SupplyChain Magazine June 2017 | Page 79

ASIA take a more innovative and long-term approach aligned with the business strategy and future requirements .”
IT We have seen how technology has revolutionized all fields within business and procurement is no different in this regard . While shifting to automation is a challenging task indeed , yet , it is one of the most important factors which bring great benefits in the longer run .
Mr . Ansari points out that it is not just the efficiency which is improved and enhances the performance , but more so , the valuable insights which the data and information provide for strategic decision making . Whether it is monitoring the inventory levels , gauging the effectiveness of the sourcing channels or supervising the timeliness of the deliveries , technology and data are an absolute necessity , providing actionable business insights .
CHALLENGES Asked about the challenges faced as a procurement leader , Mr . Ansari answers : “ Heading such a sensitive and strategic function , especially in a sector like Telecom , where the rate of technological advancement is most accelerated and pronounced , is a challenge in itself . Nevertheless , the hardest thing about this role has been sparing and adjusting time for self-initiated projects .
You can get so busy with core and other related jobs vis-à-vis targets that often those personal projects having great potential to become a turning point in your practice as well as for the organization are pushed aside . Besides this , at times , understanding all of the interdependent relationships may be challenging , it is definitely one big team effort here ; everyone has a role to play .”
ERP SYSTEM : Mr . Ansari goes on to describe how he had an opportunity to work for an organization where post-privatization , the management ’ s priority was to stay abreast of market and business trends and above all , the technological needs .
They started implementing state of the art of SAP-ERP back in 2007 in phases ( the biggest ever SAP deployment in the country with core and strategic modules ) – the initial
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