Level 4

Projects can be defined and delivered within different contexts, across diverse industry sectors. They can be large or small, but every project needs to be managed to ensure its success. An associate project manager knows what needs to be achieved, how it will be achieved, how long it will take and how much it will cost, and works with the project team to achieve the required outcomes. Associate project managers need good planning, organisation, leadership, management and communication skills. An associate project manager utilises resources with suitable skills, qualifications, experience and knowledge to work together in a motivated and integrated team, with clearly defined reporting lines, roles, responsibilities and authorities. Dependent upon the size of the organisations and the complexity of projects, associate project managers' job titles will vary, but typically they can include: assistant project manager, junior project manager, project team leader. Some organisations use 'project manager' as a generic job title.

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CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply qualification is designed for students with 2+ years relevant experience in a business environment.  It will help you develop the technical skills, knowledge and competencies employers are looking for.

There are eight CORE modules which make up the 60 required credits. These are as follows.

• Scope and Influence of Procurement and Supply
• Defining Business Need
• Commercial Contracting
• Ethical and Responsible Sourcing
• Commercial Negotiation
• Supplier Relationships
• Whole Life Asset Management
• Procurement and Supply in Practice

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The work of procurement and supply professionals includes the process of procurement, or buying goods and services; however, these roles can be much broader than just procurement.  They can extend to a huge range of related commercial activity such as influencing policy, financial analysis, engaging in contract law, and developing strategy to deliver services.

The Level 4 in Procurement and Supply will enable an individual to use their breadth and depth of experience to position themselves as a fully effective commercially skilled professional with transferable skills and career options that span the public, private and charitable sectors.

Typical job roles will include: Procurement Operations Support, Buyer, Assistant Buyer, Framework Management Support, Commercial Support, Commercial Analyst, Sourcing Executive.

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Foundation Certificate in Sustainability

Leading to Associate membership of IEMA, the professional body for sustainability professionals

There is no doubt that sustainability is becoming an increasingly significant and urgent issue for businesses and similar organisations. Individuals who understand it and are able to provide advice on how to improve organisational impacts are in short supply.

The IEMA Foundation Certificate in Environmental Management is the first step in developing your environmental and sustainability knowledge.

The course tutor is both a qualified accountant and an IEMA Fellow with recent commercial experience leading the sustainability agenda at a large

regional PLC with numerous award wins in environmental management.

The course will include a specific focus on the commercial imperatives and business case for sustainability

"Whether you're looking for quick and easy access to the information you need or you're looking to build a career in sustainability, IEMA's Associate membership is for you."

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Improvement Practitioners use a blend of Lean and Six Sigma, project and change management principles and tools to identify and lead the delivery of change across organisational functions and processes. Improvement Practitioners can be found across all sectors and functions including automotive, banking, engineering, food products, IT, property, retail, telecoms etc.

Typically, Practitioners lead smaller projects and/or play a key supporting role in a larger programme – tackling issues that may require swift problem solving, or re-occurring challenges that require in-depth analysis and the implementation of a range of effective and sustainable countermeasures. They are the focal point for all stakeholders and responsible for communication throughout a project. Typical activities include:

• Identifying potential opportunities, diagnosing issues, proposing solutions and implementing changes and controls
• Coaching teams and sharing best practice
• When leading projects they may manage small teams ensuring motivation and momentum, and be responsible for the successful

An Advanced Apprenticeship is a job with an accompanying skills development programme designed by employers in the sector. It allows you to gain technical knowledge and real practical experience while being paid to do so. Along with functional and personal skills that are needed for your immediate job and future career you will learn through a mix of project based learning in the workplace, formal off the job training, and the opportunity to practice and embed new skills in a real work context.

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