For many years, procurement has been seen as a male-dominated field, there has been and to some extent there still are certain unwritten rules which propagate stereotypes and biases against women at workplace that have hindered their progress. However, in recent years, women have been breaking down these barriers and making significant strides in procurement.

Unwritten Rules – Stereotypes Facing Women in Procurement in the USA

Despite the progress made by women in procurement, they still face common stereotypes that hinder their progress. One common stereotype is that women are too emotional and are not able to handle the high-pressure environment of procurement. According to a survey by Deloitte, 46% of women in procurement have experienced gender bias in the workplace, with emotional stereotypes being one of the most common.

Another stereotype that women in procurement face is that they lack negotiation skills. However, research shows that women are just as effective as men in negotiation. A study by Columbia Business School found that women are actually better at negotiating than men in certain situations, such as when the other party is aggressive.

The impact of these stereotypes on women in procurement is significant. Women in procurement are often paid less than their male counterparts and are less likely to be promoted to leadership positions. According to the Institute for Women’s Policy Research, women in procurement earn only 77 cents for every dollar earned by men in the same role.

Overcoming Challenges: Progress Made by Women in Procurement

Despite these challenges, women in procurement have made significant progress over the years. According to the 2019 ISM Salary Survey, women in procurement in the USA earned an average salary of $100,000, compared to $95,000 in 2018. Women are also increasingly represented in leadership positions in procurement. A report by Supply Chain Dive found that the percentage of women in procurement leadership positions increased from 29% in 2018 to 33% in 2019.

Women in procurement have also been successful in breaking down stereotypes and defying expectations. For example, Bonnie Keith, President of the Institute for Supply Management – Silicon Valley, is a successful procurement professional with over 30 years of experience. She has been recognized as one of the most influential women in Silicon Valley and has won numerous awards for her contributions to the field.

The progress made by women in procurement can be attributed to a number of factors, including increased representation in the industry, mentorship and support networks, and the implementation of diversity initiatives. Companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion in their procurement teams are more likely to attract and retain talented women, leading to improved business outcomes.

Embracing Opportunities: Benefits of Diversity in Procurement

One of the key benefits of having women in procurement roles is the increased diversity of perspectives and experiences. This can lead to better decision-making, improved innovation, and increased profitability. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, companies in the top quartile for gender diversity are 21% more likely to experience above-average profitability than companies in the bottom quartile.

Diversity in procurement also leads to a more inclusive workplace culture, where all employees feel valued and supported. This can lead to increased employee engagement and retention. A study by Deloitte found that companies with inclusive cultures are six times more likely to be innovative and agile.

To embrace the opportunities for diversity in procurement, companies can implement a number of initiatives, such as mentorship programs, professional development opportunities, and networking events. These initiatives can help women in procurement overcome challenges and advance in their careers. Companies can also prioritize diversity in their procurement teams by setting diversity

International Women’s Day presents a valuable occasion to acknowledge and honor the endeavors of women over the years. The theme for this year, “Embrace Equity,” emphasizes the emphasis on advancing equality. Overall, the future of women in procurement is looking bright. While there is still work to be done to address stereotypes and create more opportunities for women, the trends and opportunities that are emerging suggest that the field is becoming more diverse and inclusive. With continued focus and effort, we can ensure that women have equal opportunities to excel in procurement and help to shape the future of the field.