In today’s fiercely competitive talent market, attracting and retaining mid-level to senior professionals in procurement and supply chain isn’t just about a good salary. For organisations seeking to secure the right hire in 2025, getting the employee value-proposition (EVP) right is as important as defining the job spec. Drawing on the latest trends in our function and the insights we use as a specialist marketing & recruitment agency, here’s what it takes to win the right hire and the workplace benefits that matter most.
Why benefits are now a strategic differentiator
In 2025, the role of procurement and supply chain professionals has evolved. They are no longer just tactical “buyers”, they’re strategic partners shaping resilience, sustainability, and digital transformation. According to research from Hays, salaries in the UK procurement & supply field rose by around 5.75 % over the last year - more than double inflation - yet pay alone is no longer enough.
Similarly, 90 % of procurement & supply chain professionals were considering a move in 2025, the highest of any function.
What this tells us: your benefits and employer brand need to reflect how this talent now thinks, works and values their career.
What benefits matter most
Based on current market signals, the following are high-impact benefit themes in the procurement/supply chain space:
- Flexible working & hybrid/hybrid-remote models: As supply chains globalise and procurement teams synchronise across time zones, flexibility is a major attractor. A willingness to support hybrid working signals modernity.
- Professional development & upskilling: Given the rapid evolution of tools (AI, analytics), sustainability (ESG) and risk resilience, candidates want a growth path.
- Strong sustainability/ESG credentials: Many procurement folks now expect their role to reflect broader purpose: ethical sourcing, supply-chain resilience, sustainability agendas.
- Well-structured benefits (health, family, wellness): Beyond salary, benefits that support wellbeing, family, career continuity are gaining traction.
- Clear career progression & leadership visibility: Roles that offer strategic impact and cross-functional exposure are more appealing than purely transactional jobs.
If your organisation wants to secure the best hires, your “package” needs to articulate more than “competitive salary”, it must signal flexibility, purpose, growth and culture.
What to look for in the “right hire” in procurement & supply chain
When recruiting mid- to senior-level procurement/supply chain professionals in 2025, a job spec needs to reflect the new reality of the discipline. Here are the key attributes you should focus on:
- Strategic mindset
Candidates must be comfortable shifting from cost-only focus to value creation, risk management, supplier ecosystem thinking. They should understand that procurement now sits at the heart of business strategy. - Digital & data literacy
With the rise of automation, AI and analytics in procurement, top professionals need to know how to use data, drive insights, optimise supplier networks. - Sustainability, governance & resilience orientation
The complexity of global supply chains and increased visibility of ESG means that procurement professionals need to embed ethical, sustainable and resilient practices into their sourcing and supply strategies. - Change leadership & influence
Senior hires in procurement/supply chain frequently need to navigate cross-functional stakeholders, convince internal partners, lead transformation initiatives. A strong communicator who can influence at Board or executive level is a plus. - Cultural fit & agility
Given the pace of disruption (geopolitical, regulatory, technological), your hire needs to be agile, open to change, able to thrive in ambiguity. - Demonstrable track record
Rather than just listing responsibilities, look for clear evidence of delivery: improved supplier performance, cost or value gains, sustainability achievements, analytics-led decisions.
Key Takeaways
- In 2025, procurement & supply chain roles are strategic, data-driven and mission-driven, your benefits need to reflect that.
- Salary matters, but candidates now factor in flexibility, development, purpose, and culture.
- The “right hire” is someone who bridges digital/analytical capability with strategic thinking, sustainability mindset and leadership influence.
- A strong EVP, agile recruitment process and specialist partner will improve your chances of securing top talent.
- Retention begins at hire, think beyond just selection to how your hire will thrive with you.
By aligning your recruitment strategy, benefit offering and candidate experience to these insights, you’ll be well positioned to win the talent your procurement and supply chain function needs.
Ready to secure the procurement talent your business needs?
Speak to our specialist team today.
