IMPA Council, impressed by the quality of applications received, select candidates and scholars for its first Certified Buyer course
IMPA is delighted to announce that two candidates have been selected for the Certified Buyer course, benefiting from the Jan R. Johannessen Bursary which was set up to improve access to education for the industry.
Mr Shannon Fernando of Laugfs Supply Chain Operations and Ms Connie Catan of BW Fleet Management are the candidates the IMPA Council selected for the course after each submitted a 1,000-word paper on the importance of education in the maritime sector. In what was a very competitive process, the Council commended the pair for the quality of their papers.
IMPA COO and Secretary General, Stephen Alexander, said, “The standard of applications was very high, so much so that we have decided to award places on the course to two candidates.” He added, “We hear so often that standards are slipping in the supply chain, or that there is a real lack of talent. I can honestly say that having read so many applications, that simply isn’t true. The Council and I were blown away by the intelligence and insight shown by all the applicants and, in particular, Connie and Shannon. I think it demonstrates that the future of the industry is in very capable hands.”
Stephen added that awarding places to two candidates underlined IMPA’s commitment to education and the legacy of Jan R. Johannessen who put learning and development at the heart of IMPA’s agenda: “IMPA values education extremely highly. We make a commitment each year to improve our offering in that area and have made a commitment to develop the purchasing profession through enhancing the skills of those working in the marine sector.” “That we can offer two places on an advanced course for free brings us enormous pleasure and satisfaction. I know that Jan R. Johannessen would feel the same.” “Above all, the two candidates should be commended for their efforts and for earning a place on the course on merit. It is this type of determination, responsibility for growth and personal development that IMPA is very proud and privileged to support.”
Meet the scholars:
Ma. Concepcion C. Catan, Senior Purchaser at BW Fleet Management
In Connie’s paper on the Importance of Education for the Marine Sector, Connie highlighted the impact education could have on one’s future, that it never actually stops as you age, and that responsibility for career progress comes down to the individual. She said, “A career in maritime procurement is not different from any other field, as long as we have passion and eagerness to learn and excel to achieve our goals,” the paper said. “Our capability to learn is unlimited; it has no timeline, no end. We will learn as long as we are in the industry, with conviction.” Speaking to MT following the award of her place on the course, Connie said that she was looking forward to what was a “good opportunity to interact and collaborate with purchasers and experts across the world.” Adding, “It will widen my knowledge in the field of maritime procurement and, at the same time, allow me to share the experiences and ideas I have gained in this area.”
.png)
Shannon Fernando, Executive Supply Chain & Operations at Laugfs Maritime Services
The changing dynamics of the procurement profession and maritime industry are driving the need for greater education, Shannon Fernando explained in his paper: “Experience is a great teacher; however, this also means employees will tend to be limited to the present scope of their work. This is where education through CPD comes into play. In an ever-increasing globalised and competitive society, the importance of CPD cannot be overstated. This is especially true of the marine sector.” After being awarded his place on the course, Shannon told MT: “Education is very valuable. As a procurement professional employed in the maritime industry, I have personally experienced, the constantly evolving nature of the industry. “Even though I have obtained certifications and training in supply chain management, I have not received any training related to the maritime industry. I believe that this qualification will enable me to enhance my competencies as well to enhance my job suitability and career progression.”
This article was originally published in the Marine Trader, IMPA’s official journal for maritime procurement and supply chain management, in issue 05 of 2017. Head over to www.impa.net to find out more or simply read new issues on the go with the MT Journal app.
