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CIPS Level 3 Certificate in Purchasing and Supply

This introductory course from the leading industry body will guide you through the decisions and strategies that underlie purchasing and supply chain management. You'll be looking at the integral role it plays in successful business management, and the growing need for purchasing that demonstrates corporate social responsibility. The course covers all the key skills and gives you a broad understanding of the processes involved, including purchasing situations, establishment and maintenance of supplier relationships, and control of supply. Find out just how you can develop a career in this fascinating and vital aspect of business.

What will I study?

  • Understanding the Purchasing Environment

Consider the impact of the external national and international business environment upon the purchasing function in a range of different organisations and sectors. Consider the skills and duties of purchasing professionals.

  • Purchasing Operations

Consider the broad variety of purchasing activities, including the operational objectives of purchasing and the need to balance considerations of cost, lead-time and quality. Learn the key principles of purchasing.

  • Client and Supplier Relationships

Consider the nature and scope of operational supplier relationships and how to optimise the performance of key suppliers. Learn how to act as an internal consultant representing the purchasing function. Improve your communication and information seeking skills, and gain the ability to contribute towards improving purchasing efficiency.

  • Securing Supply

Gain a wide understanding of the requirements of controlling the supply of goods. Study the importance of stores and warehouse management, along with materials handling. Discover how to contribute towards the assessment of stock requirements and assist in the scheduling of the flow of supplies. Consider the implications of effective scheduling of stock and the importance of inventory control as a method of improving efficiency.

  • Purchasing in Action

Understand how the purchasing function can make a difference by being involved at an early stage, from identification of need through to contract negotiation. Consider how purchasing can improve operational efficiency through effective management practices. Understand the importance of internal and external analysis. Examine the various methods available for securing supply.

Study with ICS in association with Hays
International Correspondence Schools Ltd (ICS) is the world's largest and most experienced distance learning organisation.  ICS is a pioneer in teaching skills by home study, presenting the opportunity to learn while earning and to relate study to everyday work. ICS-Hays-logos.jpg
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