Talent Acquisition in Procurement: Attracting the Next Generation of Procurement Professionals

Procurement leaders know that talent is the engine behind long-term success. But talent acquisition is more than filling open roles. It’s about building a future-ready workforce that can drive transformation, manage supplier risk, and navigate increasingly volatile global markets.

Understanding the Next Generation

To attract the next generation of procurement professionals, organizations must align with evolving talent values. Gen Z and younger Millennials increasingly prioritize work-life balance over compensation. They view flexibility, hybrid work models, and autonomy as baseline expectations rather than perks. Therefore, organizations must adapt to remain competitive in attracting top talent.

Four Strategies to Attract Top Talent

Here are 4 things your company can do to attract the next generation of procurement professionals:

Position your company as an employer of choice. Use social media and employer branding to showcase culture, values, and the positive impact your team delivers. A strong brand sparks interest from high-potential candidates seeking meaningful work. Highlight procurement’s role in ESG and ethical sourcing to attract purpose-driven talent, particularly those who value alignment with organizational principles.
Develop an early talent pipeline. Leading companies connect with students early through internships, campus programs, and immersive experiences. Building a talent pipeline before candidates enter the job market creates a competitive advantage. Share your passion for procurement and clearly communicate career paths, mentorship opportunities, and ongoing learning programs.
Prioritize inclusive hiring practices. Diversity hiring is more than a value—it’s a performance driver. As the workforce becomes more diverse, inclusive practices bring fresh perspectives and stronger team dynamics. Procurement teams with varied backgrounds are better equipped to solve complex problems, drive innovation, and engage with diverse stakeholders.
Activate employee referral networks. Employee referrals remain one of the most effective ways to attract new talent. Encourage team members to share openings within their networks, and consider offering referral incentives. Both digital and in-person networking extend reach into high-quality talent pools.

Retaining Top Talent

Attracting talent is only half the challenge. Organizations must also create environments where professionals feel supported, challenged, and empowered. Leading companies are embracing innovative, personalized reward programs that go beyond compensation. ProcureAbility’s latest research shows that recognition, flexibility, and growth opportunities are key to keeping high performers motivated and loyal.

Preparing for the Future

Emerging technologies, economic uncertainty, and changing workforce expectations are transforming how procurement teams operate and who they hire. Discover further trends reshaping talent strategies and get practical insights for next-gen hiring in the “Future of Procurement Talent”.