AI-Powered Procurement: Seeking a Smarter Path

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a core element of procurement as organisations aim for more efficient, transparent and resilient supply chains.
By automating repetitive tasks such as invoice processing and supplier onboarding, AI allows teams to prioritise strategic decision-making. Predictive analytics further strengthen risk management and cost control by anticipating demand changes, supplier issues or market volatility.
As sustainability and compliance gain importance, AI supports procurement leaders in monitoring performance, identifying opportunities for innovation and ensuring responsible sourcing practices.
At Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE London 2025, AI in procurement will take centre stage during an exclusive workshop sponsored by Coupa, exploring Thoughtworks' AI-driven procurement transformation.
To register your interest in attending this high-level workshop, click here.
Please note: these tickets are for C/V/D-level executives only and a business email address is needed to register. If you do not meet this criteria, your ticket may be cancelled.
AI adoption gathers pace
Procurement is embracing AI at an accelerating pace, with the technology increasingly shaping both decision-making and long-term strategy, according to ProcureAbility, part of the Jabil group.
The firm’s recent report, AI Adoption and Its Impact on Procurement, found high levels of satisfaction among procurement professionals, with 92% confirming they are happy with how AI solutions are performing within their functions.
Adoption spans multiple areas of procurement, with supplier discovery and selection showing the strongest uptake at 77%. This is closely followed by spend analysis and categorisation, used by 76% of respondents.
“AI is no longer optional in procurement; it’s a critical driver of competitiveness,” stated Darshan Deshmukh, President of ProcureAbility.
“Organisations that move beyond tactical use cases to embed AI strategically will unlock transformative benefits in cost management, supplier relationships and operational performance.”
During the Future of Agentic AI panel at Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE Chicago earlier this year, experts explored AI’s ability to transform procurement.
They also highlighted the technology’s risks, particularly in relation to data accuracy, cybersecurity, ethics and operating models.
"Think slow and act fast," advised Bhavik Pathak, Director and Head of Supplier Quality - Americas Region at Alstom. "Don't just follow the trend; use AI effectively with guardrails."
Panellists agreed that successful adoption depends on strong processes, robust governance, active human involvement and organisational adaptability.
"We need to make sure humans are in the loop," added Kareem Mohamednur, Principal, Procurement Transformation at PwC. "It's about scaling securely without freezing progress."
The smarter path to AI-powered procurement
At Procurement and Supply Chain LIVE London, join Johan Mills, Global Head of Business Services at Thoughtworks, for an in-depth look at how the company is reshaping procurement with AI.
Hear first-hand about the firm's search for the right AI tools to boost efficiency, lessons learned along the way and practical advice for success.
This Coupa-sponsored session, The Smarter Path to AI-Powered Procurement, will explore key themes including ethical data, augmenting teams with AI, myths versus reality and the future of AI in procurement.
Expect an inspiring workshop packed with insight and actionable guidance to help strengthen your organisation’s AI-driven procurement strategy.
Johan will be joined by Anthony Tate, Senior Director of Segment Marketing and Comms at Coupa.
Click here to register your interest.
Procurement and Supply Chain LIVE London 2025
Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE is returning to the Business Design Centre in London for its annual Global Summit on 23-24 September.
This unmissable event is aimed at facilitating knowledge sharing and connections among the world's procurement and supply chain leaders.
Those attending can enjoy inspiring keynotes, engaging panels and exclusive workshops covering a diverse range of topics, including supply chain transformation, procurement technology, sustainability and ESG, AI, finance, logistics and supplier relationship management.
To secure your tickets, click here.


