How procurement intelligence transforms the automotive landscape

In the automotive market, the supply chain is complex and involves numerous players supplying various components, materials, and services. It’s important to note that the relationships within the automotive supply chain can be highly complex, with multiple tiers and a vast network of suppliers. Additionally, specific relationships and supply chain structure can vary depending on the OEM, vehicle type, and regional considerations. Automotive market research especially in terms of procurement often examines these relationships to understand the dynamics, performance, and interdependencies within the supply chain.

Who are the typical stakeholders in automotive procurement?

Collaboration and effective communication among the stakeholders is vital for successful automotive procurement. Each stakeholder brings unique expertise and responsibilities to ensure the efficient and sustainable supply of goods and services for the automotive industry. Here’s a closer look at the key stakeholders in the automotive procurement realm:

• Automotive OEMs: Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are the primary stakeholders in automotive procurement. They are responsible for designing, manufacturing, and assembling vehicles. OEMs determine the procurement strategy, set quality standards, negotiate contracts, and manage relationships with suppliers.
  
• Suppliers: Suppliers are an essential stakeholder group in automotive procurement. They provide various components, parts, systems, and services OEMs require for vehicle production. Suppliers range from Tier 1 suppliers directly supplying components to Tier 2, Tier 3, and subsequent tiers providing specialized parts, sub-components, raw materials, and services.
  
• Procurement and Sourcing Teams: The procurement and sourcing teams within OEMs are responsible for executing procurement strategies, identifying and evaluating suppliers, negotiating contracts, and managing supplier relationships. They ensure the timely and cost-effective sourcing of components, maintain supplier performance, and mitigate risks in the supply chain.
  
• Finance and Accounting Departments: They manage financial aspects, such as budgeting, cost analysis, payment processing, and financial reporting related to procurement activities. These departments collaborate with procurement teams to ensure financial compliance and optimize cost management.
  
• Quality Assurance and Compliance Teams: Quality assurance and compliance teams ensure that purchased components and materials meet the required quality standards, regulatory requirements, and industry-specific certifications. They work closely with suppliers to conduct quality audits, manage non-conformances, and ensure adherence to quality and compliance guidelines.
  
• Legal and Contracts Teams: Legal and contracts teams are responsible for drafting, reviewing, and managing contracts with suppliers. They ensure that contracts include the necessary terms, conditions, and legal protections. These teams also handle any contract disputes, negotiations, and legal compliance matters related to procurement.
  
• Logistics and Supply Chain Teams: Logistics and supply chain teams manage the transportation, warehousing, and distribution of components and finished goods. They work closely with suppliers and service providers to optimize the flow of materials, track shipments, manage inventory, and ensure timely deliveries to support production schedules.
  
• Research and Development (R&D) Teams: R&D teams collaborate with suppliers to develop and integrate new technologies, materials, and components into the automotive production process. They work on innovative solutions, evaluate supplier capabilities, and drive product development and improvement initiatives.
  
• Service Providers: Service providers, such as logistics companies, warehousing providers, IT systems providers, and consultants, support the procurement process by offering specialized services. They assist in areas like transportation, inventory management, data analytics, and procurement technology solutions.

Related reading: Revolutionizing connected vehicle manufacturing: The power of digital twin in automotive

What are the expected outcomes from procurement intelligence?

Procurement intelligence in market research provides valuable insights and data that enable informed decision-making, cost optimization, risk management, and strategic planning. With the right procurement intelligence, automotive companies can align their procurement strategies with their overall business objectives. It provides details on –

• Strategic decision making
• Identifying the touch points for procurement
• Partner identification
• Supplier analysis
• Supplier performance measurement
• Supplier relationship management
• Opportunities for partnership and collaboration
• Supply chain risk management
• Analysis for cost optimization
• Assessing suppliers’ sustainability practices and adherence to ethical standards
• Identification of opportunities pertaining to sustainable procurement

Thus, it can be concluded that effective procurement intelligence is essential in the automotive industry to optimize sourcing, enhance supplier management, mitigate risks, and drive cost efficiencies. By leveraging procurement intelligence, automotive companies can streamline procurement operations and improve overall process efficiency. This leads to faster procurement cycles, improved data accuracy, and enhanced overall productivity. Effective procurement intelligence is a key driver of success. It empowers automotive companies to make data-driven decisions and achieve operational excellence, ultimately contributing to the long-term profitability and growth of the organization.

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Based on insights by Kanika Shukla, Senior Analyst, Netscribes