e& Advances AI-Powered Procurement Strategy with CIPS Excellence Recognition
e& has strengthened its position as a technology-driven organisation after receiving recognition through the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Procurement Excellence Programme (PEP), highlighting its commitment to modernising procurement operations, improving governance, and adopting global best practices.
The recognition reflects e&’s continued efforts to transform procurement into a more strategic function that supports innovation, operational efficiency, supplier collaboration, and long-term business growth.
The CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme is a globally recognised assessment framework that evaluates procurement functions against international standards. It enables organisations to measure their capabilities, identify improvement opportunities, and develop strategies for continuous advancement.
Using AI to Modernise Procurement Operations
As part of its procurement transformation journey, e& has incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies to improve efficiency and support smarter decision-making.
The company said AI is helping procurement teams streamline processes, analyse information more effectively, and focus more time on strategic activities such as negotiation, supplier engagement, and value creation.
According to e&, digital transformation has become essential for organisations seeking to move beyond traditional procurement models and adopt more agile, data-driven approaches.
“Digital transformation is no longer optional; it has become essential for moving beyond traditional methods and embracing more efficient ways of working. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, we are enabling our talented negotiators to dedicate more time to their core strengths, driving greater value for the organisation.”
Khalid Murshed, Group Chief Operations Officer, e&
He also praised the procurement team’s ability to adapt to changing business requirements under the leadership of Saeed Al Zarooni.
Strengthening Procurement Governance and Supplier Partnerships
Through the CIPS programme, e& has enhanced its procurement capabilities across key areas including governance, risk management, supplier relationship management, sustainability, and strategic value creation.
The assessment provides organisations with an independent review of their procurement maturity and helps establish a roadmap for improving performance.
Saeed Al Zarooni, Group Chief Procurement Officer at e&, said the recognition demonstrates the important role procurement plays in supporting business transformation and innovation.
“At e&, procurement plays a critical role in enabling innovation, supporting operational excellence and creating long-term value across our business. Participating in the CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme has provided valuable independent recognition of our capabilities while helping us identify opportunities to continue evolving and strengthening our procurement function.”
Saeed Al Zarooni, Group Chief Procurement Officer, e&
CIPS Recognises Commitment to Procurement Excellence
CIPS highlighted e&’s investment in procurement transformation, noting that organisations that develop strong procurement capabilities are better positioned to improve decision-making, strengthen supplier relationships, and build resilience.
Sam Achampong, Regional Director of CIPS MENA, said e&’s achievement demonstrates the growing importance of procurement as a strategic business function.
“We are delighted to recognise e& through the CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme. Organisations that invest in procurement excellence are investing in stronger decision-making, better supplier collaboration and the long-term capability needed to support sustainable business success.”
Sam Achampong, Regional Director, CIPS MENA
The CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme evaluates organisations across areas such as procurement strategy, leadership, sustainability, supplier management, risk controls, and overall value delivery.
Through AI adoption and continuous improvement initiatives, e& is positioning its procurement function as a key driver of digital transformation, efficiency, and sustainable business growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What recognition did e& receive?
e& was recognised through the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Procurement Excellence Programme, which evaluates procurement capabilities against international standards.
2. What is the CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme?
The CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme is an assessment framework that helps organisations measure procurement performance, identify improvement areas, and strengthen procurement practices.
3. How is e& using artificial intelligence in procurement?
e& is using AI to improve procurement processes, support better decision-making, increase efficiency, and allow procurement professionals to focus more on strategic activities.
4. Why is AI important in modern procurement?
AI helps organisations analyse data faster, automate repetitive tasks, manage risks, improve supplier relationships, and create more efficient procurement operations.
5. What areas does the CIPS assessment evaluate?
The assessment reviews procurement strategy, governance, leadership, supplier relationship management, sustainability, risk management, and value delivery.
6. How does procurement support business growth?
A strong procurement function helps organisations control costs, build reliable supplier partnerships, manage risks, encourage innovation, and create long-term business value.
7. What does e&’s recognition mean for its future strategy?
The recognition highlights e&’s commitment to digital transformation, operational excellence, and building a procurement function aligned with global standards.
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