Top procurement interview questions & how to prepare

Procurement can be a highly rewarding, but challenging profession. During a procurement job interview, you’ll be competing against other highly qualified candidates. Therefore, it is crucial you make a strong impression.

Above all else, preparation is key. Reviewing common interview questions in advance will boost your confidence.

So, what are some common procurement interview questions and how do you answer them?

Why do you want to work in procurement?

Interviewers want to know you are passionate about the industry. In your answer, outline what motivated you to pursue a career in procurement.

Why do you want to work for this organisation?

Interviewers want to know what motivated you to apply for their organisation. Answering this question requires research. Take a look at the company’s website and social media sites. Identify the organisation’s values, vision and mission statement and see if you can align these with yours.

What are some of the most essential skills in procurement?

Interviewers ask this question to see if you understand the requirements for the role. Answering this question requires preparation. Carefully re-read the job description of the role you are applying for. Identify any key skills and experience that are listed and try to align them with yours.

Describe a time when you successfully negotiated with a supplier to obtain a better outcome for an internal client

Interviewers ask this to learn more about your negotiation and relationship management skills. To answer this question, give an example of when you achieved a successful outcome for an internal client. In your answer, explain the steps you took to achieve this. Include any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.

How do you maintain a healthy relationship with suppliers?

Building and maintaining positive relationships with suppliers is essential in procurement. In your answer, outline the steps you take to foster strong relationships with suppliers.

Tell us about your experience in procurement

This question is designed to assess whether you have the skills and experience required for the role. Take a look at the key skills listed in the job description and see if you can match these with your experience.

Describe a complex procurement process you have managed

Similar to the previous question, interviewers ask this question to gain insight into your experience in procurement. In your answer, highlight any challenges you confronted along the way and the steps you took to address these.

How do you prioritise your work as a procurement specialist?

Working in procurement, you will often have to manage multiple tasks at once. Interviewers want to see you understand what tasks need to be prioritised. To answer this question, provide examples of how you have previously managed competing demands.

How would you identify opportunities to improve purchasing habits?

Interviewers ask this question to assess your analytical skills and problem-solving capabilities. Give an example of how you applied your analytical skills in a previous role to improve purchasing decisions.

Have you ever worked with a problematic supplier? What was the outcome?

This question is designed to test your conflict resolution skills. To answer this question, provide an example of how you have dealt with a difficult supplier in the past. Include the steps you took to resolve the situation.

How do you keep up to date with procurement trends?

Procurement is a constantly evolving industry. Interviewers want to know the methods you use to keep your knowledge up to date. In your answer, explain the methods you use to keep your procurement knowledge up to date.

Procurement interviews can be challenging. However, with preparation and self-reflection, you can give yourself the best chance of success.

Are you looking for a career in procurement? Public Service Resumes can help. We offer various services including interview coaching for procurement professionals.