Introduction:

Procurement and supply chain management are critical functions that ensure organizations acquire goods and services efficiently while maintaining optimal inventory and cost control. This training course provides participants with a foundational understanding of procurement processes, supply chain dynamics, and best practices. The course emphasizes modern tools, sustainability, and strategies to meet future challenges in an evolving global marketplace.

Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the procurement lifecycle and supply chain fundamentals.
2. Apply essential procurement and supply chain principles in their roles.
3. Identify cost-saving opportunities through effective vendor and supply management.
4. Leverage digital tools for streamlined procurement and supply chain processes.
5. Analyze and manage risks in procurement and supply chain operations.
6. Understand the importance of sustainability and ethical practices.
7. Align procurement strategies with organizational goals and market demands.

Who Should Attend?

This course is ideal for:

• Procurement Assistants and Officers
• Supply Chain Coordinators and Analysts
• Office Managers and Administrators
• Operations and Logistics Professionals
• Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs
• Individuals transitioning into procurement or supply chain roles

Day 1: Introduction to Procurement and Supply Chain Management

Morning Session:

• Overview of Procurement

  • Definition and importance of procurement
  • Procurement vs. purchasing: Key differences
  • Objectives of procurement: Cost, quality, and time

• Basics of Supply Chain Management (SCM)

  • Understanding the supply chain process
  • Key components: Suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and customers
  • The role of logistics in the supply chain

Afternoon Session:

• The Procurement and Supply Chain Ecosystem

  • Internal and external stakeholders in procurement
  • Aligning procurement and supply chain with organizational strategy
  • Key challenges in modern procurement and SCM

• Interactive Workshop:

  • Mapping a simple supply chain for a hypothetical product

Day 2: Procurement Processes and Best Practices

Morning Session:

• The Procurement Lifecycle

  • Stages: Identifying needs, sourcing, negotiation, contracting, and payment
  • Creating and managing purchase orders (POs)
  • Supplier evaluation and selection criteria

• Strategic Sourcing

  • Importance of market research in sourcing decisions
  • Building and managing supplier relationships
  • Negotiation strategies for cost and value

Afternoon Session:

• Procurement Documentation and Policies

  • Key documents: RFQs, RFPs, and contracts
  • Ensuring compliance with procurement policies and regulations
  • Recordkeeping for audit readiness

• Hands-On Activity:

  • Drafting an RFP and evaluating supplier proposals

Day 3: Supply Chain Operations and Logistics

Morning Session:

• Inventory Management Basics

  • Types of inventory: Raw materials, WIP, and finished goods
  • Techniques for inventory control: EOQ, JIT, and ABC analysis
  • Balancing inventory levels to minimize costs

• Logistics and Distribution

  • Modes of transportation: Advantages and limitations
  • Managing warehousing and distribution networks
  • Optimizing last-mile delivery

Afternoon Session:

• Risk Management in Supply Chains

  • Identifying potential risks in supply chain operations
  • Mitigating risks through contingency planning
  • Case studies: Supply chain disruptions and lessons learned

• Practical Exercise:

  • Developing a risk management plan for a supply chain scenario

Day 4: Tools, Technology, and Sustainability in Procurement and Supply Chains

Morning Session:

• Digital Tools for Procurement and SCM

  • Overview of procurement software: SAP Ariba, Coupa, Oracle Procurement
  • Leveraging ERP systems for integrated supply chain management
  • Automation and AI in procurement processes

• Data-Driven Supply Chain Decisions

  • Using data analytics for demand forecasting
  • Real-time tracking with IoT and RFID
  • Visualizing supply chain data with dashboards

Afternoon Session:

• Sustainable and Ethical Procurement

  • Importance of sustainability in procurement practices
  • Incorporating ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) principles
  • Sourcing ethically: Avoiding conflict materials and unfair labor

• Case Study:

  • Analyzing a company’s sustainable procurement strategy

Day 5: Procurement and Supply Chain Strategy and Future Trends

Morning Session:

• Aligning Procurement with Organizational Goals

  • Procurement as a strategic function
  • Setting KPIs for procurement and supply chain performance
  • Collaboration across departments for effective SCM

• Global Supply Chains and Market Dynamics

  • Navigating global sourcing challenges
  • Adapting to market trends and geopolitical influences
  • Managing supply chains in a post-pandemic world

Afternoon Session:

• Future Trends in Procurement and SCM

  • AI, blockchain, and automation shaping the future
  • Preparing for supply chain resilience and agility
  • Circular supply chains and waste reduction

• Final Assessment and Wrap-Up

  • Group project: Developing a procurement and supply chain strategy for a given scenario
  • Review of key concepts and actionable takeaways
  • Certification of Completion.