Purchasing and supply chain managers in the region expect revenue growth rates of more than 10% in the next year

CIPS members from a variety of industries were surveyed on their views on the future of the procurement and supply profession in the Middle East. More than fifty percent of the respondents anticipate a revenue growth bracket of more than ten percent over the next twelve months. This signifies the level of maturity that organizations have reached and the recognition of the benefits that training and effective procurement processes can have on the growth and success of their businesses.

The survey also highlighted the need to improve professional standards in the procurement and supply profession as an essential driver of growth. More than eighty percent of purchasing and supply chain professionals believe that investing in professional training and the education of staff is imperative to the growth of their business. Inevitably, this has created greater demand for CIPS training of professionally qualified managers who can control costs and build valuable partnerships with vital suppliers.

"The purchasing and supply chain profession has undergone major transformations over the last few years. Companies are beginning to recognise the pivotal role procurement plays in driving operational efficiency and growth" said Ken James, Chief Executive, CIPS.

"The conference is specifically tailored to help participants understand the challenges of operating in a complex environment providing them with the skills and approaches necessary for success."

This year the conference has attracted more procurement professionals from around the region. It is expected to provide a great networking opportunity for practitioners handling similar challenges and an occasion to learn and build on the success achieved by fellow practitioners.

An impressive line-up of international and regional expert speakers has been assembled to discuss the profession's latest trends and practices which include amongst others, Mr. Ken James, Chief Executive, CIPS, Mr. Saeed Mohammed, Senior Vice President, Procurement and Logistics, Emirates Airline, Mr. Saeed H M Al Ameri, Performance Management Manager, Zakum Development Company (ZADCO), Mr. Gerard Chick, Head of Knowledge Management, CIPS and Mr. Michael Campbell, Director Business Development, CIPS.

The conference will be held at the Shangri La from 21-22 October and it will be followed by an interactive post-summit workshop and MasterClass on 23 October titled 'The Procurement Cycle Workshop' and 'The MasterClass Executive Decisions'.