Coupa & PwC: AI-Driven Procurement for Manufacturing

Procurement’s role in manufacturing is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Once seen only as a cost-control function, procurement is now at the heart of value creation, innovation and strategic decision-making.
But what does this shift mean for procurement leaders in manufacturing, and how can organisations adapt?
In an upcoming webinar hosted by Coupa and PwC, industry leaders from Watches of Switzerland Group and Deliveroo will explore the future state of procurement in 2030, examining the key trends, technologies and skill sets shaping the profession.
To join this webinar on 25 March, click here.
Procurement’s strategic evolution in manufacturing
As manufacturing supply chains become increasingly complex and global disruptions more frequent, manufacturing procurement has had to take a broader and more strategic approach to its operations.
Procurement teams are no longer just negotiators – they are value creators. Whether through responsible sourcing, supplier diversification or digital transformation, procurement is shaping business strategy in manufacturing.
In an industry where supply chain stability and cost efficiency are crucial, strategic procurement is a competitive advantage. Leading manufacturers are leveraging procurement to ensure supply continuity, enhance supplier relationships and embed resilience in their operations.
How can technology reshape procurement in manufacturing?
Emerging technologies are reshaping procurement, making processes more predictive, automated and insight-driven.
The likes of AI and automation are not just reducing manual effort – they are unlocking deeper insights, improving supplier collaboration and enabling manufacturers to become more agile in response to market shifts.
Predictive analytics, for example, enables procurement teams to anticipate demand fluctuations, optimise sourcing strategies and mitigate risks associated with material shortages.
Meanwhile, autonomous procurement – where AI-powered systems manage purchasing decisions – can enhance compliance, reduce inefficiencies and improve cost control.
[During the webinar] We will touch on AI, analytics, and how autonomous procurement is transforming the landscape.
The part I have found most interesting in the run-up is talking to Laura Hunt about Watches of Switzerland Group PLC, celebrating over 100 years in operation, with heritage and analogue at the heart of its business. Then talking with Rob Turner about the definition of a digital native business, founded in the last decade or so (2013) - and with the inimitable Daniel Cameron prodding on mandate and measurement, people and skills, technology and more.
Join the conversation
Date and time: 25 March, 10:00 am GMT | 11:00 am CET
Register now: Charting the Course to 2030: Procurement Reimagined
As procurement evolves, so must its talent pool. Manufacturing procurement leaders need to adapt to new technologies, develop strategic thinking and foster cross-functional collaboration.
Future-ready procurement teams will combine technical skills with a deep understanding of business strategy, supplier ecosystems and risk management.
Manufacturers must invest in upskilling their procurement teams with the capabilities required for the AI-driven procurement landscape.
Webinar speakers:
- Laura Jones, Director of Alliances at Coupa
- Dan Cameron, Partner at PwC
- Laura Hunt, Head of Procurement at Watches of Switzerland Group
- Rob Turner, Chief Procurement Officer at Deliveroo
Join these expert speakers on 25 March to explore key insights into the future of procurement.
With perspectives from industry experts across luxury retail, food delivery, procurement technology and consulting, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of emerging trends, AI’s impact and the evolving skill sets needed to drive procurement excellence in manufacturing over the next decade.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain actionable insights from procurement leaders shaping the future of the industry. Click here to secure your attendance.
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