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What is APS ?

The American Purchasing Society, Inc. is a prominent organisation catering to a diverse community of procurement professionals, including buyers, purchasing managers, executives, and enthusiasts. Established in 1969, APS boasts a nationwide membership comprising individuals from every U.S. state and a global presence spanning 28 countries.

APS’s primary mission revolves around enhancing the purchasing profession by offering top-notch procurement training and championing the growth of the business purchasing function through education and certification. It’s worth noting that APS holds the distinction of pioneering the certification program for professional buyers and purchasing managers. Notably, the APS Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) program distinguishes itself by evaluating candidates’ competence through a comprehensive written examination and assessing their career progression.

The attainment of APS’s professional procurement training objectives is made possible through an array of training programs and the publication of educational materials that resonate with the business and purchasing communities.

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    Who is Eligible ?

    Eligibility for CPP and CPPM candidacy extends to all individuals engaged in purchasing, materials management, or executive roles who maintain membership with the American Purchasing Society or are associated with organizations holding a valid APS membership. While certification isn’t obligatory for maintaining membership, all eligible members are encouraged to pursue procurement professional certification.

    CPP and CPPM candidacy is also open to nonmembers in the fields of purchasing, materials management, or executive positions. However, it’s important to note that certain exclusive price discounts are available solely to active APS members in good standing.

    Preparation for Certification:

    As part of the certification process, all CPP applicants are required to successfully complete the “Preparation for Certified Purchasing Professional Exam,” a comprehensive 3-week online course that includes the CPP examination. For additional details about the preparation course, please visit our Courses and Seminars page.

    Benefits Of APS Certification

    Certification in purchasing and supply chain management holds significant importance for several reasons. In today’s business landscape, the complexity and demands of purchasing and supply chain operations are widely recognized by business management. Executives seek assurance that their procurement and supply chain professionals are not only well-trained but also dedicated to their roles.

    The concept of professionalism in business has gained prominence, and the award of certification by The American Purchasing Society instils a high degree of confidence in the competence and integrity of certified individuals. Furthermore, the positive impact of professional accreditation is evident across various business sectors, from engineering to accounting, and purchasing management is no exception.

    Additional compelling factors supporting the need for certified supply chain managers and purchasing professionals include heightened personal confidence, job satisfaction, and professional pride, leading to improved performance. Certification serves as a powerful tool to curb unscrupulous practices in procurement and supply chain operations while opening doors to higher earning potentials. In fact, a nationwide survey conducted by APS revealed that CPP holders earned an average of 23.4% more than their non-certified counterparts in the field of purchasing and supply chain management.

    In a rapidly expanding business landscape, particularly in the distribution, logistics, and warehousing sectors, certified professionals are in high demand.