Advance in Procurement. Scott Dance, Procurement Associate Director, shares expert career insights

Procurement and supply chain are vital drivers of business success, yet breaking into these fields can be tough amid rapid change and global uncertainty.

Scott Dance, Associate Director of the Procurement and Supply Chain Recruitment Division at Morson Group, is leading efforts to support aspiring professionals with expert insights and recruitment strategies, sharing his knowledge recently at the “Climbing the Procurement Career Ladder” webinar.

The webinar took place on 23rd of April, and Scott highlighted a few actionable insights from this knowledge-driven event to help professionals navigate and advance in the competitive world of procurement. With over 22 years of experience in recruitment and a deep expertise in talent retention, Scott offers a great amount of expertise. 

At Morson Group, Scott is driving the growth of the procurement and supply chain practice, advising clients on tailored talent strategies, from recruitment PSLs and MSP/RPO models to consultancy and statement of work (SOW) solutions. His knowledge has been recognised in major publications such as the Financial Times, Procurement Magazine, Logistics Magazine, and Supply Chain Online, making him a trusted expert in the industry.

Breaking into the procurement and supply chain sector

Procurement and supply chain management aren’t just back-end business functions – they’re the engines driving efficiency, customer satisfaction, and competitive edge in today’s fast-paced global economy. Yet, despite their growing importance, breaking into these fields can be daunting. 

Rapidly evolving technologies, global disruptions, and economic uncertainty have only raised the bar for aspiring professionals. Fortunately, a new wave of expert-led initiatives is stepping in, offering guidance, mentorship, and a clearer path forward for those ready to shape the future of supply chain and procurement.

Scott, as a leader of the Morsons Procurement and Supply Chain recruitment practice, is driven by a clear mission: to connect the most suitable candidates with opportunities in the dynamic and ever-evolving procurement sector. His team specialises in placing skilled procurement and supply chain professionals across a number of industries. Scott also works with customers to provide talent solutions across the private and public sector. 

I’m committed to building a best-in-class procurement and supply chain division. By sharing our knowledge and expertise, my team’s core focus is to support candidates not just in finding a role, but in building long-term, fulfilling careers in this critical sector. We’re equally dedicated to helping clients secure the best talent, while building strong, lasting partnerships along the way.

Actionable insights on how to stand out in the procurement job market

To gain deeper insights into how to enter or progress in the procurement and supply chain industry – and navigating the challenges that come with it – Scott joined a panel of inspiring industry experts, including Analisha Noel, Founder & CEO of The Procurement Plug, Susannah Gooch, Procurement Leader at Treyo, and Hayley Packham, Director at the Procurement Heads Resourcing Group. 

Together, they shared actionable advice during a recent webinar, highlighting the critical role of relationship management and transferable skills. Their insights offered candidates a valuable perspective on what recruiters are really looking for in today’s competitive market.

1. Networking and building strong relationships

Building a robust professional network is no longer optional. It’s essential. Whether it’s maintaining an up-to-date LinkedIn profile, attending industry events, or joining sector-specific forums and groups, networking helps open doors that job boards simply can’t.

The most successful candidates do not just connect with people, they engage with them, too. By contributing to discussions, sharing insights, and supporting others in the field, they build networks. And networking is a two-way street: the more value you provide, the more opportunities you’ll attract. Remember, strong relationships built on genuine interest and trust often lead to referrals and hidden job opportunities.

2. Staying relevant with current industry trends

Procurement and supply chain are being rapidly shaped by innovation. The growing influence of sustainability, digital transformation, and AI (including tools like ChatGPT) are already redefining how organisations operate. Keeping pace with these developments is crucial.

Stay informed by subscribing to industry publications, attending webinars, and following thought leaders. Not only does this keep you market-ready, but it also demonstrates to employers that you’re forward-thinking and adaptable.

3. Being tech-savvy

Digital literacy is critical in a tech-driven procurement environment. Familiarity with procurement platforms, analytics tools, and automation software gives you a competitive edge. Candidates who fall behind in technical skills often struggle to compete, especially in mid-to-senior level roles.

Invest time in learning new platforms and systems relevant to your field. Even free tools and online courses can make a noticeable difference.

4. Mastering your CV

Your CV is still one of the most important tools in your career arsenal. It should be clear, concise, and tailored to the role. Avoid generic phrases and instead, focus on tangible results. For example, as Scott suggests, instead of saying ‘strong communicator,’ say ‘regularly communicate with C-suite stakeholders to align procurement strategy with business goals’. Specificity wins.

Also, make sure your CV highlights key achievements, not just responsibilities, metrics or results wherever possible and that the skills are aligned with current industry demands. In a competitive job market, your CV needs to do more than tick boxes. It needs to stand out so you stand out as a candidate.

5. Developing your own personal brand

Another key point is to ensure your online presence is relevant and authentically reflects who you are, as your personal brand shapes how others perceive you professionally. It’s shaped by your expertise, values, and the way you communicate online. Recruiters and hiring managers often get their first impression of you through your digital footprint. 

Make it count by showcasing thought leadership (e.g. sharing articles or writing posts), highlighting your achievements and unique value and, as mentioned above, engaging meaningfully with your network. What’s key is to be authentic. Your goal is to be seen as a credible and trusted voice in your space.

Overcoming challenges - how to climb the procurement career ladder?

Navigating a successful career in procurement can be demanding, especially in a competitive and ever-evolving job market. Climbing the ladder requires more than just technical know-how. It demands strategic thinking, strong negotiation skills, and well-established relationships with both internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

As explored throughout this guide, today’s fast-paced procurement world demands visibility, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous growth. Standing out means being proactive, future-focused, and aligned with organisations that value sustainability and impact.

Whether you’re proactively exploring new opportunities or simply preparing for what’s next, the strategies discussed will empower you to remain relevant, resilient, and ready for advancement.

As Scott summed up:

Progress in procurement isn’t just about climbing the ladder; it’s about knowing where you want to go, and building the skills and relationships to get there.

Morson as one of the largest engineering recruiters in the UK is committed to providing expert knowledge and career advice. For more insights, check out our blog or if you are ready for your next step, search for a job on the Morson site.