Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply
The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) is a United Kingdom-based international organisation working for the purchasing and supply professions. It promotes good practice and provides services for the benefit of members and the wider business community.
CIPS aims to promote and develop high standards of professional skill, ability, and integrity among all those engaged in purchasing and supply chain management. Its headquarters are located in Easton on the Hill, near Stamford, Lincolnshire.
Professional Certification Programmes
The professional qualifications programs include:[1]
CIPS have designed a level based qualification program:
- Professional diploma in procurement and supply (CIPS level 6)
- Advanced diploma in procurement and supply (CIPS level 5)
- Diploma in procurement and supply (CIPS level 4)
- Advanced certificate in procurement and supply operations (CIPS level 3)
- Certificate in procurement and supply operations (CIPS level 2)
Upon completion of the professional diploma, candidates can become full member (MCIPS). Higher status can also be achieved through recommendation and achievement in the form of a fellowship (FCIPS).
The exam format for Level 2 and Level 3 is based on multiple choice exams.
The exam format for Level 4 - Level 6 is based on 3 hour written theory exam format.
The program was redesigned and modified in 2013 to incorporate the latest developments in the procurement profession.
CIPS Worldwide
- CIPS Australasia[2]
Publications
The institute's official magazine is Supply Management, published monthly by Redactive Media Group. There is also a quarterly title aimed at more senior procurement and supply chain professionals called Supply Business.