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Certified Purchasing Professional & Certified Professional Purchasing Manager

Introduction

The American Purchasing Society individual purchasing certification program was started in 1970 by a group of businessmen who recognized the need for improved integrity in business and improved competence in the purchasing function. Certification of qualified purchasing professionals is one of the primary goals of the Society.

The APS individual certification program was the first program for purchasing professionals. The program has been continually improved since its inception. Other organizations have realized the value of the American Purchasing Society program and have instituted programs of their own, but the APS program is the best because it stresses the importance of integrity and practical on the job knowledge. There are now APS certified professionals throughout the nation and even in foreign countries. Certified purchasing professionals are selected over other candidates as position requirements have become more demanding.

Objectives of the Program

• To promote recognition and acceptance of professional status for certified people involved in purchasing operations among other areas of business management.
   
• To develop performance standards and operational guidelines which can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of purchasing.
   
• To develop and live by a code of ethical standards for purchasing operations under which modern business practices might be more clearly understood and favorably accepted by the public in general.
   
• To increase the degree to which the individual gains personal confidence, satisfaction, and pride from direct involvement in purchasing operations.

Who is Eligible?

Certification candidacy is open to all persons in purchasing, materials management or in an executive position who are members of the American Purchasing Society or who work for a company that holds a valid membership in the Society. All members are encouraged to apply for certification although certification is not necessary to maintain a membership.

Prerequisite for eligibility for certification is a minimum of three years business experience OR a degree from a recognized college plus two years of business experience. Additionally, applicants must meet the requirements outlined herein. In special circumstances, certification may be awarded to an individual who has not met the minimum requirements of formal education, but who has contributed significantly to the profession and who meets all other requirements.

Requirements for Certification

Applicants for certification are first evaluated on their ethical standards and maturity as demonstrated by their reputation and their ability to communicate. Next, a review of their academic achievements, experience and contributions to the purchasing profession if made to award points in each of these categories. Finally, the applicant must take an examination that measures his or her familiarity with professional purchasing techniques. Applicants for the CPP must take an 80 question (multiple choice) examination. If they pass this examination, they shall receive a total of 30 points. Applicants for the CPPM must satisfactorily complete the CPP examination, after which they must take an 80 question (multiple choice) examination on management and supervision. If they pass this examination, they shall receive a total of 30 points. A minimum of 100 points (one examination) is required for the Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) classification. A minimum of 130 points (two examinations) is required for the Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM) classification. An applicant may apply directly for the CPP, or both the CPP and CPPM. See the APS point guide to estimate your standing.

CPP and CPPM Certification Preparation

1st Day

Identifying Requirements

Establish procurement plans and make decisions necessary to purchase products or services in congruence with organizational objectives and sourcing strategies.

Review purchase requisitions in accordance with organizational requirements and/or budgetary constraints.

Determine appropriate methods of procurement.

Perform cost/benefit analyses on planned acquisitions.

Review supplier samples and/or demonstrations with the buying organization management and/or user departments.

Develop/review specifications, statements of work, performance terms, and/or acceptance criteria.

2nd Day

Preparation of Solicitations and Supplier Analysis

Locate and select potential sources of materials or services.

Prepare and solicit competitive bids, quotations, and proposals with pertinent specifications, terms, and conditions.

Manage and develop lists of recommended sources.

Evaluate competitive offerings to determine the overall best offer for a product/service.

Conduct supplier visits/evaluations to determine suitability.

Measure supplier performance using rating systems and/or predetermined standards.

3rd Day

Contract Execution, Implementation, and Administration

Prepare and/or issue contracts/purchase orders.

Obtain legal review and approval of a contract when required.

Administer contracts/purchase orders from award to completion.

Expedite deliveries and conduct follow-up procedures when necessary.

Resolve contract/purchase order differences with suppliers.

Resolve payment problems with suppliers and user departments.

Review and revise purchasing procedures to ensure their conformance with established laws, policies, and ethical principles.

Manage files of agreements, equipment records, and/or specifications.

4th Day

Negotiations and Information Technology

Prepare for and develop strategies and tactics for negotiations.

Conduct negotiations with potential and/or current suppliers to obtain maximum value.

Develop/utilize a computerized purchasing system (e.g., online buying, EDI, Web-based electronic commerce).

Develop/implement/maintain a database of specifications, suppliers, products, and/or services.

Develop/utilize a computerized inventory and/or capital equipment tracking system.

5th Day

Quality Issues and Internal Relationships

Resolve quality problems with suppliers and user departments.

Develop measurements of quality improvement and target setting (e.g., “best in class” benchmarks).

Develop/manage/evaluate relationships with other internal departments.

Participate in cross-functional and/or multifunctional teams (e.g., project management, process improvement).

Recommend/implement changes to the organization's purchasing, supply management, and material usage policies as needed.

Disseminate information and provide training related to purchasing and supply management policies and procedures.

6th Day

External Relationships, Preparing for the Examination, and Taking the Examination

Course Critique, and Review of Questions Likely to be on the Examination

Develop/manage effective relationships with suppliers, utilizing such techniques as supplier partnerships, strategic alliances, supply chain management, and supplier training programs.

Review product availability and/or pricing information with suppliers.

Conduct interviews with current and prospective supplier sales personnel.

Coordinate/review/respond to supplier inquiries, protests, and appeals.

Represent the buying organization in meetings with corporations, government agencies, professional associations, media, and other organizations.

Preparing for the certification examination:

• What to Study

• How to Study

• How long to prepare

• Practice taking examinations

• The Day Before the examination

• The Day of the examination

Taking the examination:

A. Types of questions.

Construction of questions.

Guessing is OK, but eliminate the obvious.

Use a calculator!!

Put numbers to the words.

Have several pencils already sharpened or bring 2 mechanical pencils.

Bring some tea or coffee to drink.

Go out for lunch if you take both morning and afternoon tests.

Review of areas likely to be tested on the examination.

Course critique sheets completed.

Examination:

Completion of the certification program requires completion of a multiple choice examination. The examination is prepared by a Board of Examiners consisting of a range of Certified, Sustaining, and Educator Members within International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute and American Purchasing Society.

Professional Designations

Successful candidates are granted the designation of CPP and CPPM. The designations may be used just as similar recognitions are employed in purchasing, logistics, supply chain management and other professions. Either the full expression or the initials may be used after the individual's name on business cards, stationery, etc.

Course Textbooks

CPP Study Guide (Available in Chinese from Beijing Modern Management Technology Exchange Center )

Purchasing Handbook (Available in Chinese from Beijing Modern Management Technology Exchange Center )

Powerpoint Lectures (most of which Management Technology Exchange Center )

Purchasing Handbook (Available in Chinese from Beijing Modern Management Technology Exchange Center )

Powerpoint Lectures (most of which have been translated into Chinese)

For CPPM