Laura Cocuzzi

For some of the readers out there who are exploring the area of Supply Chain, I can attest that it is an area that provides an individual with great opportunities, both in career and education, so long as the drive and passion exist. I began my career in Purchasing back in 2001 with the LCBO while completing my undergraduate degree from the University of Toronto. It was during that time that I discovered PMAC and the Principles-Based Accreditation program. Upon completion of my degree I began working with the Region of Peel as a Purchasing Analyst and decided to register into the C.P.P. program. 

Having worked in the industry for more than seven years I can see how this field is constantly evolving, not just in the legal and functional sense but also in areas where Purchasing and other Supply Chain functional groups link into. For instance, working within a Municipal Purchasing environment, I had the opportunity to manage various client groups’ procurement requirements from Construction to Energy Management to Human Resources. I made a point while I was in this role to learn each client’s business, understand it so I could incorporate my skills and the value I bring from my work experiences and the training received through PMAC into their business processes. In turn, there was a great synergy that existed as both client and analyst learn each other’s rationale and gain a greater perspective of how Purchasing plays such a vital role in any organization. You are not just buying - you are providing a service within your organization that keeps your firm moving and meeting the objectives of each department around you. From reviewing legal matters to complex negotiations with vendors on acquiring a major product that will help your firm improve its customer service, there are countless linkages Purchasing creates with others in an organization. Through your work experience, education through programs such as the Supply Chain Management Leadership Program, an inherent interest in customer service and learning the business processes of those around you, you are at a much higher advantage to succeed in this field. I have been able to transfer my skills as a purchasing analyst and my experience with construction procurement and am currently working as a Specialist in Project Development for new construction.

The Supply Chain Management Leadership Program, accompanied by work experience in the field, provides people not only with educational background but also challenges you to think beyond your defined job role and look into other areas of supply chain and how one would function in that role. Part of a person’s success both in the program and in their career, as mentioned earlier, is being able to extend yourself beyond your working area and learn other functional areas that exist both in your organization and externally. The program was challenging while trying to manage work and school, especially during the last six months prior to writing the C.P.P. exam. I still remember the many nights with my study group going over the course materials and then spending each night after that reviewing to the wee hours of the morning. My workplace is very supportive of their employees’ educational pursuit which was a big help while I was in the program. The program requires patience, diligence and dedication in order to succeed but the result is well worth it.