Rewriting the Rules of Procurement
Procurement is stepping out of the shadows. No longer just a cost-control function, it’s becoming a driving force behind business growth, innovation, and resilience. The 2025 CPO Study explores how leading Chief Procurement Officers (CPOs) are transforming their mandate—claiming their seat at the executive table and shaping the future of enterprise strategy.
This year’s study, based on insights from 335 companies and over 20 CPO interviews, reveals a clear pattern: Procurement’s potential is rising—but only a select few are unlocking it fully. These teams, which we call Impact Leaders, are redefining success by linking Procurement to company-wide KPIs, embedding themselves in executive decision-making, and proactively navigating volatility and disruption.
Key Messages: The CPO Playbook
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Procurement Must Seize Its Seat at the Executive Table—Now
Procurement is a strategic growth engine, yet only 46% of teams are proactively shaping value at the executive level -
Impact Leaders Win – The Rest Fall Behind
The top procurement teams don’t just execute strategy —they define it. They actively engage with executives, drive competitive agility and deliver +2% higher revenue growth than average.
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CPOs: The Next CEOs
Procurement leaders with strong business, digital, and leadership skills are rising fast – 65% of large companies say strategic leadership is now a key procurement capability
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Agility is the New Bottom Line
Market shocks, supply chain disruptions, and regulatory shifts are business as usual. 66% of impact leader teams invest in measures to boost agility—compared to just 49% of other teams
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Stop Talking About Value – Start Proving It
56% of impact leaders measure success with company-wide KPIs like revenue and margin growth—not just savings. If procurement isn’t tied to business impact, it’s invisible. -
Innovation Isn’t Optional – It’s the Lifeline
34% of companies depend on supplier-led innovation for product development. Agile procurement leaders co-develop solutions, anticipate market shifts, and create advantage
Get the Full Report Explore the full findings, benchmarks by country, and action plans for transformation. Whether you’re looking to drive value, increase agility, or elevate Procurement’s influence—this report is your roadmap. Download the full study results for free:
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