risk sharing, and sustainability. Listening is often more powerful than speaking. 3. Change Is Constant — Be Adaptable From manual systems to digital platforms, adapting to technological transformation is non-negotiable. Embrace new tools like e-procurement, AI, and supplier risk platforms. 4. Compliance and Ethics Build Reputation Even under pressure, never compromise on ethics, compliance, or governance. Procurement plays a crucial role in brand reputation and regulatory adherence. 5. Data Is a Game Changer Accurate data drives better decisions. Over time, I’ve seen data literacy become a key skill. Procurement analytics and dashboards are no longer optional. 6. Cost Saving Isn’t Everything Total Cost of Ownership (TCO), supplier innovation, and risk mitigation are just as important. Shift from tactical sourcing to strategic procurement brings more enterprise value. 7. Stakeholder Engagement Drives Success Understand business needs deeply. Procurement must be a business enabler, not a gatekeeper. Influence without authority is a vital leadership skill. 8. Risk Management Is Critical Supply chain disruptions taught me the value of risk anticipation, dual sourcing, and business continuity planning. Supplier risk is both operational and reputational. 9. Sustainability and ESG Are the Future Sustainability is no longer a buzzword. It's a core procurement KPI. Aligning suppliers with ESG goals enhances corporate citizenship. 10. Team Development Multiplies Impact A strong procurement team with diverse skillsets creates resilience and innovation. Invest in mentoring, upskilling, and cross-functional exposure.

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From Procurement Managers leading operations, to Category & Vendor Managers shaping supplier strategies, to Analysts & Business Partners turning data into insights — every role plays a critical part in building a resilient and future-ready procurement function. At the top, the Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) aligns vision with business goals, ensuring procurement becomes a true growth enabler. 🌍✨ #Procurement #SupplyChain #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #StrategicSourcing #CategoryManagement #DataAnalytics #FutureOfWork #TransformationLeadership Image Credit Tanya W.

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🆅🅴🅽🅳🅾🆁 🅴🆅🅰🅻🆄🅰🆃🅸🅾🅽 🅱🅴🆈🅾🅽🅳 🅿🆁🅸🅲🅴 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄𝗰𝗮𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰𝘂𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 : 💡𝗩𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗿 𝗘𝘃𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗝𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗲 In today’s volatile business world, choosing the right vendor goes beyond the lowest quote. Here are key factors that strategic procurement leaders like us must prioritize:- ✅ 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 & 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 A cheaper price means nothing if the goods don’t arrive on time. Evaluate on-time delivery history and consistency. 📊 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 Low cost often hides high risk. Ensure vendors meet required quality standards, regulatory certifications, and audit requirements. 🌱 𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 & 𝗘𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 With ESG becoming a boardroom priority, vendors must follow ethical labor practices, green processes, and reduce carbon impact. 🤝 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗙𝗶𝘁 & 𝗖𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 A vendor that aligns with your organization's values and vision can lead to stronger partnerships and smoother collaboration. 🔄 𝗔𝗴𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 & 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 In dynamic markets, partner with vendors who adapt quickly, innovate continuously, and proactively suggest improvements. Let’s stop treating vendors like price tags and start valuing them as growth partners with more collaborative steps. 💬 How do you assess vendor value beyond pricing? #VendorManagement #ProcurementLeadership  #StrategicSourcing  #SupplyChainExcellence  #SmartProcurement  #Procurement2025 

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To achieve optimal pricing in foreign procurement, it is crucial to address key factors ensuring cost-effectiveness, transparency, and long-term value. Here’s a revamped version with a bit of flair: 1. **Market Research and Supplier Selection**: - Compare multiple suppliers on price, quality, and delivery terms. - Assess supplier credibility, financial stability, and reputation. - Use competitive bidding or Request for Proposals (RFPs). 2. **Currency Exchange Rates**: - Monitor currency fluctuations and negotiate in a favorable currency. - Use hedging strategies or forward contracts to minimize risks. 3. **Shipping and Logistics Costs**: - Account for freight charges, insurance, customs duties, and taxes. - Optimize shipping methods for efficiency and cost savings. - Partner with reliable logistics providers for better rates. 4. **Tariffs and Import Regulations**: - Understand tariffs, trade agreements, and import rules. - Consider duties or exemptions impacting total costs. 5. **Quantity and Bulk Discounts**: - Negotiate discounts for bulk purchases or long-term contracts. - Balance bulk buying with inventory holding costs. 6. **Payment Terms**: - Negotiate extended payment terms or early payment discounts. - Use secure international payment systems to reduce costs. 7. **Quality Assurance and Certification**: - Ensure goods meet required specifications to avoid rework. - Verify compliance with international standards and certifications. 8. **Lead Time and Delivery Performance**: - Account for lead times and potential delays when selecting suppliers. - Include penalties or incentives in contracts to ensure timely delivery. 9. **Hidden Costs**: - Identify hidden costs like storage fees, handling charges, or inspections. - Ensure transparency in pricing structures. 10. **Supplier Relationships**: - Build strong supplier relationships for better terms and priority services. - Maintain open communication to resolve issues quickly. 11. **Geopolitical and Economic Risks**: - Assess risks like sanctions, trade restrictions, or political instability. - Diversify suppliers to minimize dependency on one region. 12. **Sustainability and Ethics**: - Ensure suppliers follow ethical and sustainable practices. - Address potential reputational risks associated with unethical practices. By tackling these issues, organizations can secure competitive pricing while ensuring quality and reliability in procurement. We prioritise only pricing and competitive bidding!! But we should focus on at least half of the above considerations:::

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In today’s volatile supply chain environment, understanding the market is not optional—it’s essential. A robust market analysis helps procurement professionals anticipate trends, manage risks, and unlock cost efficiencies. From STEEPLE and SWOT to Porter’s Five Forces, Kraljic Matrix, and Supplier Segmentation, these tools empower buyers to make data-driven decisions. Strategic sourcing isn’t just about cost—it’s about value, resilience, and long-term partnerships. Are you leveraging these strategies in your procurement process? 💡 Let’s discuss: Which market analysis tool do you find most impactful? #CIPSINDIA #CIPS #Procurement #StrategicSourcing #MarketAnalysis #SupplyChain #Contract #Negotiation #Sourcing #Supplier #Vendor

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In the paradigm shift of 𝐬𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐥𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭, sourcing vs purchasing is not just semantics, it is the strategic alignment between action. 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 — the strategic backbone of procurement: • Evaluating vendors (RFIs & RFPs) • Evaluation and comparison of supplier costs • Spend analysis for improved budgeting • Developing procurement targets and goals • Terms and price negotiation • Vendor selection and onboarding • Overseeing long-term supply relationship and performance • Category and risk management driving value 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 (the tactical executor): • Understanding and signing contracts • Internal purchase requisitions and approvals management • Accelerating purchase orders and invoices • Ensuring timely delivery and controlling stock levels • Aligning goods movement with logistics • Monitoring compliance and documentations • Enabling procure-to-pay (P2P) automation When both functions are in sync, organizations can achieve: • Reduced lead times • Reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) • Improved resilience of suppliers • Effective management of inventory and cash flow • Greater stakeholder happiness across the worth chain So the next time someone uses these terms interchangeably, here’s the punchline to share: “𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐡𝐨, 𝐏𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐰.” #sourcing #purchasing #supplychain #procurement #strategicsourcing #supplychainmanagement #suppliermanagement #logistics #inventorymanagement

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Frustration in Procurement isn’t about hard work – it’s about wasted potential. Every Procurement and Supply Chain professional is ready to give their 100%. We negotiate, we safeguard margins, we ensure supply continuity, we drive compliance, and we fight fires when disruptions hit. Hard work is never the problem. The frustration begins when avoidable roadblocks keep us from creating impact: Endless approvals that delay even urgent sourcing decisions. Rigid processes that add paperwork but no value. Communication gaps between business units and procurement that create confusion instead of clarity. Suppliers kept waiting because of internal inefficiencies, not external risks. Technology tools implemented, but not optimized – forcing manual rework. This is not just an individual pain point – it’s an organizational loss. 💡 Imagine the possibilities if Procurement was truly empowered: Speed in decision-making would translate into faster go-to-market. Stronger supplier partnerships would drive resilience and innovation. Teams would spend more time on strategy and value creation than on chasing signatures. Businesses would see Procurement as a growth driver, not just a cost controller. Leaders – Procurement is not a back-office function. It’s the engine of resilience, compliance, and sustainable growth. The question is: Are we empowering it, or exhausting it with roadblocks? Because frustration in Procurement doesn’t just hurt professionals. It slows down the entire business.

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How to Manage Procurement When Supplier Payments Are Delayed One of the toughest challenges in procurement is managing supplier relationships , It’s a delicate balance between maintaining trust with suppliers and protecting your company’s interests. Here’s how I’ve learned to navigate it: 1. Transparent Communication: Be honest with suppliers about the delay, its reason, and the expected resolution timeline. Most suppliers appreciate clarity over silence. 2. Prioritize Critical Suppliers: Identify strategic vendors whose products or services are essential to operations and work on partial or staggered payments if possible. 3. Strengthen Relationships: Use the time to build rapport, not hide. Proactive engagement can go a long way in maintaining long-term partnerships. 4. Negotiate Flexibility: Offer realistic payment plans or negotiate extended terms in exchange for future commitments. 5. Internal Collaboration: Work closely with finance and leadership to prioritize payments and escalate urgent cases when needed. 6. Document Everything: Keep a clear trail of all communication and agreements to protect both parties and ensure future accountability. Procurement isn't just about sourcing — it's about relationship management, problem-solving, and strategic thinking under pressure.

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🚀 Procurement processes are undergoing a fundamental shift in the agentic era. Working with multiple global brands, here's what we are seeing. Procurement has always been the backbone of business success—ensuring supply chain resilience, mitigating risks, and driving cost savings. However, the journey of transformation in this space tells an interesting story. 💾 The Past: A decade ago, procurement transformation was synonymous with implementing ERP systems, centralizing processes, and deploying analytics dashboards. While these were significant steps forward, they often fell short of addressing fragmented workflows, siloed data, and the operational inefficiencies that strained procurement teams. 🔍 2025 and Beyond: Welcome to the Agentic Era—a future where AI agents and automation are redefining procurement. Intelligent agents seamlessly orchestrating routine tasks like RFQs, purchase order management, and supplier negotiations while offering real-time insights that drive strategic decision-making. Here’s what this transformation looks like: 1️⃣ From siloed data to actionable insights: AI agents integrate data from ERP, SaaS systems, and external sources, turning complex datasets into holistic, actionable intelligence. 2️⃣ From manual interventions to autonomous workflows: Tasks like supplier onboarding, risk assessments, and spend analysis become fully automated, freeing teams to focus on strategy. 3️⃣ From reactive to proactive procurement: Predictive analytics and scenario modeling empower businesses to anticipate disruptions and adapt swiftly. 4️⃣ From cost-centric to smarter sourcing: With AI-driven visibility, companies can make smarter, more sustainable, and ethical procurement decisions. In this new era, the focus shifts from manual effort to strategic enablement, empowering teams to make #faster, #smarter, and more #ethical decisions. 🎯 At Easework AI, we are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, helping businesses embrace these possibilities with our AI-native intelligence and automation platform. 💡 What excites you most about the future of procurement? How do you see AI agents shaping the industry in 2025? I’d love to hear your thoughts! #ProcurementTransformation #AI #Automation #SupplyChainInnovation #EaseworkAI

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🔹 INCOTERMS in SCM: Strategic Relevance in Global Procurement 🔹 After 20+ years of experience in Supply Chain & Procurement leadership, one thing remains constant — the strategic importance of understanding and applying the right Incoterms in global sourcing. Too often, we see teams focus heavily on price negotiations, while overlooking how terms of delivery impact total landed cost, liability, and compliance. Here’s a quick refresher on key Incoterms every senior supply chain leader should monitor across contracts: 📦 EXW – Minimal obligation for seller, maximum control to buyer. 🚛 FCA – Highly flexible; works well with multimodal logistics. 🚢 FOB/CFR/CIF – Traditional sea freight terms; know who handles insurance! 🏭 DAP/DDP – Seamless delivery experience, but requires careful duty planning. 📍 CPT/CIP – Excellent for end-to-end freight management with defined risk points. 🧠 Why it matters at senior level: Impacts supplier risk mitigation Affects inventory planning Influences working capital & freight budgeting Drives contract enforcement clarity in global operations 🗂️ In my strategic sourcing reviews, Incoterm alignment with operational capabilities often saves 2–4% on indirect cost — simply by defining responsibilities better. 👉 If your team isn’t regularly reviewing Incoterms at the sourcing and legal level, it’s time to make it standard practice. #SCM #GlobalProcurement #StrategicSourcing #SupplyChainLeadership #Incoterms #RiskManagement #TotalLandedCost #LogisticsStrategy #20YearsInSCM

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Delivery Discipline, Collaboration, and the Right Mindset in Supply Chain Sitting down with my team to review delivery practices, JIT principles, and continuous improvement, I’m reminded that supply chain excellence is never about one function — it’s about collaboration and mindset. Key takeaways: • Delivery timing is everything. Properly managed deliveries prevent overstocking, understocking, and the costly cycle of obsolescence and impairment. • Communication is non-negotiable. Procurement, vendors, engineers, and warehouse staff must share accurate information on usage and stock levels to keep the system aligned. • Operations + Finance are inseparable. Every unused material is not just clutter — it’s capital frozen, directly impacting cash flow and the P&L. • ERP tools (Oracle, SAP, etc.) are enablers. When used properly, they provide visibility, forecasting accuracy, and accountability across the chain. • Mindset drives results. With the right discipline and collaboration, everything is possible — from cost optimization to operational continuity. This is where my expertise lies: connecting strategy, operations, and finance into one coherent system where every decision counts. #SupplyChain #MaterialsManagement #JustInTime #ContinuousImprovement #ProcurementExcellence #ERP #WorkingCapital #Leadership

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Strategic Sourcing – Beyond Cost Savings In today’s dynamic business environment, procurement leaders must look beyond transactional buying. Strategic sourcing is about aligning supplier partnerships with business goals to deliver sustainable value. It’s not only about “who is cheapest” but “who helps us grow, innovate, and stay resilient.” It shifts focus from short-term price wins to long-term total cost of ownership and risk management. It transforms procurement from a support function into a strategic business enabler. My learning: Strategic sourcing is a continuous journey—analyzing spend, fostering collaboration, and adapting to market shifts. The real power lies in building partnerships that unlock innovation and resilience. Procurement done strategically is not a cost center—it’s a growth driver. #StrategicSourcing #ProcurementExcellence #BusinessGrowth #SupplierPartnerships #Leadership - Aasim KHAN

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🔹 The Procurement Iceberg – What Lies Beneath the Surface 🔹 In Supply Chain Management, what we see is often just the tip of the iceberg — price negotiations, purchase orders, and vendor interactions. But beneath the surface lies the real depth of procurement excellence: 💡 Below the Surface: • Strategic Sourcing • Vendor Relationship Management • Compliance & Risk Mitigation • Cost Optimization (Beyond Price) • Inventory Planning & Forecasting • Payment Cycle & Cash Flow Control • Internal Coordination & Process Discipline True procurement leaders don’t just chase the lowest cost — they manage the unseen layers that define value, sustainability, and reliability. In today’s dynamic healthcare supply chain (or replace with your industry), understanding and managing what’s beneath the iceberg is what drives resilience and long-term success. #SupplyChainManagement #Procurement #CostOptimization #StrategicSourcing #VendorManagement #Leadership #HealthcareSupplyChain

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Procurement is now a strategic lever that promotes efficiency, innovation, resilience, and sustainable growth, going far beyond basic cost savings.  Effective procurement has the following effects on the entire organization:  1. Cost Leadership & Value Creation: Procurement lowers costs while guaranteeing more efficient use of resources by negotiating competitive pricing and optimizing total cost of ownership.  2. Quality and Reliability Assurance: This ensures that the proper goods and services are obtained in the proper amount and quality, preventing interruptions to business operations.  3. Operational Agility & Productivity: Facilitates faster, more effective execution of company operations, reduces manual labor, and streamlines procurement procedures. 4. Risk Mitigation & Compliance: Strong governance, audits, and monitoring frameworks are put in place to prevent expensive errors and guard against operational and regulatory risks. 5. Supplier-Driven Innovation: Establishes enduring alliances with suppliers to promote cooperation, jointly develop solutions, and stimulate competitive differentiation. 6. Sustainable Growth Enablement: This promotes long-term business scalability by ensuring operational stability, reducing delays, and strengthening supply chain resilience. 7. Strategic & ESG Impact: This aligns procurement with sustainability objectives, improves company image, complies with regulations, and draws in ethical stakeholders. Procurement is now a strategic generator of value, innovation, and growth rather than a support role. . . . . Director – iSource INDIA | Procurement & Sourcing Consultant Strategic Sourcing and Expediting Services from INDIA #Procurement #SupplyChain #Logistics #Engineering #Sourcing #Construction #Purchasing #Business #Operations #Sustainability #Strategy #ValueCreation #Growth

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