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Future Strategic Challenges for the Profession (L6M4)

Module purpose

This is a research based module and should be the last core module you complete. On completion of this module, you will be able to evaluate changing needs and requirements for procurement and supply and assess future challenges faced by the profession.

We will release the topic themes one month before the exam.

July 2025 exam theme

The theme for the July 2025 exam is Supply Chain Collaboration

Module aim(s)

The volatile global environment poses a threat to traditional concepts of international trade and presents strategic challenges to the procurement and supply function and profession. Strategic procurement and supply leaders require knowledge of the present challenges for their function and profession, and prepare themselves for the future strategic challenges that they will undoubtedly be faced with. This module is designed to challenge procurement and supply leaders to look ahead and to consider the future strategic challenges for them and their profession.

Studying and assessment for these modules is different and we strongly recommend that you take this as your final exam.

We also provide FREE access elearning for all students to help you to prepare for this exam.

Next steps

Joining a CIPS qualification programme means you will join the largest Institute in the world for those working in procurement and supply. You can join as a member online today. Once you've become a CIPS member you can book your examinations online.

Key Module Details

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Icon of the white letters CR in a purple circle, with the text

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Learning outcomes, assessment criteria and indicative content

1.1 Assess what the future strategic procurement and supply function will look like

Alignment with the organisation – internally, vertically and horizontally
Recognise and exploit supply chain opportunities
New approaches and requirements
such as:
Agility
Flexibility
Legality
Dealing with complexity - Supply Network Strategies
Interpreting the current approach to procurement
Formulating objectives on the supply side
Determine the basic network strategy
Calibrating the strategy
Restructuring the supply network
Proactive planning and design of supply networks – anticipate, respond and adapt
Risk vs. resilient supply chains and networks

1.2 Contrast the future skills and expectations of strategic procurement and supply leaders

Switching focus from internal operational to external customer interface
Functional knowledge
Interpersonal skills
General management and strategic skills – appreciate and promote the strategic value of procurement and supply
Internal and external relationship management
Ethical and sustainable management and leadership – environmental issues and challenges

1.3 Contrast the influence of emerging business and markets on the procurement and supply function

Volatile global environment – threatens traditional concepts of international trade
Wider influence on market identification, development and creation
Future risks and challenges

2.1 Evaluate the emerging role and influence ofinnovation and technology on the profession

Disruptive influence on traditional operations
Organisational uptake and leveraging opportunity
Automation and changing roles for the profession
Opportunities that arise and associated skills sets and challenges
The profession driving the agenda to realise value adding benefits and competitive edge

2.2 Assess the changing boundaries and shape of the profession

Stretch and blurring of boundaries between traditional organisational disciplines
New ways to achieve competitive advantage through the supply chain
Interdisciplinary working and knowledge
Growing influence of the profession
Collaborative and supportive – maintaining the standard
Advisors and guardians of the profession

2.3 Evaluate future challenges for the profession

The increased use of common business language across the organisation
Develop a greater understanding of other business functions
Develop and promote a greater understanding of the profession within other business functions
Broaden professional reach to add value where others cannot
Embed good practice through collaboration with other professions
Cross-skilling those from other disciplines

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Four core modules make up 42 of the required credits for this qualification, choose three elective modules to make up the 18 remaining credits