A strategic approach to procurement can give organisations a competitive advantage by maximising benefits received in return for spend. Procurement has taken on greater strategic importance in multinational companies in recent years. Procurement is in fact an absolutely essential function within any business and is vital if a business is to succeed, especially in the light of economic downturns and the recession. Many decisions taken by departments have a procurement implication that can impact on the overall cost of carrying out the decision. Procurement is viewed as a strategic function working to improve the organization’s profitability. Procurement is seen as helping to streamline processes, reduce raw material prices and costs, and identifying better sources of supply. In essence, helping to reduce the ‘bottom line’.

This course is suitable for staff of all grades that require knowledge and skills in operation or management of procurement. This also extends to other department personnel who have some purchasing responsibilities and would like to increase their knowledge and skills in this area.