NIGP Your Community

NIGP FORUM 2023 
Early Registration Ends May 31

Earlier this month, Chanda Carpenter and Carrie Winter presented a Forum 2023 Preview Webinar which provided an overview of what you can expect to experience this year...more relevant procurement content, more interaction with industry experts, more connections with like-minded professionals, and more of the amazing activities that make NIGP Forum the premier event for public procurement professionals. 

FORUM 2023 PREVIEW WEBINAR

Based on all the great questions participants asked, we created FORUM FAQS to help all of you make informed decisions and planful choices as you prepare for this event. 

IN-PERSON - AUGUST 19-23
Members $897 ends May 31; $972 June 1
Non-Members $1,122 ends May 31; $1,172 June 1

VIRTUAL - AUGUST 21-23
Members $299 | Non-Members $399

REGISTER TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Carrie Roberts, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, C.P.M.
Purchasing Director
Pasco County Board of Commisssioners, New Port Richey, FL 

Carrie is a public procurement professional with over 25 years of experience working at cities, counties, utilities, aviation districts, K-12 and higher education as well as over 17 years of supervisory experience. She holds the NIGP Certified Procurement Professional designation (NIGP-CPP) as well as a Certified Public Purchasing Officer (CPPO), a Lifetime Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) and the Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt certifications.

She’s currently a member of the Tampa Bay Chapter of NIGP and FAPPO where she serves as committee chair. Carrie previously served the Central Florida Chapter of NIGP as President, Vice President and Treasure and the Airport Purchasing Group as Professional Development Chair (earning their Above and Beyond award in 2014). In 2015, she was a finalist for the NIGP Buyer of the Year award.

NIGP has played a huge role in her life, both professionally and personally. As a member of NIGP for over 25 years, attending meetings and getting to know her fellow procurement professionals has given Carrie a community she can always reach out to. Serving on the Board of local chapters and associations makes her fell like she is contributing to the present and future of NIGP and that she’s making a difference.

Without the mentors, professional relationships and most importantly, the friendships she’s made through NIGP over the years, she doubts she would have the career success she now has. She currently serves on the Member Council and was re-elected in recent elections.

Carrie always says “little children don’t dress up as Purchasing Agents for Halloween”…meaning that procurement is a “hidden” career, with most people not even knowing it exists. Her passion for procurement is encompassed by her desire to grow the field – reach out to young professionals, give them an opportunity to see what procurement is and what we do and introduce them to this amazing profession. Our days are rarely the same which is something you can’t say about a lot of “office” jobs. One day you’re 14 stories high on the outside of a power plant tower and the next you in the belly of an airport learning about the inner workings of luggage carousels. Her most satisfying moments are when she’s able to hire fresh faced into our profession and help them learn to love procurement as much as she does – and inspiring that passion in a new generation of professionals!

---

CELEBRATIONS

New Council and NIGP Certification Commission Appointments
Congratulations to these Volunteer Leaders

NIGP Certification Commission
Dr. Sawsan Abutabenjah
Mike Bevis
Nathan Daou
Stacy Gregg - Reappointed
Dan Marran

NIGP Finance Council 
Terry McKee
Ashley Stewart
Steve Siesser - Reappointed as Thought Leader

NIGP Center for the Advancement and Research and Excellence - Steering Council
Janice Lachance

NIGP Governing Council 
Bill Shields - Reappointed as Thought Leader

---

NIGP-CPP

Have you heard? Certification pays.

According to the 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Survey, certification status can increase earning potential.

For example, certified purchasing managers earn approximately $86,000, while those without certification earn approximately $75,000. 

59% of individual respondents reported that they hold procurement-specific certifications. Managers and directors are more likely to be certified than others. Approximately 74%-78% of director respondents said they hold certifications.

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Summer Seminar
JUNE 6 |  McDonough, GA

MAGPPA
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 14 | Pearl, MS

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 15 | Tampa, FL 

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION
65th Annual Meeting
JUNE 22 | Virtual 

READ MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Mentorship Program -  Shaping Your Future 

This program pairs public procurement professionals with more experienced NIGP members who can provide guidance on professional development opportunities and offer other career-related advice. It's a formal 1:1 mentoring experience that allows for continuous registration. 

This cohort uses NIGP’s online mentoring software for quick and easy matching and step-by-step instructions on how to successfully navigate the mentee/mentor relationship. If you're interested in participating in this program, email mentorship@nigp.org.

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Whole Instrument Rule - Doctrine that states where there is an ambiguity or other confusion within a written contract, courts must rely solely on what is intended by the contract as a whole rather than parsing individual phrases, clauses, or sentences.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

READ MORE

---

BECOME PART OF THE
NIGP Talent Council  

The NIGP Talent Council is recruiting leaders to fill one (1) public procurement practitioner position on the NIGP Talent Council. 

If you wish to be considered for this volunteer role, please submit the following two documents: 

• LETTER OF INTEREST - explain why you are a good candidate to serve on the NIGP Talent Council, please email your Letter of Interest to Helen Leonard (hleonard@nigp.org)
• COMPLETED - NIGP VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

Contact Helen Leonard, Governance Manager, if you have any questions by email (hleonard@nigp.org) or call (800) 307-6447 x240.

Deadline to Submit: June 2, 2023

NIGP FORUM 2023 
Early Registration Ends May 31

Your professional development is a top priority. What better way to increase your learning, expand your network, and strengthen your relationships than by attending Forum 2023, the largest conference solely dedicated to public procurement.

We know funding poses a challenge for many of our members. That's why we created a FORUM TOOLKIT to help you make the case for attending this once a year event while taking advantage of early registration savings. The value you'll receive from the innovative educational content and practical advice from subject matter experts is priceless.

This year, we're introducing three motivating learning paths for both in-person and virtual attendees:

• The Cooperative Procurement Journey
• Navigating the Construction Procurement Process
• The Technology Procurement Jumpstart

IN-PERSON - AUGUST 19-23
Members $897 ends May 31; $972 June 1
Non-Members $1,122 ends May 31; $1,172 June 1

VIRTUAL - AUGUST 21-23
Members $299 | Non-Members $399

VIEW VIDEO
Forum 2023 Closing Speaker
Jimmy Yeary

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet the New Chapter Ambassador for Area 4
Amber Yates, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, CPM
Procurement Administrator
Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority, AR 

Amber Yates is the Procurement Administrator at Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority (LRWRA) and has worked in supply chain and procurement in both the public and private sector for fifteen (15) years. She began her career working in the private sector for companies such as Snyder-Lance, Inc. where she was involved in manufacturing, production, warehousing, shipping, and supply, and PPG Industries where she managed warehouse and stock logistics across international locations on 5 continents. Amber then transitioned to government procurement first at the Arkansas Office of State Procurement and then to her current role.

Amber currently serves as President of the Arkansas Chapter of NIGP where she has been a member of the Board serving in roles such as Legislative Liaison, Program Chair, Member-at-Large, and chairs of other various committees since 2015.  She also serves NIGP at a national level as a member of the Content Management Committee and as one of the Area 4 Chapter Ambassadors. Amber has presented nationally on several procurement topics, has contributed procurement content, and holds multiple certifications including:

• NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP)
• Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)
• Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPPB)
• Certified Public Manager (CPM)
• Arkansas Governmental Manager (AGM)

Amber holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Centenary College of Louisiana and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock where she was honored with the MBA Outstanding Graduate Student of the Year Award.

---

CELEBRATIONS

Radio NIGP - May Segment
Mindful Moments & Improving Your Situation

Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May in the United States. 

Procurement can be fun, however, it's not easy at times. That's why awareness of your well-being is important. 

This month’s show addresses topics that include Improving your own work situation, moving/sharing responsibilities strategically, change or transformation, training and letting go, and vacation planning. 

Listen to this month’s commentary for some insight and encouragement.  

View Radio NIGP

---

NIGP-CPP

The August 2023 testing window is open through June 30th.

The NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP) is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP.

Did you know?

More and more employers are seeing NIGP-CPP as a marker of accomplishment. NIGP-CPP certification is included in the U.S. Department of Labor Credentials Center.

Read more

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

KENTUCKY PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Reverse Trade Show
MAY 22 | Midway, KY

OREGON PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Spring Conference and Vendor Showcase
MAY 24-26 | Redmond, OR

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Summer Seminar
JUNE 6 |  McDonough, GA

Read more

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Job Board - Career Opportunities For You

Whether you're looking for a job or recruiting for your entity, you can benefit from the NIGP Job Board. It's your best resource for career opportunities exclusively for public  procurement professionals.

All NIGP members can search for or post open roles on the NIGP electronic job board. Postings are free to member agencies and are valid for 45 days.

Read more

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Undercapitalization - A financial situation that occurs when a business does not have adequate capital to meet its normal business expenses and pay its creditors.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

Learn more

---

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM NIGP

NIGP, NASPO, and UPPCC have reached a settlement agreement.

For the past year, NASPO, UPPCC and NIGP have been working collaboratively to define the elements of an agreement between them regarding governance issues and a relationship between the organizations that best serves the public procurement community.

On March 30, 2023, a settlement agreement was reached between NASPO, NIGP, and UPPCC on changes to UPPCC’s governance structure that include NIGP leaving/withdrawing its position on UPPCC’s Governing Board. 

All three organizations look forward to continuing their service to the public procurement community.

READ MORE

NIGP FORUM 2023 REGISTER NOW & SAVE

Early Registration Ends May 31

Forum 2023 is where more happens - more networking, more learning, and more public procurement professionals coming together to share challenges, success stories, and exchanging more ideas than anywhere else.

New this year, content is offered in three exciting learning paths to both in-person and virtual attendees:

• The Cooperative Procurement Journey
• Navigating the Construction Procurement Process
• The Technology Procurement Jumpstart

IN-PERSON - AUGUST 19-23
Members $897 ends May 31 | $972 - June 1
Non-Members $1,122 ends May 31 | $1,172 - June 1

VIRTUAL - AUGUST 21-23
Members; $299 | Non-Members; $399

REGISTER TODAY

VIEW VIDEO

Forum 2023 Opening Keynote Speaker
Shola Roberts 

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Tonya Hodges, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Senior Buyer, Purchasing Department
Jordan School District, UT

Tonya has almost 21 years of procurement experience, with 18 of those in public procurement. She has worked in two public school districts and thoroughly enjoys the opportunities and experiences they have provided.

Tonya is passionate about professional development and giving back to the profession. She says, "I cherish the friendships and mentors that I've met through NIGP and our local chapter. We are quite collaborative here in Utah, and I appreciate that I can reach out to my counterparts throughout the state when I'm trying to collect data or have questions about a procurement, and want to see what others have done.  NIGP webinars and courses, Chapter Academy and Forums have provided me with new ideas and skills that help me each day.  The support we receive from NIGP for our chapters is fantastic.  I love this community!"

For 16 years, Tonya has served in some capacity with the Utah Chapter of NIGP board or committees. In her role as Utah Chapter President in 2021, the Utah Chapter of NIGP won the 2021 Outstanding Chapter of the Year for Membership and was designated with Platinum status from NIGP. Tonya's leadership and hard work were instrumental in achieving this recognition, and her tireless efforts have continued into 2022, where she served as Past-President and Project Manager for the Utah Chapter of NIGP 2022 Reverse Trade Show.

The Reverse Trade Show is the largest fundraising opportunity for the chapter each year, and Tonya's heart and passion shine through in everything she does to make it a success. Without her hard work and dedication, the Utah Chapter would not be able to give out as many scholarships or achieve such impressive awards.

Tonya's commitment to NIGP and the Utah community is truly exceptional. Her tireless work and unwavering dedication are an inspiration to all who work with her.

---

 CELEBRATIONS

2023 Member Countil Election Winners
Congratulations to Carl and Carrie

The two candidates that received the highest votes were:

Carl Bonitto, CSCMP, Manager of Purchasing and Risk Management Services for Northumberland County, ON

Carrie Roberts, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, C.P.M., Purchasing Director, Pasco County Board of Commissioners, FL

Carl and Carrie will serve a three-year term on the Member Council effective July 1, 2023.

The Talent Council extends its appreciation to Paige McDonald, City of New Braunfels, TX and Bob Pacenta, Emerald Coast Utilities Authority, FL for their willingness to compete for these Member Council seats. 

---

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP is World-Class

NIGP-CPP candidates have spoken and they say NIGP-CPP is world-class.

Based on a net promoter score (NPS) of 83.8 for the NIGP-CPP. The Net Promoter score is the gold standard of customer experience metrics worldwide.

We thank everyone who helped make this certification program a success. Together we're elevating the procurement profession through this coveted certification.

Read more

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter Awards - How to Video

New Video:  How to Successfully Complete the Chapter Performance Standard Seal and Outstanding Award Applications

This quick video provides useful tips and takeaways.

VIEW VIDEO

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Member Directory - a valuable resource to connect and consult with like-minded procurement professionals from across the country and Canada.

Search the 16,000+ member directory by organization type, geographic location and so
much more.

There's no better time to build strong meaningful connections that can have a positive impact in our lives today and into the future.

Read more

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Barriers to Entry - Obstacles (such as high start-up costs, intellectual property, or tariffs) that may prevent new suppliers from entering the marketplace.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

VIEW THE DICTIONARY

NIGP FORUM 2023 
Early Registration Ends May 31

Join seasoned practitioners, thought leaders, plenary speakers, peers, and suppliers for the premier public procurement event of the year.

Forum 2023 is where more happens every minute of every day - whether you attend in-person or virtually. Discover the latest trends and learn how agencies from around the US and Canada are handling many of the challenges you face. 

New this year, content is offered in three exciting learning paths to both in-person and virtual attendees:

• The Cooperative Procurement Journey
• Navigating the Construction Procurement Process
• The Technology Procurement Jumpstart

IN-PERSON - AUGUST 19-23
Members $897 ends May 31; $972 June 1
Non-Members $1,122 ends May 31; $1,172 June 1

VIRTUAL - AUGUST 21-23
Members $299 | Non-Members $399

Register Today

---

NIGP SPOTLIGHT

Fred Kuhn
NIGP Chief Growth Officer
Herndon, VA

Under Fred's leadership, the Institute has earned over $1.2 million from our enterprise partners, the NIGP Business Council, digital ads, event sponsorships, and a robust scholarship program in partnership with  Sourcewell.

Did you know that Fred is also Chairman of the Board for the Hope to Walk organization? Hope To Walk is a non-profit charitable trust that offers prosthetic legs and hope to a world in need. Two weeks ago, he was in Guatemala providing leadership in their mission to fit children and adults with prosthetic legs. He returned home on a Sunday evening and the next morning was leading a conversation on the FY24 Institute budget.

Thank you Fred for caring enough to make a difference for the greater good.

---

CELEBRATIONS

Striving for Excellence in Procurement
The Accreditation for Quality Public Procurement Departments (QPPD)

QPPD Accreditation communicates the value of your procurement department to internal and external stakeholders. 

We'd like to congratulate these public entities on earning this distinguished accreditation:

City and County of Honolulu, HI
Broward County Sheriff's Office, FL 

Procurement Departments are QPPD-accredited for three years. Once a Procurement Department has earned QPPD Accreditation, it is eligible and encouraged to apply for Pareto Accreditation. 

View List of QPPD Recipients

---

NIGP-CPP

1,050 NIGP-CPP Certificants and Counting 

There are now 1,050 NIGP-CPP certificants across 45 states and 5 provinces.

The threshold of 1,000 certificants was achieved in less than 3 years despite an extended pandemic that impacted the workplace.

NIGP-CPP is the only certification that specifically targets mid to executive level procurement leaders.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this certification program a success.

The August 2023 testing window is open through June 30th.

Read more

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

DALLAS FORT WORTH
Texas Lone Star Conference
MAY 15-17 | Dallas, TX

CAPITAL AREA PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Reverse Trade Show and Career Far
MAY 18 | Chester, VA

RMGPA 
Summer Conference
MAY 18 | Denver, CO

KENTUCKY PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Reverse Trade Show
MAY 22 | Midway, KY

Read more

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Nsite - Your Online Community. Connect, communicate and collaborate with peers from across the country at all different stages in their careers.

What your peers are saying about Nsite:

View Video

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Demand Elasticity - A measure of the change in the quantity of a good purchased or demanded in relation to a change in its price.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

 

 

FREE FORUM WEBINAR

May 8 | 2PM - 3PM (ET)

Curious about the NIGP Forum? Join us for a preview of what you can expect from the Forum in-person and virtual experience.

NIGP staff will walk you through this year's program and introduce our lineup of keynote speakers, learning sessions and workshops, networking opportunities, and exhibitor activities.

NEW Learning Paths
We're excited to present new learning paths which we specifically developed as a result of member feedback. The learning paths include:

• The Cooperative Procurement Journey
• Navigating the Construction Procurement Process,
• The Technology Procurement Jumpstart

Forum 2023 is where more happens - more networking, more learning, and more procurement highlights.

Attend this interactive Webinar to learn more about Forum and get any questions you have answered by our NIGP team.

REGISTER TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet the New Chapter Ambassador for Area 9
Whitney Mugford-Smith, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Procurement Manager, City of Wheat Ridge, CO 

Whitney is thrilled to serve as Area 9 Chapter Ambassador. In addition to her role as the Procurement Manager for the City of Wheat Ridge, she's the Multiple Assemblies of Procurement Officials (MAPO ) Chairperson and was recently selected to serve as an Advisor to the University of Colorado Boulder Leeds School of Business for their Customer Experience Program.

Whitney has been working in public procurement in various capacities since 2012 and chose to make the leap to full-time public procurement in 2015.

---

CELEBRATIONS

Excellence in Procurement
The Accreditation for Quality Public Procurement Departments (QPPD)

QPPD Accreditation communicates the value of your procurement department to internal and external stakeholders. 

We'd like to congratulate Community Transit in Everett WA on earning the QPPD accreditation.

Procurement Departments are QPPD-accredited for three years. Once a Procurement Department has earned QPPD Accreditation, it is eligible and encouraged to apply for Pareto Accreditation. 

LIST OF QPPD RECIPIENTS

---

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Webinars Reach 2,909 Attendees

Rick Grimm, NIGP CEO and Diane Daly, Director of Certification produce a monthly webinar on the Pathways program and its integration with the NIGP-CPP.

Over the past year, we've had an average of 87 individuals attending the Webinars. Since the inception of the Webinar program, we've informed 2,909 attendees about the value of NIGP-CPP.

Don't miss our upcoming NIGP-CPP Webinar: Connecting Certification to Your Learning & Career Aspirations on May 3. 

Register Today

---

CHAPTER EVENTS

Upcoming Chapter Events

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Buyer/Seller Golf Tournament
MAY 5 | Tampa, FL

CENTRAL GULF COAST
Reverse Trade Show
MAY 11-12 |  Panama City, FL

DALLAS FORT WORTH
Texas Lone Star Conference
MAY 15-17 | Dallas, TX

CAPITAL AREA PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Reverse Trade Show and Career Far
MAY 18 | Chester, VA

VIEW MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

White Paper Developed by NIGP Business Council - "That was Then, This is Now, Why Suppliers are Still Choosing to 'No Bid'.

Nearly a decade after the NIGP Business Council created its first white paper, “We ‘No Bid,’ and I’ll Tell You Why", suppliers are still choosing to "No Bid".  

Find out why with this FREE White Paper. 

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Logic Model (Systems approach)  - A  visual representation that features the shared relationships among outputs, outcomes, activities, resources, and impact for a program.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

NIGP JOB OPENING

Public Procurement Education Manager

NIGP is on the hunt for an experienced Public Procurement Manager to join our Content Research & Development Team.

We're looking for someone with an entrepreneurial spirit, a subject matter expert in public procurement with an educational focus that's inclined to be disruptive and visionary. An individual that brings with them new ideas and is not afraid to lead us to success.

This person will bring expertise and work experience to the Institute as a public procurement practitioner and serve as the go-to-resource for NIGP staff on matters related to the principles, standards, and practices governing public procurement.

READ MORE

 

NIGP AWARD NOMINEES

Applications Due April 24

Congratulations on being nominated for the Procurement Manager of the Year (PMOY) or the Procurement Specialist of the Year (PSOY) award.

This is a wonderful first step in the awards process, however, it's only the beginning.

We need to hear from you. Please complete and submit the award application along with your letters of recommendation by Monday, April 24.

We wouldn't want you to miss this opportunity to be considered for one of these prestigious awards. You're the best-of-the-best and deserve to be recognized.

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Michelle R. Croft
Procurement Supervisor, Professional  Services
City of Austin, TX

NIGP mentors and procurement gurus John Flynn and Marcheta Gillespie encouraged me to get involved in the NIGP Mentorship Program when I was at Forum in Boston last year. When the online portal opened up in September, I put together a profile, and registered as a mentor. Well, here I am, 6 months into the program, and I have 2 outstanding mentees and just accepted a 3rd. We’re all in different parts of the country, different-sized organizations, but the challenges and resource needs are the same.  I’m not sure who has benefitted most from the program, me or them. It has given me a sense of purpose that I had been lacking in my career the past several years. I’m excited about procurement again and making a difference any way I can.

Michelle’s Bio

B.S. degree from Texas A&M University – I began my procurement career in private-sector manufacturing and that lasted 8 years, but the instability during the early 2000’s led me to seek the stability of the public sector. I began public service almost 20 years ago at the State of Texas oversight agency, the TX Building and Procurement Commission. I am the former Procurement Manager for the Travis County Healthcare District (dba Central Health), former Director of Purchasing and Contracting at Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and have spent the last 10 years with the City of Austin’s Capital Contracting team procuring Professional A/E Services and Construction services.

---

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Agency Advancement Award
Bragging rights for your agency's innovation

The Agency Advancement Award recognizes agencies who have excelled at implementing a procurement-related program or process improvement within their organization. 

Agencies big and small are encouraged to apply.

Amy Flack, representing NIGP's Member Council says, "Agencies are on the front lines solving difficult procurement problems every day, and we want to recognize those successes..."

Deadline to submit is April 24.

LEARN MORE

---

NIGP-CPP

The milestones just keep coming

The momentum of NIGP-CPP, the premier professional certification for the mid-to-executive level leader keeps getting stronger and stronger.

Our March 2023 new application intake (48) was the highest monthly total since June 2021 when the "free" application for CPPOs/CPPBs ended. 

And we're approaching another milestone...since the inception of the program, 1,471 candidate applications have been approved. This fiscal year, we've received 218 applications compared to 158 applications at this point last year.

LEARN MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

GOVERNMENTAL PROCUREMENT ASSOC.OF GA
Spring Conference and Business Meeting
APRIL 26-28 | Pine Mountain, GA

MPPOA
Reverse Trade Show
APRIL 28 | Lansing, MI

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Buyer/Seller Golf Tournament
MAY 5 | Tampa, FL

CENTRAL GULF COAST
Reverse Trade Show
MAY 11-12 |  Panama City, FL

LEARN MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Mentorship Program -  is a formal 1:1 mentoring experience that allows for continuous registration. 

This program pairs public procurement professionals with more experienced NIGP members who can provide guidance on professional development opportunities and offer other career-related advice. 

Michelle's Member Spotlight shares her personal experience with the program.

Email mentorship@nigp.org, if you're interested in participating. 

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Voluntary Restraint Agreement (VRA) - An agreement between countries to limit exports or imports to a mutually agreed upon number for a specific good

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

VIEW THE DICTIONARY

---

RADIO NIGP

Post COVID - You Made Improvements, Did They Stick? 

This month's segment discusses the various struggles with losing momentum and gains during COVID, from Emergency to Permanency (such as virtual/online bid openings, remote working) and how public procurement professionals have adapted. Features include:

Hot Topic - Coming out of COVID - The good and the bad.

Legally Speaking: Contract Modifications, Electronic Sourcing, Electronic Evaluation, Electronic Signatures, Public Meetings, On the Job Training...

Way to Grow: What we learned during the pandemic that helped us grow.

VIEW THE BROADCAST

UPCOMING HEADLINER

Overcoming Current Supply Chain Issues 

May 17

As we continue to navigate the pandemic’s impact on supply chains, how can we be better prepared for the next crisis? How can our supply chains be strengthened for the future?

This session provides an update on what's happening in supply chains today based on current research and discussions within various industries. We begin by reviewing recent government data related to supply chain shortages, inflation, and inventory challenges. The good news is that things are getting better - the not-so-good news is that there are still a lot of challenges relative to the pre-COVID period.  

May 17
1:30PM - 4:30PM (ET) | 3 Contact Hours
$79 Members; $179 Non-Members

Learn more

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Sarah Andrews, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Contract Specialist
Dutchess County, Poughkeepsie, NY

Selected as one of American City & County's
"2022 Exemplary Public Servants"

At Dutchess County, Sarah primarily works with RFPs for professional services and assists with bidding. She also runs the shared services procurement program which provides procurement assistance service to any municipality in Dutchess County.

"If you're putting out a bid, and you're not really sure what to do, you can reach out to me and ask any questions," Andrews says. "I'm that point of contact to help any municipality within our county."

It's because of that helpful, encouraging service Andrews offers with Dutchess County that she has been chosen as one of American City & County's 2022 Exemplary Public Servants.

Read more

---

CELEBRATIONS

New Volunteer Leaders
Appointed by the Pipeline and Placement Committee

We're proud to announce the following volunteer leaders have been appointed to the various NIGP committees: 

LaTasha Terry NIGP-CPP, CPPO, Procurement Director for the South Carolina Dept. of Motor Vehicles, to the Mentorship Committee.

Amber Yates NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, Procurement Administrator for the Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority AR, as an Area 4 Chapter Ambassador

The Pipeline and Placement Committee is responsible for assessing the talents and passions of volunteer candidates and appointing volunteers to committees. 

Read more

---

NIGP-CPP

Have you heard? Certification pays.

According to the 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Survey, certification status can increase earning potential.

For example, certified purchasing managers earn approximately $86,000, while those without certification earn approximately $75,000. 

59% of individual respondents reported that they hold procurement-specific certifications. Managers and directors are more likely to be certified than others. Approximately 74%-78% of director respondents said they hold certifications.

Read more

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

SAMPO
Western Regional Conference
APRIL 19-20 | Cortland, NY 

ARKANSAS CHAPTER
Conference and Vendor Expo
APRIL 19-21 | Little Rock, AR

NMPPA
Spring Conference and Vendor Fair
APRIL 19-21 | Albuquerque, NM

GOVERNMENTAL PROCUREMENT ASSOC. OF GA
Spring Conference and Business Meeting

Read more

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Nsite - Your Online Community. Connect, communicate and collaborate with colleagues from across the U.S. and Canada. 

What your peers are saying about Nsite:

VIEW VIDEO

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Acceptable Products List (APL) - A pre-approved list of products, usually grouped by manufacturer, that have proven to be in conformance with developed specifications and standards. The list may result from performance testing of the product or as a result of field testing or laboratory analysis. 

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

 

NIGP FORUM 2023

Where More Happens...

NIGP Forum is the premier public procurement event in North America. Our theme this year is "Where more happens..." which describes Forum 2023 to a tee.

It's where you'll find:

MORE public procurement discussions
MORE like-minded professionals gather (in-person and virtually)

MORE educational content with 60+ procurement-related sessions
MORE networking sessions with peers
MORE connections with suppliers during the exhibition

Although we’ve added more, we kept the in-person early fee the same as last year due to member feedback.

In-Person, Louisville, KY | August 19 - 23
$897 Members (until May 31)
$1,122 Non-Members (until May 31)

Virtual | August 21 - 23
$299 Members
$399 Non-Members

Why attend Forum?  Listen to your colleagues.

VIEW VIDEO

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Sharonda Thompson, NIGP-CPP, GCPA, CPDW
Director, Logistical Services
Dougherty County School System, GA

Sharonda Thompson is the Director of Logistical Services for the Dougherty County School System (DCSS). DCSS is the largest school system in the second congressional district, the leading catalyst and advocate for public education in Southwest Georgia, and the place where innovation and drive unite to provide incredible opportunities for students.

Sharonda has been with DCSS for nine years, starting as an Administrative Coordinator with the Logistical Services department and advancing to Assistant Director (2015), Interim Director (2017), and finally Logistical Services Director in 2018. Her team works closely with vendors, cooperative purchasing groups, and internal departments to provide guidance, training, and assistance, helping to develop comprehensive procurement strategies.

Sharonda earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Albany State University and a Master's degree in Business Administration. Her focus has been and continues to be, applying superior business practices in conserving public funds, obtaining best-value solutions that support student achievement, and providing excellence in customer service as it relates to the procurement experience.

To accomplish this, she has re-engineered her staff's approach to both simple and complicated procurement activities and elevated the importance of monitoring and training for continuous improvement.

NIGP-CPP Certification

Earning the NIGP-CPP designation has given me so much confidence and pride, especially as I reflect on the knowledge and skills I’ve acquired during my career and through NIGP’s learning resources. As procurement professionals, we can be so consumed in our daily duties, that we don’t pause for learning opportunities, or to give ourselves a pat on the back so-to-speak, for all we know and for all we do. It’s important because our commitment to learning directly impacts the way purchasing in our respective organizations evolves. This designation, for me, is a reminder of that, and it’s a reminder to make time for growth. Thank you NIGP for providing an incredible platform for us all and for all you do to support the procurement profession.

---

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Agency Advancement Award
Be proud of  your agency's innovation.

The Agency Advancement Award recognizes agencies who have excelled at implementing a procurement-related program or process improvement within their organization. 

Agencies big and small are encouraged to apply.

Amy Flack, representing NIGP's Member Council says, "Agencies are on the front lines solving difficult procurement problems every day, and we want to recognize those successes...I want to encourage agencies to apply for this exciting award to show the incredible value procurement staff bring to their agency."

Deadline to submit is April 24, 2023.

READ MORE

---

NIGP-CPP

1,550+ Approved NIGP-CPP Candidates and Counting

NIGP-CPP uniquely connects your learning and career aspirations.

It's the only certification that specifically targets mid to executive level procurement leaders in the public sector and is refreshed by ongoing research which keeps the certification relevant to what the market needs. . 

What Your Colleagues Say About NIGP-CPP

 

VIEW VIDEO

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

Arizona State Capitol Chapter

Reverse Trade Show
APRIL 11 | Goodyear, AZ

Tennessee Association of Public Purchasing
Spring Professional Development Conference
APRIL 12-14 | Memphis, TN 

SCAGPO
Reverse Trade Show
APRIL 13 | Lexington, SC

Southeast Florida Chapter
Spring Conference
APRIL 13 | Boca Raton, FL 

Gulf Coast Association Governmental Purchasing Officers
11th Annual Reverse Trade Show
APRIL 14 | Naples, FL 

READ MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP's Global Best Practices provide guidance on procurement processes, procedures and important topics to ensure you're equipped with the information you need to succeed. Recent Global Best Practices include: 

• Establishing an Effective Supplier Diversity Program 
• Procurement’s Role in the Use of Non-Emergency Federal Funds 
• Achieving an Optimal pCard  Program

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Monopsony - A market in which there is only one buyer.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

READ MORE

---

2023 NCPP

Above & Beyond Award Winners 

Congratulations to these amazing public procurement professionals!

The National Cooperative Procurement Partners (NCPP) recognizes stars in public procurement who have gone ABOVE & BEYOND in their procurement role.

Thanks to all who took the time and initiative to nominate their peers in procurement for the annual NCPP Above & Beyond award.

2023 AWARD WINNERS

 

NIGP VCON 2023

Empowering New Procurement Professionals 

Are you new to public procurement or interested in taking a refresher on the fundamentals? No matter where you are in your career, NIGP VCON has something for you. 

Choose from a total of 8 educational sessions taught by industry leading practitioners who share the foundations to kick-start your career. Attendees select a total of 4 live sessions (2 per day). Registration includes on-demand access to all the sessions post-conference.

Members Appreciation Special - 50% Off

First 250 members to register will pay only $74 (savings courtesy of our government partner Sourcewell).  

Use coupon code SOURCEWELL50

Regular Member Price: $149 
Non-Member Price: $249

NIGP VCON 2023
June 7-8
12:30PM - 5PM | 9 Contact Hours

REGISTER TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Molly McLoughlin, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, FMP
Director of Procurement
Colorado Department of Transportation

Selected as one of American City & County's
"2022 Exemplary Public Servants"

Public service is a calling, and people who enter it feel strongly about serving. Procurement, on the other hand, is not necessarily a field one is called to, but the right person can use procurement skills to benefit their community. That is the case of Molly McLoughlin.

McLoughlin has the calling to public service. "I am in public service because that's who I am by nature, she says. "My parents are public servants and that's just who I am as a person."

Excerpt from "The importance of building relationships: 2022 Exemplary Public Servant Molly McLoughlin" written by Michelle M. Havich, March 20, 2023, American City & County. 

Read more

---

CELEBRATIONS

Recognizing Milestone Anniversaries
Thank you for being a valued Member 

Celebrating 65 years of membership:
City of Baltimore - Bureau of Procurement, MD
City of Tucson, AZ
Norfolk Public Schools, VA
State of Alaska
Miami Dade County - Strategic Procurement Department, FL

Celebrating 60 years of membership:
City of Independence, MO
City of Tulsa, OK
Metropolitan Government of Nashville-Davidson County, TN

Celebrating 55 years of membership:
City of Tampa, FL
Corporation of the City of Kitchener, ON

READ MORE

---

PROCUREMENT MONTH SPECIALS

1. Save 20%
On-Demand Core Certificate: Foundations of Sourcing & Contracting

(Includes all four On-Demand Competency Modules)

• Specification Development
• Evaluation Methods
• Negotiations
• Sourcing and Contracting Methods

Member Price: $360 Special $288
Non-Member: $410 Special $328
Contact Hours: 12.5 | CEUs: 1.25

REGISTER NOW until March 31. 

2. FREE On-Demand NIGP-CPP Assessment Tool Module A Exam Prep Only 

This interactive tool provides personalized insight into your procurement knowledge before you test. 

Receive immediate feedback on all 150 questions, so you'll know if your selections were right or wrong and learn why.

Price: $49; FREE to ALL

FREE NOW until March 31.

---

NIGP-CPP

Registration and Payment for May 2023 Testing Closes Today. The August 2023 Testing Window Opens on April 4. 

The NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP) is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP.

Did you know?

More and more employers are seeing NIGP-CPP as a marker of accomplishment. NIGP-CPP certification is included in the U.S. Department of Labor Credentials Center.

Learn more

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter Performance Standards Seal & Outstanding Chapter Awards

A two-layered approach to recognizing chapter accomplishments:

1. Chapter Performance Standards Seal – a ‘standard’ in which chapters can strive to follow and advance the opportunities offered to their members. 

2. Outstanding Chapter Awards – offered in four categories for the pursuit of excellence in practices and innovations.

Deadline for Submissions: May 22, 2023

Learn more

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Member Directory - a valuable resource to connect and consult with like-minded procurement professionals from across the U.S. and Canada.

Search the 16,000+ member directory by organization type, geographic location and so
much more.

There's no better time to build strong meaningful connections that can have a positive impact in our lives today and into the future. 

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Externality - A benefit or cost borne by a third party but not by the producer.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

---

WORKING TO SUPPORT YOU

Coalition formed to simplify Federal Awards Process

NIGP is part of a coalition with GFOA, NLC, and NACo that's providing recommendations to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in response to their Request for Information on proposed revisions to Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulation, Subtitle A, Chapters I and II.

The coalition is working to support our members when it comes to the federal awards process and is extremely interested in working with OMB to provide feedback on how to reform and simplify Title 2 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Subtitle A, Chapter I and II for elected officials and the government finance officers that are charged with carrying out the operations of the counties and municipalities.

READ MORE

PROCURE ON
Procurement Month Highlights

Portland Community College
For the first time in it's history, Portland Community College (the largest institution of higher education in the state of Oregon) has issued a Procurement Month proclamation.

This is a major accomplishment and great recognition from not only the College President but the entire Board. Congratulations procurement...Procure On. 

Kentucky Finance and Administration Cabinet, Office of Procurement Services shared how they celebrated Procurement Professionals' Day and reflected on the valuable work that all procurement professionals do every day (and had a good time doing it). 

Forward your proclamations, photos, newsletters and activities to  (cpatin@nigp.org) so we can include them on PROCUREMENT MONTH 2023 and share your incredible work. 

VIEW VIDEO

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Danny Mays, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, CPSM, CPSD, CMPO
Director of Procurement
Maryland Judiciary

I spent some time in the university system, so it always felt great to see the impact of bringing better value to students – like a new dining hall or new building for educational purposes or a multi-service center where you see folks from all over the community have a new place for recreational purposes. 

That’s one of the reasons, I PROCURE ON.

---

CELEBRATIONS

Recognizing Milestone Anniversaries
Thank you for being a valued Member 

Celebrating 75 years of membership:
City of Coral Gables, FL
City of Hartford, CT
City of Norfolk, VA

Celebrating 70 years of membership:
City of Norwich , CT
Maricopa County,  AZ

READ MORE

---

PROCUREMENT MONTH SPECIALS

1. Save 20%
On-Demand Core Certificate: Foundations of Sourcing & Contracting

(Includes all four On-Demand Competency Modules)

• Specification Development
• Evaluation Methods
• Negotiations
• Sourcing and Contracting Methods

Member Price: $360 Special $288
Non-Member: $410 Special $328
Contact Hours: 12.5 | CEUs: 1.25

REGISTER NOW until March 31. 

2. FREE On-Demand NIGP-CPP Assessment Tool Module A Exam Prep Only 

This interactive tool provides personalized insight into your procurement knowledge before you test. 

Receive immediate feedback on all 150 questions, so you'll know if your selections were right or wrong and learn why.

Price: $49; FREE to ALL

FREE NOW until March 31.

---

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP is World-Class

NIGP-CPP candidates have spoken and they say NIGP-CPP is world-class.

Based on a net promoter score (NPS) of 83.8 for the NIGP-CPP. The Net Promoter score is the gold standard of customer experience metrics worldwide.

We thank everyone who helped make this certification program a success. Together we're elevating the procurement profession through this coveted certification.

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

Tennessee Association of Public Purchasing
Spring Professional Development Conference
APRIL 12-14 | Memphis, TN 

Arkansas Chapter
Conference and Vendor Expo
APRIL 19-21 | Little Rock, AR

Michigan Public Purchasing Officers Association
Reverse Trade Show
APRIL 28 | Lansing, MI

VIEW MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

White Paper Developed by NIGP Business Council - "That was Then, This is Now, Why Suppliers are Still Choosing to 'No Bid'.

Nearly a decade after the NIGP Business Council created its first white paper, “We ‘No Bid,’ and I’ll Tell You Why", suppliers are still choosing to "No Bid".  

Find out why with this FREE White Paper. 

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Quality Standard - A recognized level of quality or excellence that must be met to qualify for certification from a certifying body.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

LAST CHANCE TO NOMINATE

NIGP Member Awards

Deadline to submit is Friday, March 24

Please take a few minutes to nominate a colleague (or yourself) for doing an outstanding job. That special person who is always ready, willing and able to help, offer guidance, and provide support.

That individual who embodies and demonstrates the Values and Guiding Principles of  the profession.

NIGP Awards Include:

• Albert H. Hall Memorial Award
• Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service
• Distinguished Service Award
• Procurement Manager of the Year
• Procurement Specialist of the Year

NOMINATE TODAY

MEMBER AWARDS 
Call for Nominations 

It's Procurement Month, there's no better time to nominate a colleague (or yourself) for doing an outstanding job. Take a few minutes to nominate that special person who is always willing to help, to offer guidance and to provide support. Get recognized!

NIGP Awards Include:

• Albert H. Hall Memorial Award
• Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service
• Distinguished Service Award
• Procurement Manager of the Year
• Procurement Specialist of the Year

Deadline to submit is March 24.

NOMINATE TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Maija Lampinen, NIGP-CPP, CPP
Procurement and Contracts Manager
Port of Everett, WA

During times of crisis, the procurement community really pulls together.

I was able to work with my local chapter to find out where people were sourcing certain PPEs such as hand sanitizers by local distilleries.

As a result, I was able to provide for folks in my community and share this knowledge with other entities.

That’s one of the reasons, I PROCURE ON.

---

CELEBRATIONS

The Results Are In
Congratulations to our New NIGP-CPPs

The February testing results are in and we're excited to recognize the 53 professionals who successfully attained the competency-based qualifications set forth by the NIGP Certification Commission for public procurement leaders and earned NIGP Certified Procurement Professional certification (NIGP-CPP). 

That's 1,050 NIGP Certified Public Procurement Professionals in less than 3 years. Thank you to everyone who helped make this program a success.

NEW NIGP-CPPS 

---

PROCUREMENT MONTH SPECIALS

1. Save 20%
On-Demand Core Certificate: Foundations of Sourcing & Contracting

(Includes all four On-Demand Competency Modules)

• Specification Development
• Evaluation Methods
• Negotiations
• Sourcing and Contracting Methods

Member Price: $360 Special $288
Non-Member: $410 Special $328
Contact Hours: 12.5 | CEUs: 1.25

REGISTER NOW until March 31. 

2. FREE On-Demand NIGP-CPP Assessment Tool Module A Exam Prep Only 

This interactive tool provides personalized insight into your procurement knowledge before you test. 

Receive immediate feedback on all 150 questions, so you'll know if your selections were right or wrong and learn why.

Price: $49; FREE to ALL

FREE NOW until March 31.

---

NIGP-CPP

Great news. Certification pays.

According to the 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Survey, certification status can increase earning potential.

For example, certified purchasing managers earn approximately $86,000, while those without certification earn approximately $75,000. 

59% of individual respondents reported that they hold procurement-specific certifications. Managers and directors are more likely to be certified than others. Approximately 74%-78% of director respondents said they hold certifications.

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

From the Utah Chapter of NIGP

Governor Cox declared March as Utah Purchasing Month. At the March chapter meeting, attended by approximately 50 individuals in-person and another 41 attending virtually, the Buyer of the Year and Manager of the Year awards were announced.

Please join us in congratulating:

Buyer of the Year: Gayle Christensen, Senior Buyer, Canyon School District 

Manager of the Year: Terri O’Toole, Director of Procurement and Supply Chain, University of Utah 

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCE

NIGP Mentorship Program -  Shaping Your Future 

This program pairs public procurement professionals with more experienced NIGP members who can provide guidance on professional development opportunities and offer other career-related advice. 

This cohort uses NIGP's new online mentoring software for quick and easy matching. If you're interested in participating in this program, email mentorship@nigp.org.

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Buying Allowance - A supplier's reduction to an entity in the price of goods already purchased and delivered without a requirement for the entity to return the goods.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

BECOME A PART OF THE NIGP CERTIFICATION COMMISSION

The NIGP Talent Council is recruiting leaders to fill three (3) public procurement practitioner positions on the NIGP CERTIFICATION COMMISSION.

If you wish to be considered for this volunteer role, please submit the following two documents: 

1.  LETTER OF INTEREST - explain why you are a good candidate to serve on the NIGP Certification Commission, please email your Letter of Interest to Helen Leonard (hleonard@nigp.org)

2.  COMPLETED  NIGP VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM
Contact Helen Leonard, Governance Manager, if you have any questions by email (hleonard@nigp.org) or call (800) 367-6447 x240.

Deadline to Submit: March 22, 2023

 

PROCURE ON
March is Procurement Month

This month we celebrate public procurement professionals and the incredible work you do.

Our theme for Procurement Month is PROCURE ON because no matter what happens public procurement professionals PROCURE ON.

Whether it's supply chain issues, a major snowstorm or a reduction in staff,  you PROCURE ON to find the right solution whatever the situation.

We've created a series of videos which we'll share during the month that highlight some of the ways you PROCURE ON. 

VIEW VIDEO

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Nathan Daou, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, C.P.M., A.P.P.
Procurement Administrator
City of Tucson Business Services Department, AZ

Nathan Daou is the Procurement Administrator for the City of Tucson, AZ.  He has been an active member of the Copper Chapter of NIGP throughout his 22 years in public procurement.  He was awarded the NIGP Manager of the Year Award in 2019.  In 2021, Nathan became a Director of the National Procurement Institute in order to contribute to the profession in a new way.

In 2015, out of their passion for the Procurement profession, Nathan and his colleague at the City of Tucson, Victoria Cortinas, embarked on a journey to promote a dedicated day to recognize and celebrate procurement professionals.  Originally named “Professional Buyers’ Day”, the name of the day has been changed this year to “Procurement Professionals’ Day” in order to be more inclusive of the many different titles that the members of our profession work under.  The day creates an opportunity to take the Procurement function, which often works quietly behind the scenes in our organizations, and bring it center stage.  Procurement departments can use this opportunity to celebrate their “Proc Stars”, but they can also use it to strategically market all the value they can bring to the rest of their agency, as well as the important role procurement professionals play in building trust with the communities we serve.    

Nathan doesn’t miss an opportunity to share his passion for the procurement profession.  You may have seen his posts on NSite each year encouraging others to make the most of the opportunity Procurement Professionals’ Day provides and suggesting ideas for how to celebrate it. 

---

CELEBRATIONS

Congratulations
Today is Procurement Professionals' Day
March 8, 2023

Thanks to the efforts of Nathan and Victoria, the second Wednesday of March has been declared Procurement Professionals' Day (changed from Professional Buyer's Day to be more inclusive of the many different titles we find in the profession). 

This dedicated day provides procurement departments with the opportunity to strategically market all the value they bring to their agency and the important role procurement professionals play in building trust with the communities they serve.

NIGP's website currently features proclamations from the City of Tucson, AZ, Copper Chapter of NIGP, the Oregon Public Purchasing Association, and the National Procurement Institute (NPI) which officially recognize your day. 

LEARN MORE

---

PROCUREMENT MONTH SPECIALS

1. Save 20%
On-Demand Core Certificate: Foundations of Sourcing & Contracting

(Includes all four On-Demand Competency Modules)

• Specification Development
• Evaluation Methods
• Negotiations
• Sourcing and Contracting Methods

Member Price: $360 Special $288
Non-Member: $410 Special $328
Contact Hours: 12.5 | CEUs: 1.25

REGISTER NOW until March 31. 

2. FREE On-Demand NIGP-CPP Assessment Tool Module A Exam Prep Only 

This interactive tool provides personalized insight into your procurement knowledge before you test. 

Receive immediate feedback on all 150 questions, so you'll know if your selections were right or wrong and learn why.

Price: $49; FREE to ALL

FREE NOW until March 31.

---

NIGP-CPP

Drumroll Please...We've Achieved Another Milestone 

The February testing results are in and we're pleased to announce there are now 1,050 NIGP-CPP certificants across 45 states and 5 provinces.

The threshold of 1,000 certificants was achieved in less than 3 years despite an extended pandemic that impacted the workplace. NIGP-CPP is the only certification that specifically targets mid to executive level procurement leaders.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this certification program a success.

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

VA Assoc. of Governmental Purchasing (VAGP)
Spring Conference and Business Showcase
MARCH 12-15 | Norfolk, VA

Tennessee Association of Public Purchasing
Spring Professional Development Conference
APRIL 12-14 | Memphis, TN 

Arkansas Chapter
Conference and Vendor Expo
APRIL 19-21 | Little Rock, AR

Michigan Public Purchasing Officers Association
Reverse Trade Show
APRIL 28 | Lansing, MI 

READ MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Job Board - Career Opportunities For You

Whether you're looking for a job or recruiting for your entity, you can benefit from the NIGP Job Board. It's your best resource for career opportunities exclusively for public  procurement professionals.

All NIGP members can search for or post open roles on the NIGP electronic job board. Postings are free to member agencies and are valid for 45 days.

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Time Utility - The added value that results when a supplier makes a good or service available at a convenient or desirable time for customers.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

RADIO NIGP

Theme: Public Procurement Impact and Engagement

This month's segment features a Procurement Month welcome from NIGP CEO, Rick Grimm and stories about the impact public procurement has on topics such as: Waster Water, Hurricane Response, Surplus Property, and more.

Regular segments include: 

Good in Orange -  a story about attempted fraud by an Atlanta Georgia businessman

Moments with NIGP – what it’s like to be an elected representative on the Member Council

Way to Grow - a discussion about the NIGP Public Procurement Associate Designation

VIEW BROADCAST

IT'S PROCUREMENT MONTH
Celebrating you and all you do

This year's theme for Procurement Month is PROCURE ON. It describes exactly what you do because no matter the challenge, no matter the circumstance, public procurement professionals PROCURE ON.

Your selfless determination enables you to make what seems impossible, possible. We applaud all that you do and thank you for the positive difference you make in our communities and in our world.

This month is all about you. Share your amazing accomplishments with public officials and the tax payers you serve. Forward your proclamations, resolutions, photos, and activities to cpatin@nigp.org to post on our website for all to see and celebrate.

VIEW VIDEO

---

PROCUREMENT MONTH SPECIALS

1. FREE Essential Skills Learning Lab
Free to Members Only

MARCH 14 – Communication, Collaboration & Active Listening
(75 seats available)

Price: $79 FREE (Members Only)
Use Discount Code: 2023LLMARCH

Special pricing made possible by the generous support of our government partner Sourcewell.

REGISTER TODAY

2. Save 20%
On-Demand Core Certificate: Foundations of Sourcing & Contracting

(Includes all four On-Demand Competency Modules)

• Specification Development
• Evaluation Methods
• Negotiations
• Sourcing and Contracting Methods

Member Price: $360 Special $288
Non-Member: $410 Special $328
Contact Hours: 12.5 | CEUs: 1.25

REGISTER NOW until March 31. 

3. FREE On-Demand NIGP-CPP Assessment Tool Module A Exam Prep Only 

This interactive tool provides personalized insight into your procurement knowledge before
you test. 

Receive immediate feedback on all 75 questions, so you'll know if your selections were right or wrong and learn why.

Price: $49; FREE to ALL

FREE NOW until March 31.

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Ezzard Spencer, NIGP-CPP, FCCN, FCCM
Procurement Director
City of Plantation, FL

PROCURE ON....

The City of Plantation (like many other agencies) has been faced with challenges when trying to procure fleet vehicle(s). Typically, the City would competitively solicit for vehicles, providing for an opportunity to local and non-local dealerships to submit a competitive bid. However, given the supply chain shortages, and short ordering windows, the City was faced with finding an alternative way to PROCURE ON, while still adhering to our local, and state laws.

This was Procurement's opportunity to find an innovative solution. First, we researched local and National Co-Op contracts and vendors, then State contracts and vendors, and finally we even called local dealership directly to inquire if they fleet vehicles sitting on their lots that an agency opted not to procure.  This process rendered some success, but then we requested to be on a call list with these same vendors.  Asking if a vehicle of a particular make and model became available (on or off contract) to give us a call.

Through the use of the City's competitive procurement exemption process, keen negotiation skills, devotion and dedication to PROCURE ON and support from our City Administration and Legislative Body, the City of Plantation has been able to obtain a majority of the vehicles that we need to continue an effective and efficient operation.

The lesson to be taken from this situation, is that if you continue to do normal things, you will get normal results.  In my opinion, procurement staff was extraordinarily resourceful, and kept an open mind to find a solution(s) to the problem, and for that reason they got extraordinary results.

PROCURE ON, Procurement Professionals

---

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Individual Member Awards 
Call for Nominations Now Open

It's Procurement Month and there's no better time to nominate a colleague (or yourself) for doing an outstanding job. Take a few minutes to nominate that special person who is always willing to help, to offer guidance and to provide support. It's been an incredible year...get recognized!

Prestigious NIGP Awards Include:

• Albert H. Hall Memorial Award
• Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service
• Award Distinguished Service
• Award Procurement Manager of the Year
• Procurement Specialst of the Year

Deadline to submit is March 24.

NOMINATE TODAY

---

NIGP-CPP

What NIGP-CPPs Say

“The NIGP-CPP certification is inclusive and the content really promotes critical thinking which is  essential in our profession.”
Stephanie Dion, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Saskatchewan Urban Municipal Association -
Kinetic GPO, Lorette West, MB

“I would encourage all procurement professionals to seek the NIGP-CPP certification as demonstration of competence, knowledge, and skills to excel as a leader in the procurement profession.”
Travis Pierce, NIGP-CPP, MBA, CLGPO, CPPO, CPPB
Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, NC

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

NIGP Chapter Awards & Recognition 

We encourage chapters to showcase their professional development opportunities.

That's why we've created a two-layered approach to recognizing the accomplishments of our chapters:

• Chapter Performance Standards Seal
• Outstanding Chapter Awards

Deadline to Submit is May 22.

Application coming soon. NIGP Chapter Members don't forget to nominate colleagues or yourself for one of NIGP's Individual Awards. 

READ MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Research Report - 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Study

The study provides comparative compensation information to help industry leaders classify public procurement positions and determine appropriate salary ranges. 

The findings show sustained increases in public procurement salaries across the board. However, key variables (e.g., entity type, gender, certification) can have a significant impact on what individuals earn.

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Law of Demand - An economic principle stating that if all other factors are constant, price and demand for a good or service are inversely related. As price increases, demand falls, and as price decreases, demand increases. 

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

 

NIGP FORUM 2023 
Where more happens...

NIGP Forum is the premier public procurement event in North America. It's where more public procurement discussions take place, more like-minded professionals gather (in-person and virtually), and where you can access more educational content with 60+ procurement-related sessions, more networking sessions with peers, and where you make more connections with suppliers during the exhibition.  

Although we’ve added more, we've kept the in-person early fee the same as last year due to member feedback.

In-Person, Louisville, KY | August 19 - 23
$897 Members (until May 31)
$1,122 Non-Members (until May 31)

Virtual | August 21 - 23
$299 Members
$399 Non-Members

LEARN MORE

---

PRESENTER SPOTLIGHT

Lee Hubert
Leadership Trainer, Coach, Facilitator & Speaker

Lee is the founder of Managers Success LLC, and the author of Behind the Manager’s Closed Door-Lessons in Managerial Leadership. He draws from over 25 years of experience in human resources and leadership development roles and is the presenter of our upcoming Essential Skills Learning Lab. 

Communication/Collaboration/Active Listening
March 14 | 2-4PM (ET) 
Join Lee for an engaging session that explores the 5 levels of listening and different communication styles. Get ready to be surprised at what you find out.

Spoiler Alert: Did you know that 70-90% of communication is nonverbal?

---

CELEBRATIONS

Radio NIGP 
"Preparing for Procurement Month"

The month of March celebrates the public procurement profession. To help you prepare properly, the Radio NIGP staff highlights some low or no budget ideas for celebrating the profession. 

The 'Legally Speaking' segment explains the importance of seeking Resolutions or other official acts to bring attention to this great profession and what you accomplish. It's also a good time to consider seeking changes in your procurement codes during Procurement Month.

Other features include the value of volunteerism, mentorship and so much more. 

Happy 2nd Anniversary to Radio NIGP!

LEARN MORE

---

NIGP-CPP

Why NIGP-CPP?

NIGP-CPP is the only certification that is anchored in the Public Procurement Competency Framework. The Framework is rooted in research produced by the Volcker Alliance that seeks effective public service through workforce competencies. 

NIGP-CPP is the only competency-based certification built on a modular exam that expands beyond public procurement’s technical aspects and assesses the more holistic competencies needed to be a successful leader within a public entity, embracing elements of leadership, business principles, and procurement strategy.

LEARN MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapters play a vital role at NIGP

When you become a member in a local NIGP chapter, you gain access to a local network of procurement professionals who can help you advance in your career, develop critical leadership skills, and create change that positively impacts your community.

Schedule Your Chapter Visits 

Don't forget to invite your Chapter Ambassadors or the NIGP Business Council to your chapter event. To schedule a visit please fill out the VISIT REQUEST FORM. NIGP has provided a CONTENT DESCRIPTION for all Business Council requests. 

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP's Global Best Practices provide guidance on procurement processes, procedures and important topics to ensure you're equipped with the information you need to succeed. Recently published Global Best Practices include: 

• Establishing an Effective Supplier Diversity Program 
• Procurement’s Role in the Use of Non-Emergency Federal Funds 
• Achieving an Optimal pCard  Program

 

LEARN MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Business Interruption Insurance - Insurance coverage that replaces the lost income of a business from physical damage or loss, e.g., fire, flooding, natural disaster, epidemic, labor unrest.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms, a comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

FORUM 2023 SCHOLARSHIPS
Apply by March 7, 2023 

Thanks to our government partner, Sourcewell, we're offering NIGP Forum 2023 scholarships to cover registration fees for those who lack the funds.

Applicants can choose to apply for one of the following scholarships:

Attend Forum In Person in Louisville, Kentucky
August 19 – 23, 2023
The scholarship covers the early registration fee of $897.

Or

Attend Virtual Forum
August 21 – 23, 2023
The scholarship covers the registration fee of $299.

READ MORE

---

FORUM 2023 CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS
Only 2 Days Left to Submit

Submissions due Friday, February 17.

Do you have a topic you're passionate about and want to share with your peers? Don't miss your opportunity.

We're looking for a range of topics and session levels from Fundamental to Advanced within these preliminary content themes:

Cornerstones of Public Procurement - overarching discussions focused on the core components of public procurement such as contract compliance, negotiations, ethics, and federal programs to name a few. 

Leadership - sessions focused on the skills needed to tackle everyday leadership challenges such as crititcal thinking, emotional intelligence, diversity and inclusion.

READ MORE

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet the New Chapter Ambassador for Area 3
Amanda Greer, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Statewide Procurement Analyst II
Kentucky Division of Engineering & Contract Administration

Amanda has been in procurement for nearly 24 years, and a member of NIGP and the Kentucky Public Procurement Association (KPPA) since the beginning. She’s been fortunate to have supervisors and mentors who were adamant about the importance of both organizations to the advancement of her career.

Amanda served on the KPPA Board of Directors from 2010-2018 and again beginning in 2021 to the present. She was also a member of the NIGP Member Council from its inception until terming off in June, 2022.

She has spent most of the past 17 years with the Kentucky Division of Engineering and Contract Administration, where they manage the Commonwealth’s capital construction.

---

CELEBRATIONS

NCPP Above & Beyond Awards
Deadline to Submit is March 20, 2023

The National Cooperative Procurement Partners (NCPP) recognizes stars in public procurement who have gone Above & Beyond in their procurement role. With all that's happened in the past few years, all heroes in procurement - be it the Director, Buyer I, or Stockroom Clerk - deserve recognition.

Submit your nomination to Tammy Rimes at Tammy.Rimes@NCPPAssociation.org with your nominee's name, title, agency, and email along iwth a couple of paragraphs about their Above & Beyond performance.

READ MORE

---

NIGP-CPP

1,550+ Approved NIGP-CPP Candidates & Counting

NIGP-CPP is the only certification that specifically targets mid to executive level procurement leaders.

Eligibility
There are six eligibility pathways, and you must be eligible for one of these pathways to apply for the NIGP-CPP.

Please review the NIGP-CPP CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK, for detailed information about the specific education and employment requirements for each eligibility pathway.

Free Webinar
Join us and learn firsthand how NIGP-CPP can move your career forward. 

Webinar: NIGP Certified Procurement Professional - Connecting Certification to Your Learning and Career Aspirations

MARCH 1 | 2PM - 3:30PM (ET)

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

Whether it's a Reverse Trade Show, or seasonal conference, Chapters are engaging with procurement professionals and suppliers within their own communities. 

Rocky Mt. Gov'tl. Purchasing Assoc. (RMGPA)
Spring Conference
FEBRUARY 23 | Denver, CO

NC Association of Governmental Purchasing
Spring Conference
MARCH 6-9 | Wilmington, NC

VA Assoc. of Governmental Purchasing (VAGP)
Spring Conference and Business Showcase
MARCH 12-15 | Norfolk, VA

Tennessee Association of Public Purchasing
Spring Professional Development Conference
APRIL 12-14 | Memphis, TN 

READ MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCE

Nsite - Your Online Community. Connect, communicate and collaborate with peers from across the country at all different stages in their careers.

Choose from over 50 special interest communities created by you and for you. Share ideas, challenges and opportunities 24/7.

LEARN MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Externality - A benefit or cost borne by a third party but not by the producer.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

IT'S OFFICIAL...
Forum 2023 Registration Is Open 

Last week's technical difficulties have been resolved and we're ready, willing and excited to open registration to NIGP Forum 2023. 

This year's theme is "Where more happens..."it's where you get access to more educational content with 60+ procurement-related sessons, more networking, more insights, and more relationships are made with colleagues and 200+ exhibitors.  

We understand your budget contraints, so we've kept the in-person early fee the same as last year.

In-Person, Louisville, KY | August 19 - 23
$897 Members (until May 31)
$1,122 Non-Members (until May 31)
Contact Hours: 18.5

Virtual | August 21 - 23
$299 Members
$399 Non-Members
Contact Hours: 16.5

Thanks to our government partner Sourcewell, we're offering NIGP Forum 2023 scholarships to cover registration fees for those who lack the funds. 

REGISTER TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet the New Chapter Ambassador for Area 3
Amy Monroe, CPPB

Amy Monroe is the Director for the Good and Service Division within the Finance and Administration Cabinet, Office of Procurement Services (OPS).  Although she began her public procurement career with OPS in 2001, Amy has worked for various state agencies handling a diverse assortment of procurements.

She is an active member of NIGP, the Kentucky Public Procurement Association (KPPA), and the National Association of State Procurement Officials (NASPO).  Amy served on the KPPA Board of Directors in multiple capacities from 2008-2018 and 2022 (Treasurer 2012 & 2013; Vice-President 2016 & 2017; President 2018). In 2020 Amy was named the KPPA Manager of the Year. 

Amy earned her Certified Public Procurement Buyer (CPPB) in 2005 and is a 2000 graduate of Midway College where is earned degrees in Business Administration and Computer Information Systems (CIS).

Amy lives in Columbia, Kentucky and in her spare time enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time with her family on their boat.

---

CELEBRATIONS

Striving for Excellence in Procurement 
The Accreditation for Quality Public Procurement Departments (QPPD)

QPPD Accreditation communicates the value of your procurement department to internal and external stakeholders. 

Congratulations to these distinguished public agencies who recently earned the coveted QPPD accreditation:

• City of Palm Beach Gardens, FL
• Knoxville Community Development Corporation - The Public Housing and Development Authority

Read the Complete List

---

NIGP-CPP

Certification Pays

According to the 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Survey, certification status can increase earning potential.

For example, certified assistant buyers earn approximately $57,000, while those without certification earn approximately $46,000. For purchasing managers, those with certification earn approximately $86,000, while those without earn approximately $75,000. 

Approximately 74%-78% of director respondents said they hold certifications.

Read more

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter Academy February 2 – 5 | St. Louis, MO

Chapter Leaders were part of a new leadership learning experience, NIGP Leadership Summit. For the first time, NIGP brought together procurement professional from various stages to participate in three leadership programs: the Chapter Academy for Chapter leaders, Leaders Edge for emerging leaders, and Leading for Impact for senior and experienced leaders.

Over 85 Chapter Leaders representing 54 NIGP Chapters joined us in St. Louis for our Chapter Academy program where the theme was “Leading through Action”.

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Webinars provide valuable learning on hot topics in procurement, helping you stay informed.  And, they're better than ever with 60% more content which means more contact hours to meet your professional learning goals.

Plus, they're geared to learners at all levels and complement other NIGP learning resources.

View Upcoming Webinars

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Horizontal Integration - The merger of organizations or functions that are operating in the same industry and at similar levels.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. A  comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

NCPP ABOVE & BEYOND AWARDS

Submission Deadline: March 20, 2023

The National Cooperative Procurement Partners (NCPP) recognizes stars in public procurement who have gone Above & Beyond in their procurement role. With all that's happened in the past few years, all heroes in procurement - be it the Director, Buyer I, or Stockroom Clerk - deserve recognition.

Submit your nomination to Tammy Rimes at Tammy.Rimes@NCPPAssociation.org with your nominee's name, title, agency, and email along iwth a couple of paragraphs about their Above & Beyond performance.

Read more

 

JOIN US FOR NIGP FORUM 2023
Where more happens...

In-Person - August 19 - 23 | Virtual - August 21 - 23

NIGP Forum continues to offer members choice and flexibility to participate in the largest public procurement focused conference in North America. 

We heard you loud and clear about budgets, so we've maintained our early member registration fees from last year and scholarships are available. 

In-Person, Louisville, KY | August 19 - 23
$897 Members (until May 31)
$1,122 Non-Members (until May 31)
Contact Hours: 18.5

Virtual  | August 21 - 23
$299 Members
$399 Non-Members
Contact Hours: 16.5

Expect more, receive more, whether you join us

in-person or virtually.  
REGISTER TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet the New Chapter Ambassador for Area 5
Tara Camp, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Senior Purchasing Manager
Non-Capital Program & Materials Management
Tampa International Airport, FL

Tara Camp is the Senior Manager of Non-Capital Programs and Materials Management at Tampa International Airport in Tampa, Florida.  Her role at the Airport is to oversee all non-capital formal solicitations, benchmarking, PCard program, and new technology initiatives within Procurement.  Tara as served on the Tampa Bay Area Chapter of NIGP board for 9 years and currently serves as the Vice Chair on NIGP’s Pipeline and Placement Committee.  During Tara’s time serving on the Tampa Bay Area Chapter of NIGP board, Tara created initiatives such as a virtual study group, the Warren Geltch Lifetime Achievement Award, thank you gift cards to volunteers, the Rookie of the Year Award, and First-Timers Scholarship.  As a newly appointed Chapter Ambassador for Area 5, Tara is excited to share with chapters throughout Florida what NIGP has to offer and how to get members involved with the chapter and NIGP.  During her free time she enjoys spending time with outdoors with her husband and their four (4) dogs.

---

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Thanks These Entities For Their Dedication and Milestone Membership With Us.

Celebrating 75 Years
City of Coral Gables, FL
City of Hartford, CT
City of Norfolk, VA

Celebrating 70 Years
City of Norwich, CT
Maricopa County, AZ

Celebrating 65 Years
City of Baltimore - Bureau of Procurement, MD
City of Tucson, AZ
Miami Dade County Strategic Procurement Department, FL
Norfolk Public Schools, VA
State of Alaska

READ MORE

---

NIGP-CPP

1,550+ Approved NIGP-CPP Candidates & Counting...

NIGP-CPP uniquely connects your learning and career aspirations. It's the only certification that specifically targets mid to executive level procurement leaders in the public sector and is refreshed by ongoing research which keeps the certification relevant to what the market needs. 

FREE NIGP-CPP Webinars
Learn how this future-focused certification can move your career forward. 

Webinar: NIGP Certified Procurement Professional - Connecting Certification to Your Learning and Career Aspirations

FEBRUARY 8 | MARCH 1 | 2PM - 3:30PM (ET)

May testing window now open, register and pay today.

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

NIGP Chapter Website Solution Growing
More Launches Coming Soon

The NIGP Chapter Website Solution offers an effective way to manage and communicate with your chapter members. We're pleased to announce the launch of these Chapter Websites: .

• Copper Chapter
• Dallas Fort Worth Chapter
• El Paso Chapter
• Illinois Association of Public Procurement Officials (IAPPO)
• Missouri Association of Public Purchasing
• Northern California Chapter
• Rocky Mountain Governmental Purchasing Association
• Southeast Louisiana Chapter (SELA)
• Tampa Bay Area Chapter
• Tennessee Association of Public Purchasing (TAPP)
• Washington State Chapter

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Member Directory - a valuable resource to connect and consult with like-minded procurement professionals from across the country and Canada.

Search the 16,000+ member directory by organization type, geographic location and so
much more.

There's no better time to build strong meaningful connections that can have a positive impact in our lives today and into the future. 

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Repudiation - 1. Rejection on the grounds of being unauthorized or having no binding force. 2. Disputing the validity of a contract and refusing to honor its terms.

From our NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. A  comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

READ MORE

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS
Submit by February 17

Do you have a topic you're passionate about and want to share with your peers? Well, now's your chance.

We're looking for a range of topics and session levels from Fundamental to Advanced within these preliminary content themes:

Cornerstones of Public Procurement - overarching discussions focused on the core components of public procurement 

Leadership - sessions focused on the skills needed to tackle everyday leadership challenges

NIGP Forum 2023
In-Person August 20 - 23 | Virtual August 21 - 23

LEARN MORE

---

PRESENTER SPOTLIGHT

Kisha Dixon
Award-Winning Learning Consultant and Diversity Practitioner

As a training leader, public speaker, and culture change agent, Kisha has over 20 years of experience designing and facilitating behavior-based sales, coaching, and leadership solutions.

Her refreshingly unique approach recognizes that identifying the specific rhythms in an organization’s culture is the key to creating visible, empowering leadership and culture change.

Critical Thinking: Essential Skills Learning Lab
Join Kisha on February 14 from 2-4PM as she presents this dynamic session. Discover why thinking critically can help solve problems in work and life.

LEARN MORE

---

CELEBRATIONS

Welcome New NIGP Members
We look forward to serving you

Agency

Ontario International Airport Authority
El Camino Community College District, CA
Greene County Highway Department, NY
Oklahoma Arts Council
Clark Public Utilities, WA
County of Solano, CA

Contracted Procurement Professionals

Crosby Grindle - Bend, OR
Missy Mudry - Gilbert, AZ
Maureen Salman - North Tonawanda, NY

Individuals

Lola Allsup - Chino Valley, AZ
Rodney Brown - Tampa, FL
Lynette Calkins - Baltimore, MD
Patti Caluette - Colorado Springs, CO
Jocelyn Cartwright, CPPB - Kamloops, BC
Melanie Dijkstra - Salt Lake City, UT
Anthony Ferguson - Harker Heights, TX
Michelle Foden, NIGP-CPP, CPPB - Edmonton, AB
Geeta Gillespie, SCMP - Castlegar. BC
Grant Herdrich - Taylorsville, UT
David Holmes - Sant Albans, NY
Carla Hommel, CPPB, Baytown, TX
Dana Kohl - Jefferson City, MO
Naomi Lawrence-Lee - Fresno, TX
Gwendolyn Martin, CPPB - Oklahoma City, OK
Amber Miller - Gonzales, LA
Christian Noel - Pembroke Park, FL
Sally Ragsdale - Henrico, VA
Madelynn Ries - Salt Lake City, UT
Leili Samuelson - Cibolo, TX
Tiffany Sloane, CTCM, CTCD - Austin, TX    
Noel Vivaldi - South Riding, VA
Amber Willis - Jefferson City, MO

---

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Scores "World Class"

We're thrilled to report that, according to ratings from our NIGP-CPP testers, the NIGP Certified Procurement Professional program earned "World Class" Net Promoter Scores throughout 2022. The Net Promoter Score® (NPS) is the gold standard of customer experience metrics worldwide and measures both customer perception and how likely a client would recommend a product or program to their colleagues or peers.

Following best practices, a candidate satisfaction survey is sent to every NIGP-CPP tester after each testing window ends. One of the survey questions we ask is “How likely are you to recommend the NIGP-CPP certification to your peers or colleagues?” These responses are the basis for the Net Promoter Scores for the NIGP-CPP.  For a two-year-old certification program, this is very high praise from our NIGP-CPP candidates!

Managing and administering a recognized and respected certification program is very important as we continue to grow and strengthen the NIGP-CPP certification for mid to executive level leaders in the procurement field. We thank everyone who helped make this certification program a success! We are grateful for the NIGP Certification Commission, the Institute, the NIGP-CPP volunteers and subject matter experts, our nearly 1,000 NIGP-CPP recipients, our NIGP-CPP candidates, and the agencies and organizations supporting the NIGP-CPP certification. Together we're elevating the procurement profession through this coveted certification.

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

Whether it's a Reverse Trade Show, or seasonal conference, Chapters are engaging with procurement professionals and suppliers within their own communities. 

Rocky Mt. Gov'tl. Purchasing Assoc. (RMGPA)
Spring Conference
FEBRUARY 23 | Denver, CO

NC Association of Governmental Purchasing
Spring Conference
MARCH 6-9 | Wilmington, NC

VA Assoc. of Governmental Purchasing (VAGP)
Spring Conference and Business Showcase
MARCH 12-15 | Norfolk, VA

READ MORE

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Research Report - NEW 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Study

The study provides comparative compensation information to help industry leaders classify public procurement positions and determine appropriate salary ranges.

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) - A metric that compares the equivalent purchasing power of various countries' currencies with one another.

From our 2022 Edition of NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. A  comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

RADIO NIGP

January 2023: Onboarding Employees

Radio NIGP shares tips that can help with Onboarding New Employees including;

• Techniques for in person and the virtual world (along with a cautionary tale of remote working gone wrong)
• Coaching tips including using a checklist
• Being the “new kid on the block”
• Onboarding your new Chapter Officers

Other features:

Moments with NIGP -  Todd Slater provides important details about the Forum 2023 Call for Presentations.
Procurement Pioneers – Interview with Albert H. Hall Award and  Distinguished Service Award recipient Dr. Stephen B. Gordon.

VIEW RADIO NIGP

LEADING FOR IMPACT
It's Not Too Late To Register

There's still time to register for Leading for Impact, our program designed for our more experienced leaders where you will dive deeply into the most crucial topics impacting your role and entity.

• Leading strategically and driving for results
• Leading in times of change
• Identifying and building talent

Plus, we have two of the most sought after professionals in this space, Francis Jay Caputo, CMC and Ralph Campbell, CMC bringing decades of experience across industries and organization types to this program.

Leading For Impact

In-Person Program | February 2 - 5
St. Louis, MO
16.5 Contact Hours

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SPECIAL SAVINGS ON GROUP REGISTRATION

REGISTER TODAY

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Meet the New Chapter Ambassador for Area 5 
Cindy Norton, CPPB
Deputy Dir. of Purchasing and Contract Admin. 
Santa Rosa County School Board, FL

Cindy has proudly served the Santa Rosa County School District for over 31 years. She began working in public procurement in January 2000 and was awarded the District's School Related Employee of the Year in 2007.

Cindy is a member of the Central Gulf Coast Chapter of NIGP (CGCC) where she's held numerous positions that include: President (5 years), Vice President, Board Member, Bylaw, Fundraising, Awards & Nominating, and Membership Committees.  In 2021, she was awarded the Manager of the Year. 

---

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Member Orientation Webinar
344 Registrants and Counting 

Attend this FREE Webinar and gain a better understanding of all the NIGP member benefits that are available to you. 

Get the most out of your membership and take advantage of the professional development opportunities that have been designed specifically for you. Whether you're new to the profession or an experienced leader, there's always something to learn.

NIGP's Member Council and staff will share what's available to you now and what you can expect in the coming year. 

REGISTER TODAY

---

NIGP-CPP

Great news. Certification pays.

According to the 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Survey, certification status can increase earning potential.

For example, certified purchasing managers earn approximately $86,000, while those without certification earn approximately $75,000. 

59% of individual respondents reported that they hold procurement-specific certifications. Managers and directors are more likely to be certified than others. Approximately 74%-78% of director respondents said they hold certifications.

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter reporting forms due January 31

Chapter Leadership

List current Chapter Leaders. NIGP policy requires that the Chapter President, Vice President, and either the Secretary or Treasurer hold an NIGP individual or agency membership.

Leadership Reporting Form

Chapter Member Data
This form reports the total number of chapter members for year 2023 by dual members, chapter-only members, student and retired members.
Chapter Member Data Form (for a list of NIGP members in your state, complete the form and email jsteffan@nigp.org.)

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP's Global Best Practices provide guidance on procurement processes, procedures and important topics to ensure you're equipped with the information you need to succeed. Recent Global Best Practices include: 

• Establishing an Effective Supplier Diversity Program 
• Procurement’s Role in the Use of Non-Emergency Federal Funds 
• Achieving an Optimal pCard  Program
   

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Horizontal Integration - The merger of organizations or functions that are operating in the same industry and at similar levels.

From our 2022 Edition of NIGP Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. A  comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries of the most common industry terms and definitions. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

LEADING FOR IMPACT

Invest in Yourself & Your Entity 

Join us in St. Louis and invest in your professional development. Meet with leaders from all areas of procurement who are likely experiencing the same challenges that you and your entity are facing. Leading for Impact is specifically designed to help our more senior practitioners meet these challenges as you discuss and learn from and with each other. 

Leading For Impact

In-Person Program | February 2 - 5
St. Louis, MO
16.5 Contact Hours

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF SPECIAL SAVINGS ON GROUP REGISTRATION

Learn more

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Mohamad Alkadry, Ph.D.
Professor and Public Policy Department Head
University of Connecticut

In 2022, NIGP asked its members to report current salary data about key procurement positions for its biennial Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Study. First published in 2003, the study provides comparative compensation information to help industry leaders classify public procurement positions and determine appropriate salary ranges. On February 15 from 2PM – 3:30PM Mohamad Alkadry, PhD, director of the University of Connecticut School of Public Policy and author of the study, will report his findings and their implications during a free webinar entitled: Compensation & Personnel Trends in Public Procurement.

In addition to collecting salary data about 17 key procurement positions, the survey of 2,500 public procurement professionals provides breakdowns for key variables that may affect how much an individual earns, including entity type, education, and certifications. Dr. Alkadry will highlight the study’s main findings, including the sustained increase in procurement salaries (a cumulative rise of 19% to 78% during the past 20 years), the outsized effect of gender on salary amount (women earn 12% less than their male counterparts), and the alarming rate of retirement among industry leaders (nearly 10% of directors say they plan to retire within the next year).

Dr. Alkadry says that NIGP’s compensation study allows managers to set pay scales that are competitive and yield successful searches, and it enables employees to determine whether they are paid fairly for their work. He adds that the study’s retention data “provides the entire public procurement profession a heads-up on availability of labor in the market and the likely competition that exists.”

“Salaries are rising,” says Dr. Alkadry, “but they are not rising as rapidly as salaries have risen in the private industry, which leaves the public procurement workforce too vulnerable to being poached from the private sector.”

Dr. Alkadry is also a member of the NIGP Certification Commission.

---

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Chapter Website Solution Growing
More Chapter Sites Launching Soon 

The NIGP Chapter Website Solution offers an effective way to manage and communicate with your chapter members. 

We're pleased to announce that we've successfully launched a total of 10 Chapter Websites. The newest websites include:

• Dallas Fort Worth Chapter
• Tampa Bay Area Chapter
• Northern California Chapter

The Washington State Chapter’s new site is scheduled to launch by February 1. 

---

NIGP-CPP

Registration and Payment for May 2023 Testing Is Open

The NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP) is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP.

Have you heard?

More and more employers are seeing NIGP-CPP as a marker of accomplishment. NIGP-CPP certification is included in the U.S. Department of Labor Credentials Center.

LEARN MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Welcome 7 New Chapter Ambassadors

Area 3 
Amanda Greer, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Amy Monroe, CPPB

Area 5 
Tara Camp, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Cindy Norton, CPPB

Area 7 
Alena Croy, CPFO, CPPO, CPO, CPPB, MBA
Jed Greenfield, CPA, CTCD, CTCM

Area 9 
Whitney Mugford-Smith, NIGP-CPP, CPPB

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Research Report - NEW 2022 Public Procurement Compensation & Retention Benchmark Study

The study provides comparative compensation information to help industry leaders classify public procurement positions and determine appropriate salary ranges.

READ MORE

FREE Webinar: Compensation & Personnel Trends in Public Procurement
February 15 | 2PM - 3:30PM 
Dr. Alkadry, author of the study, shares his findings and what they mean to you and your future.
REGISTER TODAY

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Canadian International Trade Tribunal (CITT) - A quasi-judicial body, with the powers of a superior court, in Canada’s trade remedy system with authority to conduct inquiries into complaints by potential suppliers concerning procurement by the federal government that is covered by International Trade Agreements.

The Tribunal also deals with challenges on Canadian government contracts arising under an international agreement.

From NIGP's Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

---

DID YOU KNOW?

Key Takeaways and Insights from our Cybersecurity Headliner 

Cyberattacks against local and state governments continue to rise, as criminals often see them as easy targets willing to pay ransom for stolen data.

Nathan Dawson, one of the presenters, suggested that entities continually monitor the location, nature, accessibility, and storage of their data to prevent against unnecessary risks: “Ask yourself: What data do we have? How sensitive is it? Where is it being stored? Is it replicated in multiple locations? Who has access to it? Do you regularly delete old data?”

READ MORE

NEW YEAR SPECIAL
LEADING FOR IMPACT

Group Registration Savings

Make leadership development a top priority for you and your entity in 2023. Join us in St. Louis and take advantage of special group registration savings for Leading for Impact:

1^st Member pays $800 for registration
2^nd Member pays $700 for registration ($100 Savings)
3^rd+ Members pay $600 for registration ($200 Savings)

Leading For Impact

In-Person Program | February 2 - 5
St. Louis, MO
16.5 Contact Hours

Leadership is not a destination but a journey, and continual learning plays a crucial role in your development and growth as a procurement professional. 

LEARN MORE

---

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Alisa DeHoyos, NIGP-CPP
Purchasing Manager,  City of Burbank, CA

As a recent NIGP-CPP recipient, here's what Alisa had to say.

“Thanks to NIGP for giving validation to those of us public procurement professionals who did not follow a traditional path to this career, but nevertheless, have successfully achieved a professional career in public procurement.

After a twenty-year career in procurement in the public and private sector, on both the selling and buying sides, it was enjoyable to move through the Public Procurement Associate and NIGP-CPP prep training.

This pathway not only re-affirmed my knowledge on the subject of public procurement, but enabled me to gain a credential which acknowledges my experience and knowledge on good public procurement practices.  I’m recommending this program to all of my employees who wish to engage in a successful public procurement career.”

---

CELEBRATIONS

Happy New Year! 
Attend More FREE Webinars 

Our webinars, always free to members, provide more content (and more contact hours) for your professional development. 

Upcoming January Webinars: 

Using a Functionality Matrix for Technology Procurement | JANUARY 18

NIGP Member Orientation | JANUARY 23

Increase Your Influence and Enhance Your Leadership | JANUARY 24

RFP Learning Lab Series Preview | JANUARY 25

READ MORE

---

NIGP-CPP

Why not pursue NIGP-CPP certification in 2023? 

The NIGP-CPP certification program can accelerate your career growth and success. 

Here are some basic facts about NIGP-CPP certification:

• Specifically targets mid to executive level public procurement leaders
• Based on competency vs. years of experience
• Offers flexibility and choice
• Integrates with NIGP Pathways curriculum
• Sets a new industry standard that's future-focused and committed to elevating the profession
   

READ MORE

---

CHAPTER NEWS

Chapter reporting forms due January 31

Chapter Leadership

List current Chapter Leaders. NIGP policy requires that the Chapter President, Vice President, and either the Secretary or Treasurer hold an NIGP individual or agency membership.

Leadership Reporting Form

Chapter Member Data
This form reports the total number of chapter members for year 2023 by dual members, chapter-only members, student and retired members.
Chapter Member Data Form (for a list of NIGP members in your state, complete the form and email jsteffan@nigp.org.)

---

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Job Board - Career Opportunities For You

Whether you're looking for a job or recruiting for your entity, you can benefit from the NIGP Job Board. It's your best resource for career opportunities exclusively for public  procurement professionals.

All NIGP members can search for or post open roles on the NIGP electronic job board. Postings are free to member agencies and are valid for 45 days.

READ MORE

---

WORD OF THE WEEK

Replenishment Inventory Control System - A system that relies on estimated usage rates and lead time to schedule orders for delivery to maintain supply chain efficiency and avoid stock outages.

From NIGP's Public Procurement Dictionary of Terms. A  comprehensive and timely reference with over 2,300 entries. A great reference resource for every public procurement professional.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

READ MORE