Beyond the Numbers: Accelerating Action and Advancing Gender Equity in Procurement

The World Economic Forum estimates we won’t reach full gender parity until 2158. That’s far too long, so we need to take a real, honest look at our progress and Accelerate Action.

It’s time to move beyond surface-level discussions and dive into the real, lived experiences of women in procurement and supply chain.

Two years ago, we launched our Against the Odds research report and the findings were eye-opening. Women made fantastic strides enduring challenges, pushing past barriers, and advancing their careers in procurement and supply chain. But persistent challenges remain – a stark reminder that we still have work to do.

The Reality Check

Let’s talk numbers: a significant 74% of women in procurement reported experiencing gender-based adversity at work. That’s not just a statistic; it’s real life. We’re talking about being passed over for strategic projects, finding out you’re paid less for the same work, or having your ideas taken without credit. It’s the subtle biases, the microaggressions, and the outright discrimination that chip away at our progress. And let’s not forget the 26% of women that felt ignored or overlooked by male colleagues and reported having difficulty “getting airtime” in meetings.  

Then there’s leadership. We saw women excelling in procurement teams, often representing 40-50% of leadership roles. However, when it came to the C-suite and boardrooms, that number plummeted to 15%. That’s a major divide, revealing the deeply unequal journey to executive leadership.

We asked what needed to change, and the responses were clear: close the pay gap, provide strong mentorship, and invest in leadership training. However, most women felt their companies were falling short. Sixty-nine percent said mentoring programs were lacking, 59% felt the same about pay equity, and 55% about leadership training. Leaders are talking the talk, but not necessarily walking the walk – yet.

How We Can Accelerate Action Together

Now, we’re navigating a whole new world. Return-to-office mandates, shifting DEI priorities, and economic uncertainty are all at play – introducing new challenges for women in procurement.

Here’s how we can all work together to accelerate action, and make a tangible difference:

• Strategic Self-Promotion: It’s not enough to excel – you have to be seen. Volunteer for high-visibility projects, present at industry events, and strategically highlight your achievements.
• Intentional Network Building: Cultivate genuine relationships with mentors, sponsors, and peers. Seek out individuals who will advocate for you and provide honest feedback.
• Negotiation as a Skill: Master the art of negotiation. Understand your value, research industry benchmarks, and confidently advocate for your needs, whether it’s salary, promotions, or project assignments.
• Crafting Your Leadership Narrative: Define your unique leadership style and communicate it effectively. Build your personal brand through thought leadership, public speaking, and active participation in industry discussions.
• Advocating for Inclusive Cultures: Be a catalyst for change within your organisation. Challenge biases, promote diversity, and create a workplace where everyone feels valued and respected.
• Prioritising Holistic Well-Being: Recognise that your well-being is integral to your success. Set boundaries, prioritise self-care, and seek support when needed.
• Documenting Your Professional Journey: Keep a detailed record of your accomplishments, skills, and contributions. This will serve as a powerful tool for career advancement and performance reviews.

Your Voice Matters: Join the Conversation and Drive Change

We’re checking in on the state of gender-based adversity in the workplace with the launch of our latest survey. Is procurement moving forward, or are we taking steps back? Are the gains we’ve made sustainable, or are we at risk of losing ground?

We’re on a mission to find out and we need your real, unfiltered experiences. Your stories are the data that will drive meaningful change.

And because we believe in making a difference beyond our industry, we’re partnering with Plan International.

Why Plan International? 

As procurement professionals, we understand the critical importance of access to essential resources like water. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world, access remains a significant challenge.

Girls are disproportionately affected by inadequate water and sanitation. Often responsible for collecting clean water, they face increased health risks and vulnerability, especially when menstruating, due to poor facilities.

Some of the ways in which Plan International is working to change this is by providing improved WASH facilities in rural communities and health clinics, as well as delivering educational programs that empower families to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on their daily lives.

For every survey response, we’ll donate $10 to Plan International to support their mission. It’s a small action that can have a significant impact.

Ready to join the conversation and be a part of the solution?

Take the Women in Procurement and Supply Chain Survey today.

Your voice matters. Let’s use it to Accelerate Action and create a more equitable future for all.