The future of procurement

Organizations with advanced procurement processes enjoy a host of benefits - from faster speed to market and high levels of innovation to improved compliance and a seat at the business strategy table.

But how is procurement changing? And what can procurement leaders do to stay ahead of the curve?

We sat down with Aïssatou Sylla, Procurement Lead at Qonto, to get the lowdown on the future of procurement, navigating economic volatility and her tips for controlling SaaS spend.

How has technology impacted your role, and what innovations are you most excited about? 

Aïssatou: In previous roles, technology wasn’t always a priority, especially in procurement. However, at Qonto, we’ve spotted the benefits that investing in tech can bring. We’ve taken the opportunity to leverage tools that significantly enhance productivity and reduce lead times. This helps us modernize and accelerate what we can do as a team and a business. 

I also believe AI will play a key role in improving procurement adoption across teams, making it easier for all stakeholders to engage. 

What is your number one tip for procurement leaders when it comes to tackling rising SaaS and cloud costs? 

Delegation is crucial. Whether through third-party partnerships, leveraging the right technology, or empowering contract owners with responsibility, delegation helps manage complexity. 

However, this must be accompanied by clear guidance and governance to ensure accountability and alignment with overall business goals. 

How do you stay adaptable in a constantly changing economic landscape? 

By continuously tracking market trends, reading industry reports, attending webinars, and engaging with peers from different sectors. It’s important not only to stay informed but also to gain diverse perspectives by exploring how other industries approach procurement and operations. 

This broader view helps prevent tunnel vision and enables innovative, flexible approaches. 

How do you see the role of procurement evolving in the coming years? 

I hope procurement’s value will become more widely recognized, especially in tech-driven industries. We’re seeing positive shifts, but more progress is needed to showcase procurement’s strategic contributions to the business.

In the future, I expect procurement to be involved in broader business functions, including M&A, where cost management and due diligence are critical. The role will likely become more embedded in top management’s strategy and recognized by investors as a key value driver. 

What are some of the key trends in the procurement sector today, and how are you helping Qonto navigate them?

SaaS management, spend management, or P2P tools are rapidly evolving, with new entrants bringing fresh innovation to the space. 

What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you at the start of your career in procurement? 

Stay curious and never stop learning. The procurement landscape is always evolving, and continuous learning is crucial for staying ahead. Whether it’s about new technologies, negotiation tactics, or emerging industry trends, maintaining a curious mindset will always help you adapt and grow.