Supplier Management

This Advanced Level Test focuses on key aspects of procurement and supplier relationship management (SRM). It is designed for professionals in the procurement field, aiming to evaluate their understanding and strategic approach towards purchasing, supplier evaluation, sourcing strategies, and contract management.

Key Areas Covered:

• Supplier Relationship Management (SRM): Questions assess knowledge of managing supplier performance, developing collaborative relationships, and categorising suppliers on their importance and complexity.
• Procurement Strategies and Sourcing: The test covers various sourcing strategies (like centralised purchasing, multiple sourcing, sole sourcing), strategic sourcing practices, and the importance of value-based sourcing over price-based approaches.
• Contract and Supplier Evaluation: Questions focus on the importance of contract management, ensuring compliance to terms, using supplier performance scorecards, and understanding total cost of ownership.
• Purchasing Management Techniques: The assessment includes topics such as e-procurement, e-sourcing, procurement cards, and the make or buy decision process.
• Supplier Negotiation and Selection: Questions evaluate the understanding of negotiation strategies, selection criteria beyond price (like sustainability practices), and methods like reverse auctions and request for quotations (RFQ).
• Supplier Audits and Risk Management: Supplier audits, risk assessment in procurement, and the importance of supplier development programs is also covered.
• Legal and Ethical Compliance: It includes aspects of compliance in procurement processes, emphasising the importance of ethical practices and legal requirements.
• Category and Vendor Management: Questions assess the understanding of category management, the role of vendor management in procurement, and the importance of performance improvement plans for suppliers.

Overall this test identifies candidates with advanced procurement expertise, focusing on strategic sourcing, contract management, and supplier relationships. It is tailored for procurement managers, supply chain specialists, and professionals involved in strategic sourcing and supplier development.