Emerging Trends in Spend Management in 2025

We’ve officially stepped into 2025, and with it comes a wave of new developments and opportunities in the world of spend management. Following a year marked by economic challenges, supply chain disruptions, and an accelerating focus on sustainability, organizations have proven their capacity for agility and innovation. Now, as we navigate the next twelve months, leaders in procurement, external workforce management, business networks, and travel and expense (T&E) must be prepared to harness emerging trends — many of which revolve around automation, AI, and holistic process orchestration.

To shed light on the changes taking place, here are some gathered insights from top executives at SAP Intelligent Spend and Business Network. Their perspectives highlight how AI, next-generation leadership, and interconnected business ecosystems are shaping the spend management landscape in 2025.

1. The AI-Powered Procurement Revolution

“AI and cloud-based solutions are now firmly at the heart of data-driven decision-making, enabling real-time insights and freeing teams to focus on high-impact initiatives.”
— Etosha Thurman, Chief Marketing Officer for Intelligent Spend and Business Network at SAP

Key Takeaway:

Procurement functions have moved beyond routine transactions and are now key players in strategic business initiatives, thanks to AI tools that streamline and accelerate day-to-day tasks. By automating everything from data collection to initial supplier assessments, AI empowers procurement professionals to concentrate on activities that drive long-term value — such as managing risk, forging stronger relationships with suppliers, and improving sustainability outcomes.

2. Streamlining Processes Through Orchestration

“Many companies still grapple with multiple systems for various procurement tasks, causing siloed processes and employee frustration. Process orchestration is bridging these gaps by creating a centralized hub that seamlessly connects disparate systems.”
— Manoj Swaminathan, President and Chief Product Officer for Intelligent Spend and Business Network at SAP

Key Takeaway:

In 2025, the push for unified platforms and consolidated workflows has never been stronger. Solutions like SAP Ariba Intake Management illustrate this shift by automating request creation and offering a single point of entry for employees. This centralized approach lowers the risk of compliance errors, increases adoption, and ultimately drives efficiency — all critical in a fast-paced business environment.

3. The Rise of a New Generation of Procurement Leaders

“A wave of emerging talent has stepped into the chief procurement officer role, bringing fresh perspectives shaped by AI-driven strategies and fast-evolving market demands.”
— Jeff Collier, Chief Revenue Officer for Intelligent Spend and Business Network at SAP

Key Takeaway:

Procurement leadership is in transition, with professionals who proved themselves during the early 2020s now ascending to top roles. Their experiences during tumultuous market conditions prepared them to tackle everything from AI integration to robust sustainability programs. Expect these leaders to blend tech-savvy approaches with forward-thinking strategies that prioritize business resilience, social impact, and proactive risk management.

4. The Power of AI Across Business Networks

“No business operates in isolation, and AI’s predictive capabilities can now extend across entire supply chains, evolving from decision support to automated decision-making.”
— Val Blatt, Chief Revenue Officer for SAP Business Network

Key Takeaway:

Business networks are more connected than ever. With AI analyzing data across partners and suppliers, companies can anticipate disruptions, streamline logistics, and optimize inventory. The collective intelligence of an entire ecosystem becomes a strategic advantage, especially when disruptions occur. And as AI further matures, autonomous execution of certain processes may become a reality, making supply chains more resilient and agile.

5. The Evolution of Travel and Expense Management

“Following a period of rising travel costs and tighter budgets, many organizations now expect T&E spending to stretch further in 2025. Meanwhile, AI continues to reduce manual reviews and approvals.”
— Christopher Juneau, SVP and Head of SAP Concur Product Marketing

Key Takeaway:

T&E is undergoing a transformation, in large part due to AI. Automated expense reports, policy-based approvals, and predictive cost controls are simplifying employee travel while enhancing oversight. With increased focus on data security and privacy, companies are adopting T&E solutions that balance convenience with top-tier risk mitigation.

Looking Ahead in 2025

From AI-enabled procurement to fully orchestrated processes and next-generation talent, spend management is in the midst of a transformative year. By embracing these trends, organizations can foster more sustainable, resilient, and profitable operations.

At Lognow, we are at the forefront of these changes, continuing to implement solutions that empower businesses to navigate this rapidly shifting environment. We’re excited to partner with companies of all sizes in harnessing AI responsibly, streamlining processes, and maximizing visibility, all to thrive in the dynamic world of 2025 and beyond.

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