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?
Firstly, 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 procurement experience and one to tailor depending on the specific role. 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 centred 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.
The same is true if you work in procurement consulting and sales is a part of your role. Be sure to include your sales targets, what you achieved and whether the clients were new business development or upselling etc.
Layout
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 previous roles.
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 always 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.
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 additional 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. ESG is especially topical – if you have experience in this area, no matter how little, it’s good to include this too. Across your CV, try to bring out these areas of your role highlighting any wider procurement achievements you are particularly proud of.
Update your LinkedIn
Your LinkedIn is a snapshot into your experience and such a useful tool for getting noticed – and something a hiring/talent manager is likely to check. Remember to keep this up to date – especially when applying for roles.
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 declan@pod-talent.com