Why procurement should not report to finance?

By | June 14, 2023

Operational efficiencyOperational Efficiency

 

Operational efficiency, Procurement and finance are separate functions within an organization, each with its own distinct objectives and responsibilities.

While it is common for procurement and finance departments to collaborate closely, there are valid reasons why procurement should not directly report to finance.

Here are a few key points:

1. Independence and Objectivity:

Procurement functions should maintain independence and objectivity to ensure fair and transparent purchasing processes.

By reporting directly to finance, there is a risk of undue influence or conflicts of interest, as finance may prioritize financial goals over procurement considerations, such as quality, reliability, and supplier relationships.

2. Focus on Value Creation:

Procurement’s primary goal is to source goods and services at the best possible value, considering factors like quality, cost, timeliness, and supplier performance.

By operating independently from finance, procurement can focus on strategic sourcing, negotiating favorable contracts.

Finding innovative solutions that drive cost savings and value creation for the organization.

3. Risk Mitigation:

Effective procurement practices involve assessing and mitigating risks associated with suppliers, contracts, and supply chain disruptions.

By reporting directly to finance, procurement may face pressure to prioritize short-term financial gains, potentially compromising risk management efforts, supplier due diligence, and sustainability considerations.

4. Cross-Functional Collaboration:

Procurement interfaces with various departments, including operations, logistics, legal, and quality assurance.

Reporting to finance may limit effective collaboration and communication between procurement.

Other functions, hindering the integration of procurement strategies with broader organizational goals.

5. Compliance and Ethical Considerations:

Procurement activities involve adherence to ethical standards, compliance with regulatory requirements, and fair competition principles.

By maintaining an independent reporting structure, procurement can establish and enforce ethical sourcing practices, implement robust supplier evaluation processes,and ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

6. Performance Evaluation:

Procurement’s performance is typically assessed based on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to cost savings, supplier performance, risk mitigation, and efficiency.

Having an independent reporting line allows for a more accurate assessment of procurement’s contribution to organizational objectives, rather than solely focusing on financial metrics.

It’s important to note that while procurement and finance should operate independently, close collaboration and communication between the two functions are crucial. Establishing effective cross-functional processes, sharing relevant information.

Aligning goals can optimize procurement’s contribution to financial performance and overall organizational success. Operational efficiency

 

To visit https://www.incometax.gov.in

 

For further details access our website https://vibrantfinserv.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *