11 May 2010 | Steve Bagshaw

CIPS is to work with a UN body to improve efficiency and accountability of procurement and supply chain operations in the developing world.

Under the terms of a memorandum of understanding CIPS and the United Nations Office of Project Services (UNOPS) will work together to develop the procurement and supply management capacity of national governments in the least developed and developing countries.

For CIPS chief executive David Noble this presents “an exciting opportunity to increase the professionalism of procurement and supply chain management. The function has a fundamental role to play in all developing economies at the front line of efficiencies, sustainability and professional practice. I am delighted to join forces with the UN on this key partnership.”

Jan Mattsson, executive director of UNOPS, said: “If countries are to achieve the poverty reduction targets set out in the Millennium Development Goals it is crucial that least developed and developing countries enhance the skills they need to efficiently procure and deliver goods and services. Developing national capacity in these areas through training and certification, as well as by the introduction of internationally recognised standards, is a sustainable way to promote development and ensure that national governments own the process.”

UNOPS will focus on assessing capacity in individual countries and helping implement changes. CIPS will be responsible for in-country training, qualifications, capacity building, certification and skills development.

The initiative could help countries in Africa, South America, Asia and Europe. The project will begin this year with a campaign by the two bodies.