Latest news with #CIPS
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
UAE Space Agency sets global standard with third CIPS Ethics Kitemark award
Abu Dhabi, UAE: The UAE Space Agency has been awarded the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Ethics Kitemark for the third consecutive year, maintaining its distinction as the world's first space agency to receive this international honour. The CIPS Ethics Kitemark is a globally respected standard that recognises organisations and individuals committed to upholding the highest principles of ethical behaviour and integrity in procurement and supply chain management. To be awarded the Kitemark, organisations must demonstrate that staff have completed annual ethics training and that CIPS' globally recognised code of ethics has been adopted and embedded into procurement policies and procedures. This certification reflects the UAE Space Agency's strategic commitment to transparency, good governance and global best practice as it continues to grow its role as a leader in space exploration and scientific innovation. By aligning procurement activities with international standards, the Agency is ensuring that its supplier partnerships are fair, accountable and sustainable, and that public trust is maintained in every aspect of its operations. Commenting on the achievement, Sam Achampong, Regional Director, CIPS MENA, said: 'Ethical procurement is the foundation of public trust and long-term organisational success. The UAE Space Agency's commitment to ethics, transparency, and professionalism sets a powerful example for both the public sector and the global space community. We are proud to recognise the Agency's leadership with the CIPS Ethics Kitemark for a third consecutive year.' The Ethics Kitemark also contributes to building internal capability, helping organisations identify and mitigate risk, prevent unethical conduct, and improve procurement outcomes. It is increasingly seen as a mark of assurance for stakeholders, partners, and international collaborators. In addition to its focus on ethical practice, the UAE Space Agency has invested in developing the skills and competencies of its procurement team. This includes professional development pathways such as the MCIPS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) qualification, a globally recognised standard of procurement excellence. Maha Al Mansoori, Director of the Support Services Department at the UAE Space Agency, said: 'As we pursue ambitious goals in science, technology and space exploration, we recognise that integrity must remain central to how we operate. Achieving the CIPS Ethics Kitemark for the third year running is not only a testament to our team's dedication, but also a reflection of our commitment to responsible procurement that aligns with the values of the UAE Government. We are proud to lead the way for ethical sourcing in the space sector globally.' For more information about the UAE Space Agency, visit: To learn more about the CIPS Ethics Kitemark, visit: About CIPS We are CIPS, the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply. A global membership organisation driving positive change across our profession. We are the voice and standard, defining and amplifying best practice across all our worlds. As the awarding body for the profession, we lead in education and training. Helping professionals advance their ambition. We provide insights, information, and tools. Enabling members to develop their own best practice. We help build capability within organisations. Interrogating, troubleshooting, and training. Through all our work, we build a community. A global network of professionals powering procurement and supply so our societies can thrive. Find out more at:
Mid East Info
29-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE Space Agency sets global standard with third CIPS Ethics Kitemark award - Middle East Business News and Information
First space agency globally to achieve the prestigious ethical procurement certification The UAE Space Agency has been awarded the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Ethics Kitemark for the third consecutive year, maintaining its distinction as the world's first space agency to receive this international honour. The CIPS Ethics Kitemark is a globally respected standard that recognises organisations and individuals committed to upholding the highest principles of ethical behaviour and integrity in procurement and supply chain management. To be awarded the Kitemark, organisations must demonstrate that staff have completed annual ethics training and that CIPS' globally recognised code of ethics has been adopted and embedded into procurement policies and procedures. This certification reflects the UAE Space Agency's strategic commitment to transparency, good governance and global best practice as it continues to grow its role as a leader in space exploration and scientific innovation. By aligning procurement activities with international standards, the Agency is ensuring that its supplier partnerships are fair, accountable and sustainable, and that public trust is maintained in every aspect of its operations. Commenting on the achievement, Sam Achampong, Regional Director, CIPS MENA, said: 'Ethical procurement is the foundation of public trust and long-term organisational success. The UAE Space Agency's commitment to ethics, transparency, and professionalism sets a powerful example for both the public sector and the global space community. We are proud to recognise the Agency's leadership with the CIPS Ethics Kitemark for a third consecutive year.' The Ethics Kitemark also contributes to building internal capability, helping organisations identify and mitigate risk, prevent unethical conduct, and improve procurement outcomes. It is increasingly seen as a mark of assurance for stakeholders, partners, and international collaborators. In addition to its focus on ethical practice, the UAE Space Agency has invested in developing the skills and competencies of its procurement team. This includes professional development pathways such as the MCIPS (Member of the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) qualification, a globally recognised standard of procurement excellence. Maha Al Mansoori, Director of the Support Services Department at the UAE Space Agency, said: 'As we pursue ambitious goals in science, technology and space exploration, we recognise that integrity must remain central to how we operate. Achieving the CIPS Ethics Kitemark for the third year running is not only a testament to our team's dedication, but also a reflection of our commitment to responsible procurement that aligns with the values of the UAE Government. We are proud to lead the way for ethical sourcing in the space sector globally.'
Arab News
14-05-2025
- Business
- Arab News
SAB first in Kingdom to earn CIPS Gold Award
The recognition highlights SAB's leadership and ongoing commitment to embedding global standards in procurement and supply chain practices. Saudi Awwal Bank, one of the Kingdom's leading financial institutions, has become the first Saudi entity and the 11th worldwide to be awarded the Gold Certification from the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply under its global Procurement Excellence Programme. This recognition highlights SAB's leadership and ongoing commitment to embedding global standards in procurement and supply chain practices. It reflects the bank's strategic focus on governance, ethical sourcing, and sustainable procurement, all central to SAB's broader vision of operational excellence and innovation. The Gold Award is one of the highest levels of certification offered by CIPS and is awarded to organizations that demonstrate robust procurement leadership, effective integration across the business, and strong performance management aligned with global best practices. Ghada Al-Jarbou, chief operating officer at SAB, said: 'The CIPS Advanced Gold Certification validates the strength of our procurement transformation. It reflects our focus on building robust governance, enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring our procurement function supports long-term innovation and resilience. This achievement demonstrates SAB's commitment to operational excellence and strategic growth, which in turn strengthens our ability to deliver sustainable value to our employees, customers and shareholders.' Ben Farrell, CIPS CEO, said: 'This is a proud moment for SAB and a milestone for the wider procurement profession in the Kingdom. SAB's achievement of the CIPS Gold Award is a clear indication of its commitment to placing procurement at the center of business strategy and transformation. This award recognizes SAB's excellence in governance, strategic alignment, and operational delivery.' The CIPS Procurement Excellence Programme is an internationally recognized framework used by public and private sector organizations worldwide to benchmark, assess and enhance their procurement functions. It evaluates performance across leadership, strategy, people, process, and systems — providing a roadmap for continuous improvement.
Mid East Info
11-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Ministry of Finance Clinches Three Excellence in Procurement & Supply Awards 2025 - Middle East Business News and Information
Ministry awarded 'Overall Winner,' 'Best Collaborative Teamwork Project,' and 'Sustainable Procurement Project of the Year Award' H.E. Mariam Al Amiri: 'We are committed to developing a flexible work environment built on cross-functional integration and innovative solutions' Adding yet another feather to its cap, the Ministry of Finance has clinched three Excellence in Procurement & Supply Awards 2025 from the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply (CIPS). The awards were in recognition of the Ministry's leading practices in procurement and supply chain management within the government's digital procurement system. The achievement has been made possible thanks to the Ministry's ongoing efforts to modernize institutional workflows, implement world-class procurement standards, and incorporate sustainability principles into government operations. Competing against government, semi-government, and private sector entities from across the MENA region and the world, the Ministry's win will further enhance confidence in the federal government's policies, procedures, and systems and affirm their alignment with innovative global standards and their strong international competitiveness. The awards were received on behalf of the Ministry by Her Excellency Mariam Mohammed Hassan Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary of Government Finance Management at the Ministry of Finance. Responsible Procurement Practices: H.E. Mariam Mohammed Hassan Al Amiri emphasised that winning the Procurement and Supply Excellence Awards reflects the Ministry's commitment to developing a modern, agile organisational environment that prioritises integration and innovation while adhering to international best practices in procurement management. ' The Ministry of Finance's teams have worked relentlessly to turn strategic objectives into actionable initiatives,' she said. This has led to creating an effective procurement system that enhances spending efficiency and delivers value for money. Her Excellency added: 'CIPS Awards are among the most prestigious global honours in the field, and winning three of them reaffirms that our approach to strengthening our global position through transparency and sustainability is paying off. We will continue to develop the capabilities of our teams and expand institutional partnerships to improve wise procurement practices and leverage them as a strategic tool to support sustainable development.' Award categories: Among the honours, the Ministry received the distinguished title of 'Overall Winner,', which recognises outstanding excellence in procurement and supply chain management. The category evaluates a wide range of criteria, including the adoption of advanced digital systems, artificial intelligence applications, and e-procurement platforms, as well as forward-looking policies, sustainability and governance standards, and the responsible use of public funds . Presented by the CIPS, the award demonstrates the Ministry's integrated approach to procurement, its commitment to digital governance, and its success in driving strategic alignment across federal entities . The Ministry was also honoured with the Best Collaborative Teamwork Project award, which highlights initiatives delivered through effective role distribution and cross-functional cooperation. This accolade recognises procurement teams that achieve impactful results, such as sourcing innovation or process improvements, through strong internal and external partnerships. Rounding out the trio, the Ministry earned the Sustainable Procurement Project of the Year Award, honouring initiatives with significant positive impacts on environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and corporate governance. This award recognises the ministry's leadership in driving procurement projects that contribute meaningfully to these areas, whether led by procurement teams or as part of organisational efforts, emphasising the pivotal role of supply chain management in achieving sustainable development goals. Founded in the United Kingdom, the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) is one of the world's leading organisations specialising in procurement and supply chain management. With a membership of over 70,000 professionals across 180 countries, CIPS brings together specialists and decision-makers from both the public and private sectors, as well as technical systems companies specialising in procurement. The Institute dedicates its efforts to sustainability, digital transformation, and competency development within the procurement field, further solidifying its role as a strategic partner to governments and institutions worldwide.
Zawya
09-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Relationship building in African procurement is key to economic growth and resilience
As Africa's economies evolve, procurement is quietly taking centre stage as one of the continent's most powerful drivers of growth and development. Public procurement alone accounts for an average of 17% of GDP across African countries, underpinning infrastructure projects, public services, and national progress, according to the World Bank (2023). While the sector's economic influence is undeniable, it's also undergoing significant transformation in both value and capability. In 2022, the procurement analytics market across the Middle East and Africa generated $178m (approximately R3.36bn), with forecasts predicting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.2% through 2030 (Grand View Research). The region's retail sourcing and procurement market is also set to surpass R510m (around R9.64bn) by 2030, spurred by the demand for fast, tech-driven procurement strategies. But beyond the numbers and digital shifts, a quieter and equally important movement is gaining momentum — one centred on the strength of human connection and relationships that continue to shape procurement's future on the continent. The power of human connection 'Procurement is no longer just about transactions,' says Paul Vos, CIPS Southern Africa general manager. 'It's about creating value through partnerships. In today's complex environment, the strength of your supplier and stakeholder relationships can determine your entire supply chain's success—or failure.' This is especially true in a world where geopolitical tensions, trade disruptions, and supply chain uncertainties are becoming more frequent and more complex. From energy and commodity markets to logistics networks, procurement professionals are under mounting pressure to maintain continuity and performance in an unpredictable environment. "Strong supplier relationships become a form of strategic insurance," Vos adds. "In a volatile global landscape, it's those relationships that provide the flexibility and foresight needed to navigate disruption and still deliver results." Collaboration as competitive edge Across Africa, procurement leaders increasingly embrace collaboration, transparency, and long-term engagement as not just ethical ideals but strategic differentiators. Relationship-building is no longer a soft skill but a core driver of risk mitigation, supplier innovation, and sustainable growth. Research published in the African Journal of Procurement, Logistics and Supply Chain Management highlights a strong link between supplier relationship management (SRM) and improved organisational performance, especially in public procurement, where accountability, continuity, and trust are critical (AJOL, 2024). Similar findings on the role of SRM in boosting operational resilience are echoed in recent academic work published on ResearchGate. Vos says this relationship-led approach is already changing procurement outcomes on the continent. "In healthcare, for instance, closer cooperation between public agencies and private suppliers has helped improve the distribution of essential medicines. Long-term supplier partnerships in the energy and mining sectors enable companies to navigate fluctuating markets and logistical pressures with greater stability and confidence." Trust as a competitive advantage He adds that trust must be cultivated intentionally. "Trust doesn't appear overnight—it's earned through transparency, consistency, and mutual respect. Procurement professionals who build that trust gain a clear advantage when disruption hits." Recent global crises—notably the Covid-19 pandemic and widespread port congestion in West and Southern Africa—offered clear evidence. Organisations with stronger supplier relationships were able to activate local networks, diversify sourcing quickly, and maintain operations under pressure, while those relying on rigid or siloed contracts struggled to adapt. Technology is enhancing these dynamics rather than replacing them. AI-powered supplier scorecards, blockchain-enabled procurement systems, and cloud-based collaboration platforms are making it easier to track performance, share information, and deepen supplier engagement. "Digital transformation is a critical enabler," says Vos. "But it works best when it supports a strong foundation of human relationships. Data can tell you what's happening in your supply chain, but only trust and collaboration can drive the strategic responses needed to stay competitive." One major benefit of strong relationships is accelerated innovation. In sectors such as telecommunications and agriculture, organisations that engage suppliers in early-stage planning and design improve time-to-market, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. "When you treat suppliers as true partners, they're more willing to bring new ideas to the table," Vos explains. "That's how you unlock innovation—not through pressure, but collaboration." Diversity also shapes how procurement teams build and maintain these partnerships. The increasing presence of women in procurement leadership strengthens relationship-driven approaches and contributes to a more values-based culture. Recognising this, CIPS Africa will launch the new She Inspires Award at the upcoming CIPS Africa Conference & Awards 2025 to celebrate women driving excellence across the profession. "Women-led procurement teams are often at the forefront of sustainability, social procurement, and ethical sourcing," says Vos. "We want to celebrate that impact and create platforms where more women can lead, influence and inspire across the profession." These ideas will form the core of the discussion at the CIPS Africa Conference & Awards 2025, set for 6–7 August at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg. Under the theme "Connect & Engage", the event will explore how stronger connections between buyers and suppliers, public and private sectors, and professionals across borders can unlock new levels of procurement excellence. 'This year's conference is not just about learning—it's about connecting,' Vos says. 'It's a space for procurement professionals to share, collaborate, and build the kind of relationships that will define the future of our industry.' All rights reserved. © 2022. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
