How to Write the Perfect Procurement CV

This title might seem like click-bait and of course it is difficult to define what perfect looks like. However, there are certain points which are important to include in every CV.

But what do you need to include when applying for a procurement vacancy?

First of all, it’s important to be flexible depending on which procurement role you are applying for and it is good practice to have two CVs – one to showcase your general experience and one to be tailored depending on whatever the role requires. The below points will give a quick overview of the key areas to think about when writing your CV.

Facts and figures

It should go without saying - but not always evident in the CVs that we receive for an application - facts and figures are important! This is especially the case for procurement professionals considering your job is primarily centered on reducing costs. All good CVs should be able to demonstrate the level of spend associated with your particular category and the percentage of savings you have achieved against your target. It’s good to include the team savings but also very important to document your own. This will help during interview processes as you are almost guaranteed to be asked about your personal contributions. If it’s in black and white it’s easy to back up what you did. Don’t forget – no saving is too small and it gives a tangible example of delivery and your ability to hit targets.

Lay out

According to research, the average employer spends less than 30 seconds reading a CV so it makes sense that your CV is aesthetically pleasing and that your achievements are clear. If your CV focuses too heavily around education, personal interests or courses attended, then it will be difficult to extract the important information. The below is a good example lay out:

Name

Personal details : Address, Email and Contact Number

Profile and core skills : Give a short paragraph on your general skill set and values – no one wants to read your autobiography in the first paragraph!

Education:  List your professional qualifications and degree/education.

Most recent role and responsibilities: List your company, role title and duration. Then give an overview of your objectives and set some context to the achievements you will document.

Achievements : Now is your time to shine – as noted above list off your savings achieved, level of stakeholders you have worked with and processes you have helped improve. It is a good idea to list these in bullet points making it easy to read.

Repeat the above formula for your recent roles : If your earlier positions were not in procurement then don’t waste time and effort documenting them - the hiring manager won’t pay much attention to it and it won’t get you the job you are applying for. Simply list the company, role and time worked there. If your procurement experience exceeds 8 - 10 years apply the same method for roles previous to this.

Any languages and technology experience

Personal interests – it is important to note that emotional intelligence is key for this section. Sports and activities showcase your collaborative and active sides – your love of French cinema and your pets' names aren't as relevant! Be selective about what you share.

References - if you choose to disclose your references on your CV two references are enough, otherwise you can disclose them upon request.

Font

It’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution when deciding what font to use. Anything garish or too colourful may distract from the content – best to avoid symbols or company logos too. When in doubt, choose something sensible such as Arial, Calibri or Times New Roman.

Length

The length of the CV is important as you want to get enough information in to showcase your procurement experience but also avoid losing the readers’ attention. It can be tricky, especially if you are a procurement contractor and have worked on numerous relevant contracts. However, as a standard practice it is always a good idea to stick to two, at a push three pages for a permanent procurement application. For interim, three pages should be long enough however four pages can work - try to keep it fresh and if the earlier roles weren’t relevant then don’t go into detail.

Softer skills and experience

The attributes and skills for the ideal procurement professional have evolved over the last few years. Although savings are still very important, it is equally important to demonstrate your negotiation skills, your level of stakeholder engagement, processes and governance you have helped improve and the value you have added to the wider business. Across your CV, try to bring out these areas of your role highlighting any wider procurement achievements you are particularly proud of.

Summary

Writing a strong CV takes time and effort but worth doing to secure your dream role.

If you are in need of some assistance with your CV then get in touch directly by emailing me at d.mcelroy@bramwithconsulting.co.uk or call on 0207 138 4100 to speak to the Bramwith team.