L6M7

The CIPS Level 6 Diploma in Procurement and Supply, Module 7 (often titled something like "Strategic Supply Chain Management" or a similar variation depending on the exam board and year), focuses on developing and implementing a robust and effective supply chain strategy aligned with organizational objectives. The main points typically covered include:

1. Strategic Supply Chain Planning & Design:

• Understanding the supply chain: This involves mapping the entire supply chain, identifying key stakeholders, and analyzing the flow of goods, services, and information. This includes understanding different supply chain models (e.g., agile, lean, responsive).
• Developing a strategic supply chain plan: This requires aligning the supply chain strategy with the overall business strategy, considering factors like risk, cost, and sustainability. This often involves scenario planning and forecasting.
• Supply chain design and optimisation: This includes decisions regarding sourcing, location of facilities, inventory management, transportation, and technology adoption to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Consideration of lean principles and Six Sigma methodologies.

2. Supply Chain Risk Management:

• Identifying and assessing supply chain risks: This includes analyzing potential disruptions (e.g., political instability, natural disasters, supplier failures) and their potential impact.
• Developing risk mitigation strategies: This involves implementing measures to reduce the likelihood and impact of risks, such as diversification of suppliers, redundancy planning, and contingency planning.
• Supply chain resilience: Building flexibility and adaptability into the supply chain to withstand disruptions and recover quickly. This includes building strong supplier relationships and robust processes.

3. Supply Chain Performance Measurement & Improvement:

• Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Understanding and applying relevant KPIs to monitor and measure supply chain performance (e.g., lead time, inventory turnover, customer satisfaction).
• Performance analysis and reporting: Using data analysis techniques to identify areas for improvement and track progress.
• Continuous improvement methodologies: Applying methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen to optimize supply chain processes.

4. Supply Chain Technology and Innovation:

• Impact of technology: Understanding the role of technology in improving efficiency, transparency, and collaboration within the supply chain (e.g., blockchain, AI, IoT).
• Digital supply chains: Exploring the concepts and applications of digital technologies to transform supply chain operations.
• Supply chain innovation: Identifying opportunities to innovate and improve the supply chain through new technologies, processes, and business models.

5. Sustainable and Ethical Supply Chains:

• Environmental sustainability: Understanding the environmental impact of supply chain activities and implementing strategies to reduce carbon footprint and waste.
• Social responsibility: Ensuring ethical sourcing, fair labor practices, and responsible procurement throughout the supply chain.
• Compliance and legislation: Adhering to relevant environmental, social, and ethical regulations and standards.

It's important to note that the specific weighting and emphasis on these topics might vary slightly depending on the specific exam paper and syllabus. You should always refer to the official CIPS study materials and past papers for the most accurate and up-to-date information.