paragons of the profession

The advancement of the supply chain profession is Job One at the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP). As part of that mission, the organization has launched an initiative to recognize practitioners' professional achievements with its new Supply Chain Professional and Senior Supply Chain Professional designations.

Unveiled at CSCMP's annual conference in October, the program provides a framework for formal recognition of excellence in the supply chain profession. It was modeled after similar programs developed by CSCMP members who work at companies like Intel, Ericsson, and IBM.

In concert with committee members drawn from both private business and academia, CSCMP Director of Education and Research Kathleen Hedland and her staff developed guidelines for the skill set and professional achievements needed to earn those designations. Nominees must demonstrate: high levels of supply chain experience and expertise; contributions and influence both within the company and in industry; and standing as a role model, mentor, or coach. Companies will nominate employees based on CSCMP's criteria; the organization will then review the applicants and award the designations.

Hedland explained at a special session during the conference that the program is not an exam-based certification and is not intended to replace any existing professional recognition programs. Instead, it is designed to increase corporate management's awareness of the contribution made by supply chain professionals and to encourage professionals to expand their cross-functional experience.

For more information about the program, send an e-mail to cscmpscmprof@cscmp.org.