The most important question a manager can ask is also important for CPOs since they are managers too. So, while you’re thinking about savings targets, perfect order percentages, and supplier risk, don’t forget to ask your employees:

What can I do to help you be more effective.

Even though the answers you will get at first may be irrelevant and along the lines of “I’m doing fine” and “Give me a raise”, once your employees understand that your goal is to remove barriers to their success, you will start to get real answers, and once you understand how you can make them more effective by breaking down organizational barriers, getting them the tools and data they need, and increasing their supply management skills, you will start to see more organizational success.