Procurement should let the business run its own sourcing event when the purchase is suitable for delegation, the requirements are straightforward, and stakeholders can follow an agreed process. Indirect procurement leaders and intake owners should consider risk and complexity alongside spend before making a decision. Delegation works best when the business has practical tools, access to procurement support, and clear instructions on when specialist review is required.

At ProcureCon East 2026, practitioners discussed how smaller procurement teams can support business-led sourcing while retaining appropriate oversight. Deborah Augustus, Director, Indirect Goods and Services Procurement at Integra LifeSciences, described an intake approach that gives stakeholders permission to run an RFP with support: "Here's your toolkit; come back to us with questions or anywhere along the process that you need help." Her example positioned delegation as a supported service rather than a complete handoff.

Other conference discussions reinforced that a low purchase value does not automatically make an engagement suitable for self-service. Practitioners described retaining sourcing reviews for new suppliers that require security and financial checks, while also bringing repeated smaller purchases into procurement when their combined value warrants closer attention.

Start by defining which purchases qualify for business-led sourcing and which require procurement involvement. Give stakeholders templates for requirements, supplier comparisons, and decision records, then specify escalation points for data access, compliance questions, nonstandard terms, and changes in scope. Review delegated activity periodically to identify recurring demand and refine the support stakeholders need.

Join procurement leaders at ProcureCon East to explore how supported self-service sourcing can help the business move efficiently while keeping procurement expertise available where it matters most.