RESHAPING THE FUTURE: PROCUREMENT EDUCATION MEETS AT MTF STU ??

BRIDGING ACADEMIA AND INDUSTRY: PROCUREMENT EDUCATION AT MTF STU ??

Walking into the lecture hall at MTF STU, 22 years after my graduation with a master’s degree in Material Science Engineering, was a profoundly reflective moment. As a student, I was immersed in the technicalities of materials and their applications, a world that fascinated me. Fast forward two decades, and that technical foundation has become invaluable in my role at Henkel, where I now lead procurement strategies focused on decarbonization of Scope 1 and 2 emissions. Standing in front of the next generation of students, I couldn’t help but realize how much that technical knowledge has shaped my journey as a buyer. This time, however, I wasn’t there to take notes but to share knowledge as a lecturer. The roles had reversed, and it was a moment of pride and reflection. ??

THE NECESSITY OF PROCUREMENT EDUCATION ???

Procurement, though often overlooked in academic curricula, plays a vital role in driving operational efficiency and cost savings. When I stood in front of the students, I emphasized how essential it is for future professionals to understand the basics—supplier management, cost control, and contract negotiation. These are skills that will empower them to make critical decisions in their future careers. Procurement isn’t just about buying; it’s about making informed choices that impact the entire value chain of an organization.

NEW TRENDS IN PROCUREMENT ????

The procurement landscape is evolving rapidly, driven by new technologies and sustainability imperatives. During the lecture, I introduced students to trends like digital transformation, AI-powered tools, and the increasing importance of sustainability in purchasing decisions. For instance, in my role at Henkel, we are deeply involved in reducing emissions and focusing on sustainable procurement, which is becoming a non-negotiable aspect of business strategy. These new trends don’t just enhance efficiency—they align procurement with broader corporate goals like decarbonization, making procurement a key player in achieving sustainability targets.

THE POWER OF INTERDISCIPLINARY CONNECTIONS ??

Procurement doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It’s closely interwoven with logistics, supply chain management, and quality control. One of the key messages I shared with the students was the importance of understanding how procurement connects with these other disciplines to drive business performance. Whether it's negotiating with suppliers, managing inventory, or ensuring product quality, procurement professionals need to collaborate across functions. In my own experience, having a strong technical foundation has been crucial. My background in Material Science gave me the ability to assess the environmental impact of materials—an essential factor when developing decarbonization strategies.

CLOSING REFLECTIONS ?

It was a humbling experience to return to MTF STU not as a student but as a lecturer. I left the lecture feeling inspired by the students' curiosity and enthusiasm. The future of procurement lies in educating the next generation to not only master the technicalities of the discipline but to also think strategically, integrating procurement with broader business and environmental goals. I’m excited to see how these students will take what they’ve learned and apply it to the evolving world of procurement. By fostering an interdisciplinary approach, we can ensure that procurement continues to drive value in the companies of tomorrow. ????