Procurement Mission & Vision Statemement
Nicolas Passaquin
Chief Procurement Officer - Global Head of Sourcing ; Transformation ; Value Creation & Performance optimisation ; Risk & Sustainability
A well-crafted mission and vision statement is crucial for any procurement function, providing a clear roadmap for the department's future and aligning it with the broader organizational goals. This article breaks down what these statements are, why they are important, and how to build them effectively.
What Is a Mission & Vision Statement?
Vision Statement:
A vision statement is a concise and inspiring declaration of what the procurement function aspires to become and achieve in the future. It paints a picture of the desired long-term outcome and serves as a source of inspiration and motivation.
Mission Statement:
A mission statement, on the other hand, is a brief, specific statement that defines the core purpose of the procurement function. It clarifies what the function does, who it serves, and how it adds value to the organization. Together, these statements set the strategic direction and provide a framework for decision-making and performance evaluation.
?Why Is It Important?
Direction and Focus:
A clear mission and vision provide a sense of direction and focus for the procurement team. They help prioritize activities and allocate resources effectively, ensuring that all efforts are aligned with the organization’s overarching goals.
Motivation and Engagement:
These statements serve as powerful motivational tools. When team members understand the broader purpose and long-term goals of their work, they are more likely to be engaged and committed. This leads to higher productivity and job satisfaction.
Communication and Alignment:
Externally, a well-articulated mission and vision help communicate the value and role of the procurement function to stakeholders, both within and outside the organization. This fosters better collaboration, understanding, and support from other departments and partners.
How to Build a Mission & Vision Statement
Step 1: Define Purpose and Value
Start by clarifying the fundamental purpose of the procurement function. Ask questions like: What is the core role of procurement in the organization? What unique value does it bring? Who are its primary stakeholders?
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Step 2: Identify Core Principles and Values
Consider the principles and values that guide your procurement activities. These might include transparency, efficiency, sustainability, or innovation. Ensure these values are reflected in your mission and vision statements.
Step 3: Set Long-term Goals and Aspirations
Think about the long-term goals of the procurement function. Where do you see the department in five or ten years? What achievements and milestones do you aspire to reach? These goals will form the backbone of your vision statement.
Step 4: Align with Organizational Objectives
Ensure that the procurement function’s mission and vision are aligned with the broader organizational mission and vision. This alignment ensures coherence and synergy between different departments and supports overall strategic objectives.
Examples:
Vision Statement: "To be the most trusted and innovative procurement partner, delivering sustainable value and excellence in every transaction."
Mission Statement: "Our mission is to provide efficient, transparent, and strategic procurement services that support the organization's growth and sustainability goals."
Tips:
- Keep it concise and clear.
- Use inspiring and aspirational language.
- Ensure it is specific to the procurement function and not too generic.
- Involve key stakeholders in the development process for broader buy-in and perspective.
?In conclusion, a well-defined mission and vision statement is more than just a formality; it is a strategic tool that can drive the procurement function towards greater effectiveness and alignment with the organization's goals. By following the steps outlined above, you can create statements that inspire, motivate, and guide your procurement team towards a bright and successful future.
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About me: Passionate about driving organizational excellence and sharing expertise, I wrote two books available on Amazon. With a focus on strategic collaboration and digital transformation, I lead efforts to optimize sourcing and supply chain operations for enhanced business performance.
Great article!
Facilitator
5 个月Hi Nicolas Passaquin I am increasingly of the opinion that, whilst the transactional and sourcing parts of Procurement must 'align, commit and follow', there is a higher role. It is that of challenging corporate strategy. Few in an organisation have experience of the external business, social and political envrionment equivalent to Procurement. The role is close to that described as System 4 in Stafford Beer's Viable Systems Model: responsibility for looking outwards to the environment and monitoring how the organization needs to adapt to remain viable. Other functions that have a wide external perspective include Research and Sustainability. Interestingly, these have been recently combined with Procurement in Mars Inc., through a single executive report. Sales & Marketing look outwards but too often with a narrow product angle. I am putting this idea about in the hope that some will pick it up and take it seriously.