Procurement Podcast: Amanda Prochaska on AI & Procurement

Navigating the Human Side of Procurement Transformation

In this episode of the Procurement Magazine podcast, host Aaron McMillan sits down with Amanda Prochaska, Founder and Chief Wonder Officer of Wonder Services. With over 21 years of experience leading massive transformations at global giants like Kraft Heinz, Kellogg’s, and MGM Resorts, Prochaska is now on a mission to guide organizations through the complexities of the modern era. The conversation delves into the reality that the primary barrier to innovation is rarely the technology itself, but rather the people and culture behind it.

A Foundation Built on Real World Negotiation

Prochaska’s journey began not in a boardroom, but in a grocery store. She recounts a pivotal onboarding moment early in her career where her first leader tasked her with negotiating discounts on dented cans at a local market. This practical introduction to negotiation sparked a 24 year career dedicated to problem solving and creative transformation. After falling into the industry following an International Political Economics degree, she has become a vocal advocate for elevating the procurement function from a transactional role to a strategic cornerstone.

Breaking Labels and Empowering Women

A significant portion of the discussion focuses on the landscape for women in procurement. Prochaska addresses the controversial labeling that often occurs, where women are categorized as aggressive for being assertive, while their male counterparts are praised for the same behavior. She emphasizes the importance of confidence and the PIE model (Performance, Image, and Exposure) to help professionals shape how they are perceived within an organization. By moving beyond just performance, leaders can intentionally build a legacy that inspires the next generation.

Activating AI Through Hands On Experimentation

While many fear the displacement of roles by artificial intelligence, Prochaska views this shift as a pioneer era. She argues that the best way to quell anxiety around AI is to "go do". Prochaska shares her experience building five AI agents during a road trip, including tools that help job seekers optimize their resumes for tracking systems. In her view, AI will eventually handle many centralized activities, allowing procurement teams to focus on high value strategy and relationship management.

Leadership and Soft Skills in a Digital Age

As technology handles more of the analytical heavy lifting, Prochaska believes soft skills will become the profession's greatest asset. She highlights that women, in particular, bring strengths in building community, trust, and influence. Furthermore, she encourages procurement leaders to become better at internal marketing. Historically, the function has been too modest about its successes. By learning to "sell" the value of procurement, professionals can secure their seat at the table and drive greater business impact.

Future Outlook for the Global Supply Chain

Looking 20 years into the future, Prochaska envisions a decentralized procurement model. She predicts the function will evolve into a small, highly expert group that builds AI agents and sets guardrails for the rest of the organization to follow. While the tech stack we rely on today may soon be obsolete, the need for deep supplier relationships and stakeholder trust will remain constant.

Conclusion

Amanda Prochaska’s insights remind us that while AI is the tool, humans remain the architects of change. Whether through coaching, creative problem solving, or pioneering new technologies, the goal is to leave the industry better than we found it. By embracing experimentation and focusing on soft skills, procurement professionals can navigate the shift into what comes next with confidence.

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