Process automation, driven by the adoption of AI, is transforming the way companies manage their supply chains. From planning to delivery to the consumer, the use of AI and data in the day-to-day purchasing process enables buyers to make faster and more accurate decisions, resulting in greater operational efficiency and reduced costs for the sector.
To talk about the new era of the buyer, automation, data and AI at the 21st Purchasing & Sourcing Forum, an event by Live University – Inbrasc, held on November 11th and 12th, we invited Paulo Rosanova, Commercial Director of ME, as the panel mediator, Criciele Vilela, Executive Purchasing Manager at Nestlé, and Paula Corrêa Soares, Corporate Procurement Manager at Atvos.
According to Gartner, the most advanced supply chains are expected to adopt a combination of technologies such as robotic process automation (RPA), machine learning (ML), blockchain, among others —to become increasingly autonomous.
Below, check out the main insights presented on the panel by our guests:
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Process automation frees up time for strategies
The adoption of technologies to automate purchasing processes is helping to free buyers from operational activities, allowing them to focus on issues that are more important to the company's bottom line.
“The biggest burden for buyers is operational. So, by using technology to automate various processes, they have time to think outside the box, be more creative, do market analysis… The professional can look at and focus on what is strategic, on the consumer at the end.”
Criciele Vilela, executive purchasing manager at Nestlé
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Robots boost purchasing efficiency
The use of RPA, purchasing robots automate repetitive tasks, optimize operational processes and increase the accuracy of information, freeing up buyers and allowing teams to focus on what really matters: strategies that generate value for the business.
“Robots enhance purchasing results. Automation with robots must ensure compliance in operations, first and foremost. To implement hyperautomation, a well-structured governance is required in the company. A robust database is required.”
Criciele Vilela, executive purchasing manager at Nestlé
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The profile of the modern buyer has changed
The purchasing sector has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by digitalization and new market demands. And the buyer profile has also evolved. Now, it is necessary to stay on top of trends and robust technologies.
“AI brings very interesting insights, but the buyer is the one who makes the change. They are the ones who make the decisions on a daily basis. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate critical thinking. Behavioral skills, such as empathy, relationship with suppliers, and 360º vision, are differentiators.”
Paula Corrêa Soares, Corporate Supply Manager at Atvos
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Effective leadership inspires and motivates teams
In a dynamic market, adopting new technologies has become essential to maintain companies’ competitiveness and efficiency. However, changing mindsets requires leadership that inspires confidence and encourages teams to adapt to challenging scenarios.
“AI brings very interesting insights, but the buyer is the one who makes the change. They are the ones who make the decisions on a daily basis. Therefore, it is essential to cultivate critical thinking. Behavioral skills, such as empathy, relationship with suppliers, and 360º vision, are differentiators.”
Paula Corrêa Soares, Corporate Supply Manager at Atvos
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Humans and machines need to work together
The synergy between technology and human intelligence is the path to the future of the purchasing and supply chain area. Humans and machines form an important partnership to transform processes, optimize decisions, innovate and drive growth in the sector.
“To achieve efficiency, we need to have knowledge and a basis for making decisions. In this sense, humans and machines need to work side by side. Technology helps a lot, but the transversal skills of buyers continue to be very relevant. Every professional needs to see themselves as an agent of transformation.”
Paula Corrêa Soares, Corporate Supply Manager at Atvos
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