Procurement is no longer some administrative job done by invisible people whose work no one really understands. Over time, it has become one of the key functions in every company’s operations—especially now, in the era of globalization, technological progress, and a growing focus on sustainability. Given the increasing popularity of this field, the question arises: why has a career in procurement become such an attractive choice for young professionals?
Procurement in Numbers: How Are Young People in Croatia Doing?
According to the latest data from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics, approximately 5% of young people in Croatia are employed in the procurement sector. At first glance, this might not seem like a remarkable figure. However, considering that many young people tend to choose careers in IT, marketing, sales, and similar fields, this percentage indicates a positive upward trend in the industry.
When compared with other European countries, Croatia is keeping up with the trend. In Germany, around 6% of young people work in procurement, while in the United Kingdom that number reaches 7%. Since in more developed countries procurement is recognized as a key business function, Croatia is slowly but steadily catching up.
What Makes Procurement an Appealing Profession?
Job Dynamics
A career in procurement is far from monotonous—it brings new challenges and opportunities every day. The diversity of tasks, from negotiating with suppliers around the world to analyzing market trends, ensures that no day is the same. In addition, communication with different departments within the company enriches the social aspect of the role.
Opportunities for Career Growth
Procurement offers numerous opportunities for learning and advancement. You can grow vertically within the department, from a procurement specialist to a procurement director. You can also specialize in specific areas such as procurement analytics, sustainable procurement, or supplier relationship management.
Interestingly, procurement also allows for lateral career movement—experience in procurement can be applied to related fields such as supply chain management, logistics, or inventory management. Because procurement works closely with production, finance, and sales, professionals often transition into these departments as well. The possibilities are vast.
International Environment
Working in procurement often involves collaborating with partners from different countries, traveling, and experiencing new cultures. For those who enjoy the dynamics and global nature of business, this is an ideal environment.
Business Impact
Procurement professionals directly influence business performance. By selecting the right suppliers and negotiating favorable terms, they can play a major role in their company’s success, becoming essential “links” in every team.
Young People and Technology – A Perfect Match for Procurement
Today’s young generation grew up with technology, making them a perfect fit for modern procurement, which increasingly relies on digital tools. Automation, data analytics, and artificial intelligence are all areas where young professionals can apply their skills and knowledge.
For example, software solutions such as procurement management systems enable better supplier tracking, process automation, and data analysis. Young people master these tools much faster, finding them easier to use than traditional methods.
Why Procurement Appeals to Generation Z?
Generation Z and procurement go hand in hand, and here’s why:
Technology and Digitalization
Generation Z grew up surrounded by smartphones, social media, and digital apps. As a result, they are comfortable using modern software tools that simplify market analysis, trend forecasting, and process automation. Procurement offers them the chance to apply their digital skills in ways that are both impactful and directly linked to business success.
Sustainability and Ethical Choices
Sustainability is one of Generation Z’s top priorities—they seek jobs where they can positively impact the environment and society. Procurement provides exactly that opportunity: to influence supplier selection based on responsibility and high ecological standards. Studies show that over 60% of Generation Z prefers working for companies with strong environmental policies, and procurement allows them to become active agents of positive change.
Dynamism
Procurement offers young professionals the chance to face new challenges every day—whether negotiating with suppliers, implementing innovative solutions, or optimizing the supply chain. Their fresh perspectives fit perfectly with a dynamic environment where they can constantly test ideas and deliver creative solutions.
Generation Z brings enthusiasm, technological fluency, and a passion for sustainability to the procurement sector, making it the perfect field for their professional growth.
If you’re young and looking for a career that’s dynamic, tech-driven, and aligned with your values, it might be time to consider procurement. Who knows—procurement might just be your ticket to success!
