Navigating scarcity: Strategic optimisation and resilience in the contemporary supply chain and procurement landscape
Abstract
Examining the prevalent ‘do more with less’ imperative within contemporary supply chain management and procurement, the aim of this paper is to reframe this challenge beyond simplistic cost reduction towards strategic optimisation and organisational resilience. The analysis synthesises academic research and industry practices to address the problem of unsustainable pressure and potential burnout resulting from poorly implemented scarcity mandates. Key findings identify the limitations of traditional productivity metrics, the necessity of integrating technological advancements with human-centric strategies, the significant cognitive impact of factors such as financial worry, and the trend towards agile, data-driven and ethically grounded supply chain operations. The paper concludes that successfully navigating scarcity requires a holistic approach balancing efficiency with employee well-being, fostered by ethical leadership and a culture of continuous improvement. This strategic perspective enables organisations not just to cope with constraints but to leverage them for sustainable value creation and competitive advantage. This article is also included in The Business & Management Collection which can be accessed at https://hstalks.com/business/.
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Author's Biography
Lenora Sevillian , MBA, CIPP, CPPP, CPCM, LSSGB, SFC, NCN-A, CPe-P, a distinguished leader in procurement, is the Executive Director of Educational Procurement (EdPro), Community Engagement at E&I Cooperative Services. In this executive capacity, she leverages over 30 years of public and private sector experience to foster strategic partnerships and empower educational institutions nationwide. A former At Large Director on the National Association of Educational Procurement (NAEP) Board of Directors, she has a proven history of shaping the future of the profession. Lenora’s career is marked by a demonstrable track record in strategic leadership, cost optimisation and operational transformation. Furthering her commitment to integrity in the field, she is currently pursuing a doctorate in law and policy at Northeastern University (expected graduation 2027). Her research focuses on deconstructing corruption and fraud in public sector procurement by examining the psychological theories that drive unethical actions. A recognised mentor passionate about talent development, Lenora is the recipient of numerous accolades, including the prestigious 2024 EPIC Lifetime Achievement Award. Lenora’s global perspective is demonstrated through her contributions to advisory bodies such as the United Nations Higher Education Sustainability Initiative Committee (HESI+10) and the Clean Energy Ministerial Policy Development Committee, reflecting her dedication to advancing the procurement profession through ethical practice, sustainability and continuous learning.
Nicolas Bachfischer is a research assistant and a first-year undergraduate student at Florida Atlantic University. A recent high school graduate, he brings a strong academic foundation in psychology, demonstrated through his advanced placement psychology and AICE sociology coursework, to his role as a contributing researcher. This background fuels his interest in understanding human behaviour and motivation. Beyond his academic pursuits, Nicolas is deeply committed to community engagement. His extensive volunteer experience includes providing holiday meals and gifts to underprivileged families and tutoring middle school students, highlighting his dedication to helping others. Nicolas aspires to a career in professional sports and aviation psychology. His developing expertise and commitment to the field make him a valuable addition to the psychological research community.
Citation
Sevillian, Lenora and Bachfischer, Nicolas (2025, December 1). Navigating scarcity: Strategic optimisation and resilience in the contemporary supply chain and procurement landscape. In the Journal of Supply Chain Management, Logistics and Procurement, Volume 8, Issue 2. https://doi.org/10.69554/CBXJ8740.
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