What is a procurement audit?

A procurement audit is a systematic and thorough evaluation of an organization’s procurement processes to ensure compliance with established policies and regulations. The purpose of a procurement audit is to assess whether the procurement activities are being conducted efficiently and effectively, aligning with the overall objectives of the organization.

By focusing on compliance, a procurement audit critically examines all aspects of the procurement process, including adherence to legal requirements, ethical standards, and organizational policies. This comprehensive assessment often includes analyzing documentation, interviewing staff, and reviewing procurement transactions to identify areas of improvement, risks, or potential misconduct.

This thorough approach distinguishes a procurement audit from less structured assessments or discussions that may not focus on compliance or detailed processes. For instance, casual reviews or non-formal discussions do not provide the depth and rigor required to truly understand and improve procurement practices. Similarly, a document check for supplier invoices, while part of the process, lacks the holistic and evaluative nature of an audit aimed at ensuring adherence to procurement policies.