CIPS conference brings international standards of training to the region

Gathering from across the world, purchasing and supply consultants from major blue-chip organizations shared their experience and knowledge in a series of seminars during the two-day event.

Ken James, Chief Executive at CIPS said,

"The fact that the business of procurement and supply in the Middle East is now warranting its own, dedicated annual conference is testament to the rapid growth of business to business purchasing within both the public and private sectors. It is imperative that professionals have a full understanding of the scope and capabilities of procurement, and this Conference is a perfect opportunity to meet with like-minded consultants, while learning about new developments and successful case histories."

The conference, chaired by Dr. Richard Russill, Fellow of The Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, brought together a host of senior procurement experts from both the UK and the Middle Eastern region. International speakers included Andrea Reynolds, Director at Cordie Ltd, Graham Collins, Managing Director, ProQuest Consulting and Erkan Gulac, Pre-Sales Director at SAP Arabia.

Complimenting the internationally based speakers was a number of regional experts who represent companies at the forefront of purchasing and supply chain management in the region. Middle East experts included Saeed H M Al-Ameri, Performance Management Manager, Zakum Development Company, Saeed Mohammed, Senior Vice President, Procurement and Logistics, Emirates Airline, UAE and Ihab Hashwa, Consulting Services, Tejari, UAE.

Panel discussions on topics such as challenges faced by procurement, strategic sourcing and supplier relationship management were followed by case study presentations from organizations who demonstrated how promoting effective procurement processes has positively contributed to the success of their business, sharing insights into the implementation of an effective procurement system and the factors required to make it a success.

Michael Campbell, Director of Business Development at CIPS said "We have been working in the middle-east for some considerable time now, working with organisations who are striving to put in place standards of excellence in procurement. The profession is growing rapidly and there is a real need for a better understanding and greater knowledge of this topic to ensure organisations can continue to reap the benefits that excellent procurement can offer.'