The “stars have aligned” for the procurement and supply profession, Farrell says
Ben Farrell, Global CEO of the Chartered Institute for Procurement & Supply (CIPS), the gold standard for the international procurement and supply profession with a presence in 180 countries, has issued a stark warning against protectionist policies, blasting recent US tariffs and urging African nations to step forward as leaders in the next era of global supply chains.
Speaking at the CIPS Africa Conference & Awards in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Farrell drew strong parallels to America’s devastating protectionist policies of the 1930s.
“The most popular vehicle in America is the Ford F150 – 45% of its parts are made outside America. Some of them here in Africa,” he said.
“Now these manufacturers are about to see a 35% increase in costs because of tariffs. Consider the implications of this unilateral national action against global suppliers. It’s insanity.”
He reminded delegates that CIPS itself was founded in 1932 in response to US tariffs on steel, policies that contributed to the Great Depression.
“We were formed as an anti-protectionism organisation. And almost 100 years later, we are still facing the same threats.”
Farrell used the platform to underscore the growing global importance of procurement and supply professionals, arguing that in a deeply interconnected world, their expertise is not just relevant — it is essential.
“The stars have aligned for procurement and supply around the world, and particularly here in Africa,” Farrell said. In a world where business is no longer a single entity but a web of interconnected partners, procurement professionals have the skills the modern economy demands — supplier relationship management, network thinking, strategic foresight.”
Farrell cited major global businesses — including Apple, GM, and Alibaba — as examples of how leaders with procurement and supply backgrounds were now steering global giants.
“Tim Cook built his foundation in supply chain. This is where business leadership is headed.”
Farrell praised African nations for their growing contributions to the profession, singling out Nigeria’s tech industry and the commitment shown in countries like South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Botswana, Eswatini and Namibia.
“I have a great affinity for Africa and a deep belief in what’s going on here. The work you are doing is exceptional,” he said. “This is not just about being part of global supply chains – this is about leading them.”
He added that CIPS was experiencing “booming” growth, particularly in Africa.
“We exist in a global economy. And in a world approaching 9.7 billion people by 2050, procurement and supply professionals will be at the heart of solving the biggest challenges – energy, food, water, and sustainability.”
“The question of whether procurement deserves a seat at the table is over,” Farrell said. “A new era is emerging, and our profession has never had a more profound role to play.”
Farrell concluded with a message of optimism and urgency: “The tectonic plates of business have shifted in front of our faces. The world has changed. And we, the procurement and supply community, are not just responding. We are leading.”
