Procurement Training Programs
Why Implement Procurement Training Programs?
As procurement transforms beyond cost from a reactive to a proactive function it is vital to further develop procurement skills within the organization. Procurement functions need to continuously evolve and develop their knowledge and skills to navigate ever changing business environments, and make sure that they are aligned with overall business agendas. Hence, training programs are often a key part of effective procurement transformations.
To remain a competitive asset, procurement needs to excel at many different and new areas such as data science, communication, change management and partnerships. Establishing an internal bespoke procurement academy in line with long term goals will be a corner stone in creating a Procurement Done Right function.
An effective procurement academy should: Develop common values, cultures and languages; Spark innovation; Change behaviors; and, Deliver tangible business outcomes.
How to Establish Procurement Training Programs?
A structured approach for establishing an internal procurement academy begins with a demand assessment, where goals are aligned with the overall vision and agenda of the procurement function, procurement role definitions are reviewed, and a skills assessment is performed to identify gaps and learning potentials.
Based on this input, detailed learning objectives can be developed, followed by a concept and design of the overall curriculum. While the content is important, it is also vital to outline training modes and formats that fit the organization and deliver on the training goals. A mix of formats like classroom training, real cases, coaching in projects, e-learning, business games may be the optimal approach in larger organizations.
Further, the academy needs to be built with tangible business goals in mind. And a governance and monitoring structure need to be established for follow up on these, to make sure that the business return is delivered, and to evolve and improve the training curriculum over time.
Ideally, we want to measure not only that learning is happening, but that behaviors are changing and that business outcomes are being achieved as a result. E.g. use of new methods or tools, implementation of new category strategies, projects with x amount of savings delivered, improved employee satisfaction, internal stakeholder satisfaction etc.
What Are The Success Factors For Implementing Training Programs?
A procurement academy can be used as a vehicle to drive procurement change and highlight the greater value contribution that Procurement can offer. To achieve this, it is important to:
Base training on best practice
Training programs should be built on best practice processes and procedures collected from a multitude of sources (standard operating procedures, industry peers, internal experts, academic research etc.).
Use instructors with real experience
Coaches and instructors within the program should have significant experience in working together with large companies and solving real problems (applied theory).
Create content-rich programs
Programs with a wide range of real-life examples and are directly linked to the work content of the participants, enabling quick value creation.
Design interactive, blended learning model
Teaching model where the participants learn key concepts through a mix of lectures, case work, simulation exercises, applying concepts on day-to-day work and other interactive tools & methods in a pace and manner that fit their personal agendas.
Monitor & measure impact
Establishing measurements & monitoring procedures to determine impact of a Procurement Training Program and to secure quality, calibrate content and close gaps.
What Value Can a Training Program Bring to Procurement?
A well-structured procurement academy is a strategic enabler for organizations aiming to elevate their procurement function. By aligning training initiatives with long-term goals, defining clear procurement roles, and conducting comprehensive skill assessments, companies can develop a bespoke learning program tailored to their needs.
The key to success lies in leveraging best practices, experienced instructors, and content-rich programs that integrate real-world applications. Additionally, continuous measurement and follow-up secure long-term effectiveness, keeping the program relevant and impactful. Ultimately, a well-designed Procurement Academy not only enhances skills but also drives sustainable business value, positioning procurement as a core contributor to competitive advantage.
