Artificial intelligence is rewriting the rulebook for procurement. Professionals face a tough new workforce challenge: balancing technology advancement with the irreplaceable human touch.

To be sure, AI is a game changer, offering greater efficiency, increased automation, cost savings and smarter decision-making, but it’s also creating a skills gap that’s hard to ignore. Procurement leaders have to juggle tech integration while making the most of the human qualities that keep their teams competitive.

Take supplier relationships. AI can analyze performance data, predict risks and suggest cost-saving opportunities. Yet it’s the procurement leader’s ability to build trust, negotiate deals and navigate cultural nuances that secures long-term partnerships. These human skills complement AI’s insights, creating a dynamic balance of data-driven decisions and interpersonal finesse.

A recent study by Ivalua shows that some of the biggest hurdles to embracing AI in procurement aren’t about the technology itself. The problems? Conflicting departmental priorities (57%), siloed information (44%), and poor communication channels (22%). The solution? “Soft” skills. In fact, they might be the hardest-hitting tool in a leader’s kit.

Of course, tasks like supplier evaluations, contract management and spend analysis can be automated. But where AI stumbles, humans shine — in creativity, emotional intelligence and relationship-building. If procurement leaders want to thrive in an AI-first workplace, they must double down on these timeless capabilities. 

Companies are catching on. Around 70% are investing in upskilling programs, and 68% are prioritizing reskilling. The focus is on soft skills like communication, negotiation, adaptability and relationship management. These aren’t just nice-to-haves; they’re the secret sauce for leaders navigating the dynamic world of AI integration and the changing expectations for those entering the workforce.

AI might streamline processes, but it will never replace the human ability to build trust, foster collaboration or nail strategic partnerships. Traits such as empathy, creativity and values-driven decision-making aren’t just "soft" — they’re indispensable. Leaders who master these skills will stand out in a sea of algorithms and automation. 

In a world overloaded with data, it’s easy to get lost in the numbers. That’s why procurement leaders need to level up their learning game. Critical thinking and emotional intelligence can help them sift through the noise, and make smart decisions and inspire their teams to do the same. It’s not about man versus machine; it’s about coexistence.

Resilience and improvisation are two soft skills that are worth their weight in gold. The first helps leaders roll with the punches, as change happens faster than ever. The second equips them to think on their feet and logically solve problems on the fly.

As AI takes care of routine decisions, leaders will contribute most to their organizations by embracing ambiguity and refining their resilience and improvisation skills. With these human skills honed, leaders can more confidently step out of their comfort zones and take calculated risks that pay off for the business.

It’s important not to forget about mentorship. Great leaders don’t just lead; they inspire people, lifting them up to achieve new heights. Mentorship relies on skills such as authenticity and encouragement. More than simply teaching technical skills, mentors work closely with mentees to help identify strengths and tackle challenges with confidence. The bonus is that mentorship works both ways. It sharpens a leader’s own interpersonal skills and exposes them to diverse viewpoints, making them even better equipped to navigate a fast-changing world.

Future procurement leaders can stay ahead in an AI-driven landscape in the following ways:

• Keep learning. Don’t get comfortable. Expand your knowledge and sharpen your leadership skills to stay ahead of the curve.
• Network smart. Surround yourself with people who challenge and inspire you. A strong network can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
• Chase experiences that matter. Look for opportunities that are likely to push you outside of your comfort zone. Creativity and resilience grow when you tackle meaningful challenges.

It’s time for procurement professionals to stop looking at soft skills as a bonus or supplementary to “real” skills like technical competency, and recognize these human skills are pivotal to our work alongside emerging technologies. While AI might be able to handle some of the heavy lifting, minimizing repetitive tasks and increasing capacity, unique human qualities like resilience, empathy and adaptability will distinguish procurement teams and drive success.

AI is powerful, but people are irreplaceable. Leaders who recognize the need to work in harmony with both will build teams that thrive in any environment. They aren’t just adapting to change — they’re shaping the future. And in a world where everything seems to be speeding up, with less time to focus, that kind of leadership really matters.

Ari Stone is global senior vice president of value engineering, solution consulting and services with Ivalua.