Are you hoping to secure a new procurement role or internal promotion? In today’s competitive market, standing out from the crowd is vital. New Zealand-based Dan Hearty, Senior Consultant at Hunter Campbell, shares his top interview tips for procurement candidates.
Whether you’re stepping into your first procurement role or aiming for the next level, preparation is key. Focus on what you’ve delivered, not just what you’ve done.
- Demonstrate commercial acumen: Highlight where you influenced cost, lead times or supplier performance, or took an innovative approach to achieve a successful commercial outcome
- Quantify your impact: Think spend managed, savings achieved, risk reduced. Numbers show the tangible value that you can deliver
- Share how you’ve navigated disruption: Supplier risk, pricing volatility and supply shocks are especially relevant given recent market conditions
- Structure your answers: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Emphasise your contributions. Use “I” instead of “we” when discussing the influence you had
- Be fluent in tools: Familiarity with ERP systems, analytics and digital procurement platforms is essential, especially as technology continues to evolve
- Ask insightful questions: Focus on procurement maturity, systems in place and transformation plans. This shows strategic thinking
Above all, treat the interview as your opportunity to demonstrate how you drive results, manage risk and elevate procurement’s strategic value.
Bonus tip: Many of these suggestions don’t just apply to the interview stage, they’re just as relevant when updating your CV.
Clear structure, measurable impact and commercial insight are just as important on paper as they are in person.
Follow Dan Hearty on LinkedIn for more insights or contact him directly at danh@huntercampbell.co.nz
