L6M1

The CIPS Level 6 Module 1 exam, typically titled "Strategic Procurement and Supply Chain Management," focuses on the strategic aspects of procurement and its contribution to organizational success. The main points typically covered include:

1. Strategic Procurement's Role and Contribution:

• Understanding the difference between operational and strategic procurement.
• Defining and explaining the strategic role of procurement within an organization.
• Analyzing the impact of procurement on organizational performance (cost reduction, risk management, innovation, etc.).
• Justifying the investment in strategic procurement initiatives.
• Understanding the relationship between procurement and other functional areas (e.g., finance, marketing, operations).

2. Strategic Supply Chain Management:

• Defining and explaining the concept of a supply chain.
• Analyzing different supply chain models and their suitability for different organizations.
• Understanding the key elements of effective supply chain management (e.g., supplier relationship management, logistics, risk management).
• The role of technology in supply chain management (e.g., ERP systems, blockchain).
• Identifying and managing risks within the supply chain.

3. Stakeholder Management:

• Identifying and analyzing key stakeholders in procurement and supply chain management.
• Developing effective communication and engagement strategies with stakeholders.
• Negotiation and influencing skills to manage stakeholder expectations.
• Understanding stakeholder interests and managing conflicting priorities.

4. Market Analysis and Supplier Selection:

• Conducting market research to identify potential suppliers.
• Developing effective supplier selection criteria and processes.
• Evaluating supplier performance and managing supplier relationships.
• Understanding different sourcing strategies (e.g., single sourcing, multiple sourcing).

5. Category Management:

• Understanding the principles of category management.
• Developing category strategies and implementing them.
• Managing category performance and identifying opportunities for improvement.

6. Contract Management:

• Developing and negotiating effective contracts.
• Managing contract performance and resolving disputes.
• Understanding different types of contracts and their suitability for different situations.

7. Ethical and Sustainable Procurement:

• Understanding the ethical considerations in procurement and supply chain management.
• Implementing sustainable procurement practices.
• Considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in procurement decisions.

8. Risk Management:

• Identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks in procurement and supply chain management.
• Developing contingency plans to deal with disruptions.
• Utilizing appropriate risk management tools and techniques.

It's crucial to review the official CIPS study materials and syllabus for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the specific topics covered in the L6M1 exam. The weighting of each topic may also vary slightly from year to year.