The UNDP/CIPS Advanced Practitioner Applied Learning Programme is conducted in virtual classroom, Panama City, Panama Time (UTC-5), starting on the 10th September 2026 with Programme Induction. 

• Induction – Orientation to CIPS resources and programme structure.
• Pre-work – e-Learning, articles, and quizzes to embed key concepts before workshops.
• Workshops – Tutor-led sessions using case studies, exercises, and group discussions.
• Assignments – Assessed written work after each module, building toward practical application.
• Business Project – A 10,000-word capstone project with dedicated 1-to-1 support from CIPS tutors.
• Project Surgeries – Personalised virtual sessions guiding learners through the business project phase.

Programme Schedule is below.

Module 1: Leadership and Management in Procurement and Supply

This module focuses on developing strategic leadership and management capabilities within procurement and supply functions.

Key Content Areas:

• Differences between leadership and management
• Behavioural skills, motivation, and effective team leadership
• Human resource management and ethical practices
• Applying leadership to improve procurement performance

Module 2: Commercial Management in Procurement and Supply

Explores the concept of global commercial strategy and tools to manage complex global supply chains.

Key Content Areas:​

• Global commercial strategy and its implementation
• Addressing global supply chain challenges
• Financial aspects affecting procurement decisions
• Regulatory compliance and value creation

Module 3: Global Strategic Supply Chain Management

Focuses on optimising global supply chains through sourcing strategies, logistics, and performance improvement.

Key Content Areas:​

• Global sourcing and network design
• Logistics and distribution strategies
• Risk, sustainability and optimisation in global supply chains
• Measuring and enhancing supply chain performance

Module 4: Category Management

Examines category management as a strategic approach to procurement capable of delivering long-term benefits.

Key Content Areas:

• ​Strategic sourcing and category management models
• Managing segmentation and expenditure
• Utilising supply market data for strategic decisions
• Implementing category management processes

Module 5: Contract Management

Covers the full lifecycle of contract management, from development to post-award performance.

Key Content Areas:​

• Pre-award contract creation and key clauses
• Risk management and remedies for non-performance
• Post-award contract execution and change management
• Supplier relationship and performance improvement

Module 6: Programme and Change Management in Procurement and Supply

Focuses on managing change, projects, and programmes to drive procurement transformation.

Key Content Areas:

• ​Change management principles and strategies
• Project and programme planning and execution
• Evaluating contracting and financial options
• Impact of projects on supply relationships and cost efficiency

Developing a Sustainable Public Procurement Action Plan

This session is designed to guide participants through best practices in Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP), drawing on key principles from internationally recognised frameworks such as ISO 20400 – the global standard for sustainable procurement.

Key Content Areas:

• ​Overview of ISO 20400 Sustainable Procurement guidelines
• Aligning procurement strategy with environmental, social and economic goals
• Integrating sustainability into procurement processes and decision-making
• Engaging stakeholders and managing supply chain risks
• Measuring and reporting on sustainable procurement performance

This session provides participants with the opportunity to develop a tailored Sustainable Procurement Action Plan for their organisation. The plan is designed to be practical, directly applicable, and a foundation for driving real, measurable impact through responsible procurement practices.