NIGP Your Community

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22, 2025 | Chicago, IL

Organizational Culture is a key challenge for today's leaders and is one of the themes we'll focus on at the NIGP Leadership Summit 2025.

Trish Kordas, Chief Strategy Officer, Government Leadership Solutions is one of the plenary speakers and facilitators at Leadership Summit. From Strategic Planning and Succession Management to Policy Creation and Employee Relations, she possesses the breadth of expertise to help cultures thrive.

Culture Workshop presented by Trish Kordas

In this video, Trish offers a taste of what you can expect from attending this engaging workshop at Summit and shares that this workshop is more than just a learning experience, it's a call to action - you'll leave with tangible strategies and a personalized culture action plan with immediate actionable steps. Can you define your team's unique culture? 

VIEW VIDEO

Join us for the Impact program, an exceptional gathering of mid to senior-level public procurement practitioners dedicated to addressing the top leadership challenges in a collaborative and supportive environment.

REGISTER TODAY

CEO MESSAGE

Rick Grimm, NIGP-CPP
Chief Executive Officer, NIGP

On behalf of the NIGP Governing Board and our wonderful staff, we'd like to wish you and your families a joyous holiday season. May your days be filled with warmth, laughter, and magical memories.

It is truly an honor to serve you and we look forward to a new year where we'll share new successes, new opportunities, and new accomplishments. I am so thankful to have served as CEO of this great association for 26 amazing years. Every single day has been a pleasure. Your endless energy, enthusiasm, and talent have enabled us to make great strides as we continue to elevate your professional growth and the profession at large.

Friends, Happy Holidays!

RADIO NIGP

December Show
Theme: Giving 

Our segment focuses on giving, reflecting on the spirit of generosity, selflessness, and bringing value to others. Public procurement professionals embody this characteristic daily by ensuring the responsible stewardship of public funds, delivering value to our communities, and fostering partnerships that benefit society to build a better future. 

Moments with NIGP: Join Kirk Buffington and Chanda Carpenter, Director of Content at NIGP, as they discuss the 2025 Forum. Scholarships are now available and a reminder that submissions for the 2025 Call for Presentations are due January 6, 2025.

And so much more...

VIEW RADIO NIGP

NIGP-CPP

The Certification for Procurement Excellence

Beyond assessing your knowledge, the NIGP-CPP focuses on your competencies, skills, and experience to showcase your effectiveness as a strategic public procurement leader.

Key benefits of getting your NIGP-CPP certification

• Skill Validation
• Competitive Advantage
• Higher Earning Potential.
• Professional Credibility
• Enhanced Confidence

Join our NIGP-CPP community of over 1,600 procurement leaders. 

READ MORE

CALL FOR SMEs

Share Your Procurement Expertise

The NIGP Content Team is looking for enthusiastic Public Procurement Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to work on a contract basis to develop and facilitate engaging content sessions for upcoming conferences.

Virtual Technology Conference - Apply by December 31, 2024

Forum 2025 Learning Paths - Apply by January 6, 2025

This is a great opportunity to grow your presentation and leadership skills while contributing to the public procurement community.

Read the CALL FOR SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS for additional information and how to apply. 

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS

Forum 2025 - Invitation to Submit
Submission Deadline: January 6, 2025 

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

• Cornerstones of Public Procurement 
• Leadership 
• Essential Skills 
• Technology 
• Stories from the Field (Lesson Learned) 
   

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Fast Track Construction - a project delivery strategy in which construction starts before the design is completed.

From the 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.

NIGP 2025 Call for SMEs
Share your procurement expertise. 

The NIGP Content Team is looking for enthusiastic Public Procurement Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) to work on a contract basis to develop and facilitate engaging content sessions for upcoming conferences.

• Virtual Technology Conference: apply by December 31, 2024
• Forum 2025 Learning Paths: apply by January 6, 2025

This is a great opportunity to grow your presentation and leadership skills while contributing to the public procurement community.

Read the CALL FOR SUBJECT MATTER EXPERTS for additional information and how to apply. 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Susan Rose, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Director of Procurement
Marana Unified School District, AZ

In September of 2022, I transitioned from Purchasing Agent to the Director of Procurement when I returned to Marana Unified School District. My focus changed from being task oriented as an individual to becoming department director focused on my team and the needs of the district.

As I began this new leadership position, it became clear that changes needed to be made to Marana Unified School District (MUSD) procurement such as:  implementing an online bidding platform to streamline the procurement process and revising solicitation templates to include Federal Language, Disadvantaged Business and other ethical language to not only remain compliant but to support responsible procurement practices.

We also reinstated training for coaches, sponsors, and secretarial staff which is crucial for maintain high standards and ensuring everyone is equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles. For the first time, a Design build construction delivery method RFQ was completed for the new K-8 school build. The General Fixed Assets procedures have been restructured.  

Communicating to certain district staff has also been important to the success of procurement in our district. Regularly we send an updated “Procurement Press Release” to staff and include valuable information. There is a section labeled “Help us, help you,” where we include relevant information to assist end-users to create efficiency with the input of requisitions, contract references and the need for supporting documents.  

I’m a huge advocate for training for procurement staff which is crucial for ensuring compliance, efficiency, and effectiveness in the procurement process. I’ve enjoyed serving on various committees with the Copper Chapter of NIGP.  Being around like-minded people and helping our chapter, has helped me to grow as a professional. I saw the accomplishments of other chapter members and how their reach to serve others grew. I saw something in others that I hoped to emulate.

I have dedicated myself to make a difference in the procurement field by serving those around me. I am grateful to follow my former mentors and run along their path and serve with my best effort.

The tagline for the district is “Inspiring students to learn today and lead tomorrow”, Susan inspires all of us to be our best self. Congratulations on being a nominee for the NIGP 2024 Manager of the Year Award.

CALL FOR PRESENTATIONS

Invitation to Submit
Submission Deadline: January 6, 2025 

We invite you to submit your presentation for NIGP Forum 2025 offered in-person (Denver, CO) and virtually from July 27-30, 2025. 

This is your opportunity to make your mark within the profession and amongst your peers. Presentations are meant to spark the imagination, encourage dialogue, and drive pragmatic solutions to the biggest challenges facing the profession.

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

• Cornerstones of Public Procurement 
• Leadership 
• Essential Skills 
• Technology 
• Stories from the Field (Lesson Learned) 

Please use the resources provided to help you prepare the best proposal possible and review the FORUM CFP REQUIREMENTS before beginning the process.    

NIGP-CPP

The Certification for Procurement Excellence

Beyond assessing your knowledge, the NIGP-CPP focuses on your competencies, skills, and experience to showcase your effectiveness as a strategic public procurement leader.

Key benefits of getting your NIGP-CPP certification

• Skill Validation
• Competitive Advantage
• Higher Earning Potential.
• Professional Credibility
• Enhanced Confidence

If you're a procurement leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. 

LEARN MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

RSVP Now for NIGP Leadership Summit - ACADEMY February 20-22, 2025  

Attention Chapter Leaders - Transform your leadership journey at the 2025 Chapter ACADEMY. Whether you're looking to boost member engagement or streamline chapter operations, ACADEMY is designed to help you succeed. 

Be part of a community dedicated to elevating chapter operations, increasing member engagement, and achieving your chapter’s goals for 2025. 

What You Can Expect - ACADEMY includes a combination of the Chicago in-person event and multiple virtual sessions providing a comprehensive learning experience.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Search Contracts - featured on the NIGP Website

Save time and money by visiting the Search Contracts page on our website where you'll find searchable public entity contracts for anything and everything.

Using a shareable contract (also known as cooperative, piggyback, and intergovernmental contract) reduces the administrative burden of purchasing and speeds up the purchasing process. Plus, you're relying on the work another entity has already done to run a competitive solicitation process.

READ MORE

The Search Contracts tab is located at the top of the NIGP Website.

WORD OF THE WEEK

Reverse Auction - online auction in which sellers bid against one another to win a buyer's business. Typically used to purchase commodities from multiple pre-qualified providers. Also referred to as “eAuction.”

From the 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

Call for Presentations Is Now Open
Submission Deadline: January 6, 2025

Do you have a topic you’re passionate about and want to share it with your peers? We invite you to submit your presentation for NIGP Forum 2025 offered in-person (Denver, CO) and virtually from July 27-30, 2025. 

This is your opportunity to take an active role in the most diverse and comprehensive conference attended by public procurement professionals across North America. Presentations are meant to spark the imagination, encourage dialogue, and drive pragmatic solutions to the biggest challenges facing the profession. 

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

• Cornerstones of Public Procurement - sessions focused on fundamental principles, practices, or values that form the foundation of effective public procurement.
• Leadership - sessions focused on the skills needed to tackle everyday leadership challenges.  
• Essential Skills - sessions focused on skills such as critical thinking, communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability which are invaluable for professional development.
• Technology - sessions that delve into critical technologies, skills, products, and strategies that are reshaping public procurement. 
• Stories from the Field (Lesson Learned) - real-life stories from procurement professionals sharing their challenges, successes, and lessons learned in the field. 
   

Please use the resources provided to help you prepare the best proposal possible and review the NIGP FORUM 2025 CONFERENCE & EXPOSITION PROPOSAL CONTENT REQUIREMENTS before beginning the process.    

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MY PROFILE IN LEADERSHIP

Damaris Nazario, NIGP-CPP, CPPB, MBA
Procurement Supervisor
Toho Water Authority, Kissimmee, FL

Most people don't plan for careers in public procurement. I know people always say it’s not like I woke up one day and wanted to work in public procurement. But that was my reality. One morning, I decided to switch from private to public procurement, even if it meant taking a temporary pay cut.

Networking within NIGP through NSite, local chapter meetings, and national events boosted my confidence and truly transformed my professional journey. The more involved I became with NIGP and its members, the more I saw the value of participating in NIGP programs, earning certifications, and advancing my higher education.

While I was driven to advance my own career, my motivation went beyond personal growth. I realized that in public procurement, the success of one is the success of many.

READ MORE

CELEBRATING ICAPP

The Inaugural International Conference for Advancing Public Procurement (ICAPP)
November 10-12, 2024 | Dublin, Ireland 

The inaugural ICAPP is in the books! The conference was attended by 70 individuals from 22 nations including 18 from the USA.

The conference was held at the St. Patrick's Campus of the Dublin City University. The program featured 8 streams of public procurement topics with each stream offering 4-5 international case studies or research presented by graduate students or scholarly experts.  

Thank you to everyone involved in making this a tremendous success..stay tuned for ICAPP 2026!

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Certification Is The Premier Certification

The NIGP-CPP certification is the premier certification for leaders in public procurement. From key procurement topics to leadership, strategy, business skills and operations, and everything in between, this certification tests the technical competencies, skills, and abilities needed to be a leader in procurement.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. In addition to validating the competencies, abilities, and skills you have, this certification validates your skills are portable and transferable.

LEARN MORE 

CHAPTER NEWS

The NIGP Chapter SME Program Is Here For You
Get One-On-One Support

NIGP's goal is to help support our Chapters. That's why we've developed the Chapter SME program. This program consists of a group of Subject Matter Experts who are familiar with various chapter-related topics. These SMEs can be requested to work directly with your Chapter Board and Leadership. 

Chapters will receive one-on-support for their specific chapter's needs or challenges. Topics range from Governance, Finance, Operations, Event Planning, and Volunteerism to name a few. 

Simply complete the CHAPTER SME REQUEST FORM and we'll pair you with the appropriate SME. 

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NEW White Paper -  Putting the Pieces in Place: Solving the Puzzle of Connecting Supplier Evaluations, Scorecards and Ratings

The purpose of this white paper, authored by the NIGP Business Council, is to explore the importance of connecting evaluation methods, criteria, scoring, and performance ratings for optimal contract performance. 

This paper is written from the perspective of the supplier community, while striving to align with the procurement community's best practices. 

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Mistake of Law - an error—not in the actual facts— but in their legal significance, relevance, or consequence, for which there is no relief from a court of law.

From the 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

Leadership Summit 2025
Early Registration for IMPACT ends December 6

The window is closing to sign up for the IMPACT program and save! Register by December 6 for best pricing.

Join us February 20-22 in Chicago for an in-person Leadership Summit specifically designed for mid- and senior-level procurement leaders who are committed to addressing top leadership challenges in a collaborative and supportive environment.

After conducting extensive research into leadership challenges that are impacting the profession, the following key themes have been selected for this year's Summit: 

• Change Leadership: Leading through transformation with confidence
• Strategic Thinking and Planning: Crafting visionary strategies for success
• Creating and Maintaining Culture: Building thriving organizational environments
   

Along with the many impactful learning sessions, you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow leaders at different stages of their career journey throughout Summit.

REGISTER TODAY

CEO SPOTLIGHT

Rick Grimm, NIGP-CPP
Chief Executive Officer 
NIGP

Friends, on behalf of the NIGP Governing Board and our amazing staff, we'd like to wish you and your families a joyous Thanksgiving. We are grateful for all you do every single day and honored to be your association of choice.

Your passion, expertise, and commitment have been instrumental in shaping NIGP into the vibrant community we are today. Your contributions to public service inspire all of us.

As we reflect on the year, let's also look forward to the future with optimism because together, we can move mountains.  

NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: Supplier Risk Management: Tiering by Kirk Buffington

Best practices for conducting supplier risk assessments include establishing clear risk thresholds, categorizing suppliers through tiering, and implementing a "trust but validate" approach.

Additionally, assessing risk across all suppliers, not just those in IT, mitigates operational, legal, and financial vulnerabilities.

This blog focuses primarily on vendor tiering, which offers the procurement officer a deeper look at a particular supplier’s risk.

READ THE FULL BLOG

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP...The Premier Certification

What NIGP-CPPs are saying: 

"Obtaining the NIGP-CPP ensures that my entity, the vendor community, and the general public are able to recognize that they are working with a procurement professional that has achieved the competencies needed to be a successful leader..." 
Katrina Ponzini, NIGP-CPP, M.Ed., CPPB, CPCM
The School District of Osceola County, FL

"This certification has significantly boosted my professional credibility and opened new opportunities for career advancement."
Kelly Vickers , NIGP-CPP, CPE, PPA
West Virginia Departments of Health, Health Facilities, and Human Services

ABOUT THE NIGP-CPP

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

LOUISIANA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Educational Conference & Products Exposition
DECEMBER 3-6 | Lake Charles, LA

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ASSOCIATION (RMGPA)
Conference and Vendor Trade Show
DECEMBER 10-11 | Denver, CO

ACADEMY REMINDER
Specifically designed for Chapter Leaders. ACADEMY includes a combination of the Chicago in-person event and multiple virtual sessions providing a comprehensive learning experience. 

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

RADIO NIGP

November Show - Forum 2024 Award Interviews, Leadership Summit & Giving Thanks

This month's show concludes the series of interviews with the winners of the individual and chapter awards announced at Forum 2024.

We discuss the benefits of attending Leadership Summit with Todd Slater, NIGP Chief Content Officer and don't miss the special segment featuring Radio NIGP staff giving thanks.

VIEW RADIO NIGP

WORD OF THE WEEK

Life Expectancy - The number of years during which an asset is expected to remain in active use.

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

A valuable resource for public procurement professionals.

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

Leadership Summit 2025: Preview Webinar

What you can expect from this one-of-a-kind event

If you're a leader in your organization, Leadership Summit is for you.This comprehensive event brings together emerging (EDGE), experienced (IMPACT), and chapter leaders (ACADEMY) for a dynamic exchange of knowledge, insights, and best practices designed to empower and drive impactful change within public procurement organizations. 

Still Undecided? 

This Webinar Recording gives you a clearer picture of what you'll experience at this mega leadership event. You'll hear from Todd Slater, NIGP's Chief Content Officer, Dr. Maria Church, CEO, Government Leadership Solutions, Tonya Parker, Vice Chair NIGP Leadership Committee, and Carrie Winter, NIGP Director, Events & Program Delivery - all sharing highlights and providing insights into this upcoming event and why it's important for you to attend. 

VIEW WEBINAR RECORDING

We hope you're as excited as we are about Leadership Summit 2025 and look forward to seeing you February 20-22, 2025 in Chicago, IL.

REGISTER TODAY

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

David Wheeler, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Senior Director, Procurement Services 
Orange County Public Schools, Orlando, FL

In his 15+ years with Orange County Public Schools, David’s visionary leadership has led to the implementation of cutting-edge strategies and technologies that have streamlined processes, enhanced efficiency, and achieved substantial cost savings.  Under David’s leadership, Orange County Public School’s has been able to attain multiple awards such as the National Procurement Institute’s (NPI) Achievement of Excellence in Procurement award, the Florida Association of Public Procurement Officials (FAPPO) Excellence in Procurement and Best Practice awards, as well securing NIGP’s Agency Advancement Award in 2023.

As a leader, David prioritizes professional development and is committed to continuous skill development and staying informed about industry best practices. He leads by example and encourages his team to do the same. He’s developed a professional development program with a thoughtful progression of training through NIGP that helps his team members develop skills necessary for their area of responsibility. For example, within a few months of starting their employment, David has team members who do not have any procurement experience register for the NIGP Introduction to Procurement course which provides appropriate foundational concepts. For team members who work on construction, he has them enroll in the NIGP construction specialization program.

David’s impact extends beyond Orange County Public Schools, he has been pivotal in leading procurement initiatives for prominent groups such as the Council of Great City Schools and the Florida School Procurement Consortium. His ability to collaborate and drive consensus among diverse stakeholders is a testament to his exceptional leadership and influence in the broader procurement community.

Since 2022, David has been a member of the FAPPO Rebranding Task Force where he has been working collaboratively with the team to develop ideas in which FAPPO can add value to members to recruit and retain new and current members. He also serves as a mentor through the Central Florida Chapter’s Mentoring Program

David’s dedication to advance the field of public procurement is commendable and one of the many reasons he was nominated for NIGP’s 2024 Manager of the Year Award.

NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: What are the benefits of supplier risk assessments? by Kirk Buffington

Supplier risk assessment is critical for government procurement offices to ensure secure, reliable, and compliant procurement operations.

Best practices for conducting supplier risk assessments include establishing clear risk thresholds, categorizing suppliers through tiering, and implementing a "trust but validate" approach. Additionally, assessing risk across all suppliers, not just those in IT, mitigates operational, legal, and financial vulnerabilities.

This blog post will introduce risk strategies, which will offer the procurement officer a deeper look at a particular supplier’s risk. Next week's blog post will discuss another best practice, supplier tiering, which can be undertaken to manage supplier risk on a deeper level.

READ THE FULL BLOG

VOLUNTEER LEADER OPENING

IMMEDIATE TOP LEVEL OPENING FOR NIGP GOVERNING BOARD

The Talent Council is recruiting NIGP Member leaders to fill an immediate public procurement practitioner position on the NIGP Governing Board.

It is the practice of the Talent Council to recruit for all open positions - regardless of incumbency to ensure that the Institute gets the right leaders in the right positions.

Applications are due December 4, 2024.

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

RSVP Now for NIGP Leadership Summit - ACADEMY - February 20-22, 2025

Attention Chapter Leaders - Transform your leadership journey at the 2025 ACADEMY. Whether you're looking to boost member engagement or streamline chapter operations, ACADEMY is designed to help you succeed. 

Be part of a community dedicated to elevating chapter operations, increasing member engagement, and achieving your chapter’s goals for 2025.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

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 18,000+ 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.

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WORD OF THE WEEK

Grandfather Clause - a contract provision that allows entities or people to continue to follow an existing rule, regulation, or law rather than a newly enacted one.

From the 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

NIGP Blog: Lead, Follow, or Get Out Of The Way

By Em Moses, NIGP Publications & Content Curation Manager

This blog is based on the Forum session presented by Yolanda Broome and Kawanna Woods, City of Atlanta Dept. of Watershed Management, GA. Since the session was so well-received at Forum, we wanted to bring it to you in a blog post. Em Moses interviewed these two procurement movers and shakers for a story that reminds us of the power of human connection. 

When reading the blog interview, you realize leadership is just one piece of this moving story. What resonates is mentorship, friendship, mutual respect and admiration. It's about taking pride in what you do and taking pride in the profession. 

Yolanda and Kawanna share personal and professional experiences that have made a lasting impact on their career journeys. From "Followership" to "Getting out of the way" to helping others achieve greatness. Enjoy the read. 

READ THE COMPLETE BLOG 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Kennie Downing, NIGP-CPP
Chief Procurement Officer
City of Sierra Vista, AZ 

Kennie has had an impressive 34-year career in public procurement. In November 2020, she joined the City of Sierra Vista where she leads the Procurement Division using her wealth of knowledge and experience to champion procurement’s need to evolve into a new era.

Colleagues share, “her exceptional leadership skills, innovative thinking, and clear direction have been invaluable in promoting a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The amount she has been able to achieve to promote the procurement function in just four years is astounding.”

Kennie updated the Procurement Code and Procurement Policy, projects that were long overdue. She has created multiple training sessions for user departments, helping them understand the procurement process and the reasons for it. Her trainings have been noticed and lauded so much that other local entities have requested her training be brought to their agencies.

She lobbied for and implemented a new eProcurement system. This has broadened the reach for projects and helped the City receive more bids than they ever experienced before. This competition has been extremely beneficial to the City of Sierra Vista and has saved countless dollars for the organization. She spearheaded a new Capital Improvements Project Team that meets every month to discuss and provide updates for all of the projects city-wide which has helped the organization immensely through increased communication.

Kennie set the example for her staff by acquiring the NIGP-CPP certification and encouraging the staff to do the same. They now have 75% certification in the procurement division. She was the driving force behind the attainment of the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (AEP) award in 2023.

In 2023, Kennie received the Manager of the Year Award from the Copper Chapter of NIGP and currently serves as the Chapter’s Vice President of Membership.

Kennie Downing is an extraordinary public procurement leader. Thank you for all you do. Congratulations on being a nominee for the 2024 NIGP Procurement Manager of the Year Award.

CELEBRATIONS 

Grateful To These Volunteer Leaders

The Pipeline and Placement Committee is pleased to announce the following re-appointments to the NIGP Certification Commission’s Test Development Committee:

Kerrie Koopman, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB - Deputy Director, Office of Procurement & Contract Management for the Maryland State Highway Administration

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

Ezzard Charles Spencer, Jr., NIGP-CPP, FCCN, FCCM, NIGP-PPA - Procurement Director for the City of Plantation FL

In addition, The Pipeline and Placement Committee announced the appointment of  Tracy Garcia, NIGP-CPP, CPPB, the Procurement Manager for the City of Tucson AZ to the Awards Task Force.

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Certification Handbook, 5th Edition

NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP. 

The NIGP-CPP Certification Handbook is your essential and principal source of information for the NIGP-CPP program.

From eligibility requirements to testing policies, the handbook includes everything you need to evaluate the program and complete the certification and recertification requirements.

Reminder: Registration and payment for February 2025 testing closes on December 21, 2024.

READ THE HANDBOOK

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Event

SAMPO
Long Island Regional Conference
NOVEMBER 18-19 | Wading River, NY

COPPER CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
NOVEMBER 19 | Tucson, AZ

OREGON PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Fall Conference & Vendor Showcase
NOVEMBER 21-22 | Newport, OR

LOUISIANA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Educational Conference & Products Exposition
DECEMBER 3-6 | Lake Charles, LA

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Pathways Concierge Program 

Customized, complementary professional education services to help guide your career journey.

Experienced procurement and education professionals talk to members about their career goals and help identify their best professional path forward, and mentor them along the way using the NIGP Pathways program. 

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Reinsurance - a contract in which an insurance company agrees to indemnify another insurance company in whole or in part against risks the first company has assumed.

From the 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

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22, 2025 | Chicago, IL

Strategic Planning is a key challenge for today's leaders and is one of the themes we'll focus on at the NIGP Leadership Summit 2025.

Mae Sinclair, MBA, Senior Consultant, Government Leadership Solutions is one of the plenary speakers and facilitators at Leadership Summit. She has vast experience in Organizational Development and Training, Leadership Development, DE&I, Employee Relations, and Strategic Planning. 

Strategic Planning Workshop presented by Mae Sinclair

In this video, Mae offers a taste of what you can expect from attending this engaging workshop and shares her unique perspective on strategic planning. She relates strategic planning to building a house, you start with a foundation. What's your mission, vision and guiding principles? Once you have these in place you can start framing your strategic plans. Get ready to hear more thought-provoking takeaways on how you can create and implement successful strategic planning in your organization. 

VIEW VIDEO

Join us for the Impact program, an exceptional gathering of mid to senior-level public procurement practitioners dedicated to addressing the top leadership challenges in a collaborative and supportive environment.

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

George Barber, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, MPA, PhD Candidate
Chief Procurement Officer, City of Palm Bay, FL 

From Professional Baseball to Public Procurement:
My Unexpected Leadership Path

I’m obsessed with leadership. And I don’t use the word “obsessed” lightly. Just ask my dissertation advisor.

My leadership obsession didn’t happen overnight. It’s been building since I was drafted by the Los Angeles Angels as a center fielder. As I progressed through my professional baseball career, I saw first-hand how leadership can change a team's entire essence. I studied different managers and recognized that there wasn’t a universal way to get players to perform at a high level. What worked for one player didn’t work for another, and so the leaders needed to continually adapt their methods and figure out what worked best for a particular set of players.

Once my professional baseball career ended, I pivoted to working in public procurement almost immediately.

READ FULL BLOG

NEW GROUNDBREAKING PARTNERSHIP

NIGP Code & Consulting and Civic Marketplace Join Forces to Modernize Procurement

New Partnership Seeks to Lead the Future of Procurement with AI-Driven Innovation

By joining forces, NIGP Code & Consulting and Civic Marketplace have a vision to support simplifying and modernizing procurement processes for local governments, and to harness the power of technology to drive better resident outcomes and maximize government efficiencies.

Together, this partnership ensures that governments are equipped with the tools and standards to streamline procurement, save taxpayer dollars, and improve public services.

“Civic Marketplace’s mission aligns with our vision of working with public sector clients to advance their procurement operations, helping to lead procurement into the future and encouraging the use of innovative technology,” said Marcheta Gillespie, President of NIGP Code & Consulting. 

READ FULL PRESS RELEASE

NIGP-CPP

The Certification for Procurement Excellence

Set the stage for your career success and get certified.

Beyond assessing your knowledge, the NIGP-CPP focuses on your competencies, skills, and experience to showcase your effectiveness as a strategic public procurement leader.

Key benefits of getting your NIGP-CPP certification

• Skill Validation
• Competitive Advantage
• Higher Earning Potential.
• Professional Credibility
• Enhanced Confidence

If you're established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. 

READ MORE

UPCOMING CHAPTER EVENTS

Upcoming Chapter Events

GOVERNMENTAL PROCUREMENT ASSOCIATION OF GEORGIA
Fall Conference
NOVEMBER 8-12 | Dawsonville, GA

PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION OF NORTHERN OHIO
Reverse Trade Show
NOVEMBER 13 | Warrensville Heights, OH

SAMPO
Long Island Regional Conference
NOVEMBER 18-19 | Wading River, NY

COPPER CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
NOVEMBER 19 | Tucson, AZ

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Search Contracts - featured on the NIGP Website

Save time and money by visiting the Search Contracts page on our website where you'll find searchable public entity contracts for anything and everything.

Using a shareable contract (also known as cooperative, piggyback, and intergovernmental contract) reduces the administrative burden of purchasing and speeds up the purchasing process. Plus, you're relying on the work another entity has already done to run a competitive solicitation process.

READ MORE

The Search Contracts tab is located at the top of the NIGP Website.

WORD OF THE WEEK

Go, No-Go - an evaluation technique that may be used to score proposals. It can be applied to major areas and elements of management, operational suitability, and other criteria when identified for evaluation; generally applied to technical and management areas

From the 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 Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22, 2025 | Chicago, IL

If you're a mid to senior-level leader eager to elevate your leadership potential, the IMPACT PROGRAM  at the NIGP Leadership Summit is for you.

IMPACT: What You Can Expect
After conducting extensive research into leadership challenges that are impacting the profession, the following key themes have been selected for this year's Summit: 

Change Leadership: According to the Harvard Business Review, 70% of change initiatives fail due to a lack of effective leadership. This workshop focuses on enhancing change intelligence (CQ). 

Strategic Planning: Intentional planning is crucial in today's fast-paced environment. This workshop introduces concepts and tools for developing strategic priorities and goals. 

Culture: In today’s dynamic landscape, procurement leaders often question their organization's cultural effectiveness. This workshop offers a deep dive into essential elements for fostering a strong, productive, and motivated workplace. 

The IMPACT experience aims to foster strong relationships, actively solve contemporary challenges, and encourage the exchange of innovative ideas that may challenge conventional thinking.

REGISTER TODAY

NIGP SPOTLIGHT

Rick Grimm, NIGP-CPP
Chief Executive Officer
NIGP

2024 Carlton N. Parker Award Recipient 

The Carlton N. Parker Award is the most prestigious award presented to an individual by the National Procurement Institute (NPI). The criteria for receiving the award, as established by the NPI Board of Directors, requires that the nominee has made outstanding contributions to the development and progress of NPI and the public procurement profession.

On October 15, during their annual conference in Denver, Colorado, Rick was deeply honored and surprised to receive this prestigious award.

Rick shares, "my personal appreciation to the 2023-24 NPI President Blake Skiles and the nominating committee for this great honor. I will remember this evening for a lifetime - celebrating with great friends who share a bond to elevate our public procurement profession."

In 2013, NIGP became the proud sponsor of NPI's Achievement in Excellence in Procurement Award now in its 29th year with 198 public sector recipients in 2024. NIGP and NPI share several leaders serving both associations. Rick says, "the power of collaboration and mutual respect is alive and thriving."

Congratulations Rick!

NIGP BLOG

Tech Time by Dr. Alan R. Shark
Artificial Intelligence: The Impact on Public Procurement - Opportunity & Risk

By now, most are beginning to view artificial intelligence as something to be reckoned with. Regarding public procurement, there are two main issues: What should one know about purchasing Ai-type systems, and how can Ai be used to streamline and improve the overall procurement function?  

As with any new technology, the first issue can be addressed by knowing about the vendor, how security and privacy can be guaranteed, and how to negotiate a reasonable price for the services provided.

Nearly every vendor claims its products and services are “Ai-powered,” which is often overblown and misleading. One should never be afraid to ask, “What do you mean by “Ai-powered” and what makes this product or service different from previous offerings?

Here are just a few areas in which Ai can assist public procurement:

• Automated Supplier Evaluation
• Predictive Analytics
• Contract Management
   

READ THE FULL BLOG

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Certification Is The Premier Certification

The NIGP-CPP certification is the premier certification for leaders in public procurement. From key procurement topics to leadership,
strategy, business skills and operations, and everything in between, this certification tests the technical competencies, skills, and abilities
needed to be a leader in procurement.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. In addition to validating the competencies, abilities, and skills you have, this certification validates your skills are portable and transferable. 

LEARN MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

RSVP Now for NIGP Leadership Summit - ACADEMY - February 20-22, 2025

Attention Chapter Leaders - Transform your leadership journey at the 2025 Chapter ACADEMY. Whether you're looking to boost member engagement or streamline chapter operations, ACADEMY is designed to help you succeed. 

Be part of a community dedicated to elevating chapter operations, increasing member engagement, and achieving your chapter’s goals for 2025. 

What You Can Expect - ACADEMY includes a combination of the Chicago in-person event and multiple virtual sessions providing a comprehensive learning experience. 

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Global Best Practice: Managing A Remote Workforce

This global best practice provides guidance to public procurement leaders on effectively managing a remote workforce. Like other business sectors, public procurement has faced changes and challenges in recent years as more employees are performing their work at home or in remote offices.

Although managing a remote workforce has created a new challenge for procurement leaders, many have established some best practices.

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

False Claims Act - a law that provides for the recovery of damages and remedies upon furnishing to the government proof of loss sustained through fraud in the award or performance of government contracts.

From the 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

Are You Ready To Give Back To Our Profession?

Top Level Openings Available for NIGP Governing Board and Council Seats

The Talent Council is recruiting NIGP Member leaders to fill public procurement practitioner positions on these four NIGP governing bodies that will become available in July 2025. 

• Governing Board 
• Finance Council
• Member  Council
• Talent Council (one immediate opening)

It is the practice of the Talent Council to recruit for all open positions - regardless of incumbency to ensure that the Institute gets the right leaders in the right positions.

Applications are due October 29, 2024

READ MORE

PROFILES IN LEADERSHIP

Emily Moses
Publications & Content Curation Manager
NIGP

Yes, NIGP Really Cares About Cultivating Leaders: A Tale from the Inside

Building leadership capabilities is a strategic priority for NIGP, and not just for members. I recently graduated from the Edge Program—a leadership development program for those new to leadership or those who aspire to take on leadership roles. I’m one of a handful of NIGP staff members who has gone through this program.

To be honest, at first, I felt a little out of place when I participated in Edge. However, I got so much out of attending the program, which my manager encouraged me to participate in to familiarize myself with procurement while strengthening my leadership skills. That is what’s great about the leadership offerings at NIGP because the learning focuses on developing leadership capabilities. By design, the skills and strategies you develop and enhance are transferable. So regardless of your current role, entity, or profession, you will build foundational skills you can take with you anywhere.

READ THE COMPLETE BLOG

SPECIAL FREE PREVIEW WEBINAR

Get An Inside Look...
Leadership Summit & Impact Program Webinar
October 30 | 2PM - 2:30PM 

Join Todd Slater, NIGP's Chief Content Officer, and Dr. Maria Church, the Lead Facilitator for this webinar and discover how the Summit and Impact Program can elevate your leadership skills and provide valuable insights to drive your career forward.

REGISTER TODAY

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22 | Chicago. IL

In an ever-evolving landscape, strong leadership is essential for navigating challenges, driving innovation, and achieving organizational goals.

Leadership Summit connects leaders at every level.

This comprehensive event brings together emerging (EDGE), experienced (IMPACT, and chapter leaders (ACADEMY) for a dynamic exchange of knowledge, insights, and best practices designed to empower and drive impactful change within public procurement organizations.

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

What Makes NIGP-CPP Unique? 

The NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP.

Target:  Procurement Leaders
Source:  Public Procurement Competency Framework
Standards:  Designed to Follow Professional Certification Criteria
Focus:  Competency-Based Modular Exams
Flexibility:  Designed with the Fast-Paced Professional in Mind
Equity:  All Candidates Treated the Same
Relevance:  Certification is Integrated with Research and Life-Long Learning
Career Planning:  NIGP’s Credentialing System Provides Variety
Service Level:  NIGP is Committed to Providing Exceptional Service

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

MISSISSIPPI ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING & PROPERTY AGENTS
Conference & Vendor Expo
OCTOBER 27-30 | Biloxi, MS

PENNSYLVANIA PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Reverse Trade Show
OCTOBER 28 | Bethlehem, PA

SOUTH CAROLINA ASSOC. OF GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING OFFICIALS - JOIN WITH IAPPO
Annual Forum and Trade Show
NOVEMBER 4-6 | Myrtle Beach, SC

OKLAHOMA ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT
OkAPP Forum 2024
NOVEMBER 5-6 | Tulsa, OK

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Radio NIGP - October Show - Forum 2024 Award Interviews Continue

Procurement Specialist of the Year Award 
Casey Adams

Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service Award
Brian Smith

Distinguished Service Awards
John Edmondson, Danny Mays and Joe Tommie, Jr.

Agency Advancement Award
Orange County Government

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Reciprocal Preference  - when the policy or procedures of one jurisdiction favor its own suppliers in procurement selections; in turn, other jurisdictions may apply like measures against the suppliers from the first jurisdiction.

From the 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

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22, 2025 | Chicago, IL

Meet Dr. Maria Church, CEO, Government Leadership Solutions and one of the plenary speakers and facilitators at Leadership Summit. 

Maria is a local government and corporate alum with Fortune 500 experience, and academia adventures that constitute over 20 years of experience. With a doctorate of management in organizational leadership, Maria works with local governments to create workplaces that attract and retain the best talent. 

She created this video to share her excitement about this 3-day mega leadership event and describe how this experience will focus on leadership development that goes beyond the basics and deep dives into topics that will transform how you lead

VIEW VIDEO

Join us for the Impact cohort, an exceptional gathering of mid to senior-level public procurement practitioners dedicated to addressing the top leadership challenges in a collaborative and supportive environment.

REGISTER TODAY

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Tina McBride, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, CPM
Purchasing Agent/Manager
Idaho State Police

For the past 14 years, Tina has served as the Purchasing Manager for the Idaho State Police. She is a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of public procurement from RFQs to ITBs and beyond. Her efforts to better improve the public procurement processes are tireless. She is always seeking ways to make things better for everyone.

The Idaho State Controller’s Office specifically requested Tina to be part of the team to set up and implement a statewide enterprise software system called LUMA that included procurement, accounting, budget, timesheets, and human resources. The implementation phase for this project was from October 2019 through September 2023.

During the past year, she oversaw teaching the purchasing functions of the new software to accounts payable and procurement staff and was responsible for setting up the supplier registration system (which consisted of setting up 38,000 suppliers) in the new software as well as resolving all the issues for statewide Idaho Law Enforcement Telecommunication System (ILETS) connections. Her involvement in this project was critical to the success of the software implementation.

She has been described by colleagues as “a pilar in the public procurement world with a positive can-do attitude. There’s no task that is too large that she can’t handle. If she sees someone struggling, she will always step-in and ask how she can help, then roll-up her sleeves and jump right in.”

Her door is always open to any and all situations – large and small. To Tina, everyone matters.

She is very involved with the Idaho Public Purchasing Association Chapter of NIGP and over the years has held many positions. She currently serves as the  Scholarship Chairman.

Tina is a shining example of procurement professionalism. Thank you for all you do and congratulations on being  a nominee for the 2024 NIGP Procurement Manager of the Year Award.

NIGP BLOG

Tech Time by Dr. Alan Shark
The Real Problem with Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Every October, we are reminded of the importance of cybersecurity awareness and the need to be ever-vigilant. Cybercriminals are becoming ever more ingenious, requiring our utmost attention. Fancy phrases like “don’t be too quick to click” are heavily promoted, making many of us too hesitant to click on anything. And while we focus on things we should have control over, there are times when we are the victims despite our best efforts.

This past July, a faulty update from CrowdStrike, an endpoint security company, caused a massive IT outage that affected millions of Windows systems globally. But more than Windows machines were affected – millions more travelers were affected. Most airlines worldwide stopped all operations for many hours – with one airline whose dependency on this one system took five days to recover.

I was at the airport with plenty of time to spare for a business trip from DC to Minneapolis (MSP).

READ THE FULL BLOG

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP...The Premier Certification

NIGP-CPP is the most sought-after certification for leaders in public procurement.

In addition to validating your competencies, abilities, and skills, this certification is portable, transferable and world class. 

NIGP-CPP is now only the second procurement and contracting certification (NIGP and NCMA) to achieve accreditation by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), the most prestigious personnel certification accreditation program worldwide.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. 

LEARN MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTAL PROCUREMENT
Fall Symposium
OCTOBER 20-22 | Virginia Beach, VA

NEW MEXICO PUBLIC PROCUREMENT ASSOCIATION
Fall Conference & Vendor Fair
OCTOBER 23-25 | Albuquerque, NM

TENNESSEE ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING/EAST TENNESSEE
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 23-25 | Chattanooga, TN

MISSISSIPPI ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING & PROPERTY AGENTS
Conference & Vendor Expo
OCTOBER 27-30 | Biloxi, MS

LEARN 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

Good - anything that can be purchased that is not a service or real property.

From the 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 Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22, 2025 | Chicago, IL

Registration Now Open for IMPACT

The IMPACT Program at Summit is specifically designed for mid to senior-level public procurement leaders who are committed to addressing top leadership challenges in a collaborative and supportive environment.

After conducting extensive research into leadership challenges that are impacting the profession, the following key themes have been selected for this year's Summit: 

• Change Leadership: Leading through transformation with confidence
• Strategic Thinking and Planning: Crafting visionary strategies for success
• Creating and Maintaining Culture: Building thriving organizational environments
   

Along with the many impactful learning sessions, you’ll have the chance to connect with fellow leaders at different stages of their career journey throughout Summit. REGISTER TODAY

FREE Leadership Summit & Impact 2025 Preview Webinar

Whether you're deciding to attend or just registered and want to know more about Leadership Summit, this Webinar is for you. Hear firsthand what you'll experience at this 3-day mega-leadership event.

Webinar: Insider's View: Leadership Summit & Impact
OCTOBER 30 |  2PM - 2:30PM

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Kawanna Woods
Management Analyst
City of Atlanta Department of Watershed Management

I am a person who serves from the heart. Because I was born here in Atlanta, it is especially important to me to be efficient and save the constituents of Atlanta money.

In my current role, my responsibilities are an integral part of the vendor payment and relations portions of the procurement process. It is my responsibility to process task orders for ongoing work within an active contract. Without proper execution, the vendors will not receive payment for their work. This affects the lives of many individuals, including the citizens of the City of Atlanta. That is why I take pride in my work. I have taken ownership of my work by creating a workflow system that tracks the progress of a task order. This system minimizes error, keeps me organized, andhelps me manage the payments for multiple projects.

When I am assigned a solicitation or project, I follow the policies and procedures set by the City of Atlanta's Municipal Code. I often refer to this and the Georgia Procurement Manual to ensure I have advised my stakeholders properly. The most important thing to me is to draft a solid solicitation that creates competition for the work and honors the trust placed onto me by the citizens of the City of Atlanta and my user agency.

My motto is "Do everything right the first time." In procurement, doing it right also means doing it fairly and ethically, which I do not take lightly. I receive calls daily from potential vendors asking how they can become certified vendors of our municipality. They even visit our office to get information. Once, I was walking in the hall after we'd hosted a Vendor Lunch and Learn event when I was approached by a potential vendor. They asked me, "Who do I have to pay to get a contract here?”  My heart was thumping, and I replied, "You have to do it the right way. Register as a vendor." Nothing made me prouder than to stand up in the face of such a gross lack of ethics!

My efficiencies, and my effective results provide service to the citizens of my municipality. Because we say our goals are to save the money and to do things as quickly as possible, it is important for me to lead the charge on the contracts I manage. I do not allow contracts to lapse, because it results in our citizens' tax money being used to pay higher prices for the work their communities require.

What Colleagues Say

Colleagues commend Kawanna on her high standard of professionalism and the exceptional level of service she provides. She demonstrates responsive communication to inquiries, requests and concerns while providing clear and timely information to facilitate decision making and problem solving. She is dedicated to serving her community, which makes her the consummate procurement professional.

Kawanna, thank you for all you do and congratulations on being a nominee for the 2024 NIGP Procurement Specialist of the Year Award.

NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking by Kirk Buffington
The Vulnerability of Employees in Allowing Cyberattacks Through Social Engineering Schemes

In today's digital world, cybersecurity threats are evolving rapidly, and one of the most prevalent attack vectors is not technical at all—it's social engineering.

Social engineering refers to manipulating individuals into divulging confidential information, often by tricking them into taking actions that compromise the security of their organization's systems. Cybercriminals frequently exploit human behavior as the weakest link in an organization's security framework.

The Scope of the Problem

According to a recent Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report, 74% of all breaches involved a human element, with phishing and pretexting—two common forms of social engineering—accounting for a significant portion of those breaches.

READ FULL BLOG

VOLUNTEER LEADERS

Top Level Openings Available for NIGP Governing Board and Council Seats

The Talent Council is recruiting NIGP Member leaders fo fill public procurement practitioner positions on these four NIGP governing bodies that will become available in July 2025. 

• Governing Board 
• Finance Council
• Member  Council
• Talent Council (one immediate opening)

It is the practice of the Talent Council to recruit for all open positions - regardless of incumbency to ensure that the Institute gets the right leaders in the right positions.

Applications are due October 29, 2024

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

RSVP Now Open for NIGP Leadership Summit - ACADEMY - February 20-22, 2025

Attention Chapter Leaders - Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your leadership journey at the 2025 Chapter ACADEMY. Whether you're looking to boost member engagement or streamline chapter operations, ACADEMY is designed to help you succeed. 

Be part of a community dedicated to elevating chapter operations, increasing member engagement, and achieving your chapter’s goals for 2025. 

What You Can Expect - ACADEMY includes a combination of the Chicago in-person event and multiple virtual sessions providing a comprehensive learning experience. 

RESERVE YOUR SPOT

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Search Contracts - featured on the NIGP Website

Save time and money by visiting the Search Contracts page on our website where you'll find searchable public entity contracts for anything and everything.

Using a shareable contract (also known as cooperative, piggyback, and intergovernmental contract) reduces the administrative burden of purchasing and speeds up the purchasing process. Plus, you're relying on the work another entity has already done to run a competitive solicitation process.

READ MORE

The Search Contracts tab is located at the top of the NIGP Website.

WORD OF THE WEEK

Local Public Procurement Unit - Any county, city, town, school district, special authority, or any other subdivision of the state, or public entity of any such subdivision, or educational, health, or other institution spending public funds for the procurement of services, supplies, or construction.

From the 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

THINKING OF OUR NIGP FAMILY

We know many of our members, their families and loved ones are directly impacted by the catastrophic weather this weekend. We are praying for your safety and well-being.

NIGP Forum 2024...An Epic Event with 3,000+ Attendees

99% of Attendees would recommend Forum to peers

Thank you for making NIGP Forum 2024 our strongest showing in our 80-year history. 

We compiled the NIGP FORUM 2024 RECAP DOCUMENT to show you in numbers the stellar results of this year’s Forum which showed record high attendance and high satisfaction ratings all around. Whether you’re a member or a supplier, share this document with your department or entity leadership to make it easier to get continued support for participating at NIGP Forum. 

Reminder: Access NIGP Forum 2024 Content On-Demand
If you missed a session or want to rewatch sessions you attended, you still have access to all Forum 2024 content on-demand until November 1. Here's the LINK to access the virtual platform.

And before you ask, we've already started planning for NIGP Forum 2025 in beautiful Denver from July 27 – 30!

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Ken Sanchez
Chief Procurement Officer
Enterprise Procurement Services, State Procurement Office, State of Arizona

Ken Sanchez is the Chief Procurement Officer of the Arizona State Procurement Office’s Enterprise Procurement Services (EPS) team. Prior to 2021, this team did not exist. Ken founded, formed, and curated the EPS team which provides much-needed support to 95 individual state agencies for high-dollar procurement on their complicated solicitations and other procurement challenges.

His approach to leadership has always been to lead his team in a manner that puts customer service first. The EPS team follows timelines to establish the commitment of all stakeholders to the completion of projects. Ken’s team focuses on providing quality customer service to the State agencies and sends customer satisfaction survey for every project competed by the team. To date the team score for customer satisfaction is 7.8 out of 8 and on-time percentage of 82% on over 350 completed projects.

Ken holds himself to the same standards of accountability as his team. He leads with impartiality and provides each team member with opportunities for professional development and incorporates their ideas in procurement projects to increase confidence and promote best practices.

His guidance was crucial in the 2022 State of Arizona NASCA Award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Procurement for the Set Aside Program managed by the EPS team. The state's Set-Aside program establishes contracts with certified nonprofit agencies that serve individuals with disabilities as well as Arizona Correctional Industries. Under Ken’s leadership, the Set-Aside program grew from having little visibility into this award-winning program.

With over 30 years of procurement experience, his exceptional work ethic, dedication, leadership and resiliency make him stand out amongst his peers.

Thank you for all you do and congratulations on being a nominee for the 2024 NIGP Procurement Manager of the Year Award.

CELEBRATIONS

October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month 
Are You Prepared? 
Reduce Online Risk of Cybercrime

Since 2004, the President of the United States and Congress have declared the month of October to be Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a dedicated month for the public and private sectors to work together to raise awareness about the importance of cybersecurity.

Over the years it has grown into a collaborative effort between government and industry to enhance cybersecurity awareness, encourage actions by the public to reduce online risk and generate discussion on cyber threats on a national and global scale. 

October 2024 marks the 21st Cybersecurity Awareness Month.

Even amidst large-scale data breaches and cyberattacks, Cybersecurity Awareness Month reminds everyone that there are simple, effective ways protect your data and ultimately help secure our world.

Cybersecurity awareness tips: 

• Use strong passwords: Use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols to make it harder for hackers to crack your password. 
• Use multi-factor authentication (MFA): MFA is a low-cost security solution that can prevent 99.9% of account compromise attacks. 
• Keep your software up to date: Turn on automatic updates to keep your devices safe from known vulnerabilities. 
• Get ongoing cybersecurity training: Hackers are constantly developing new methods of attacking businesses, so it's important to keep employees educated on how to recognize and respond to these threats. 
• Be aware of phishing attacks: Simulating phishing attacks can help to identify vulnerabilities in your company's email security. 
• Secure your internet network: Connect to safe networks only and use VPNs. 
• Be careful with unknown websites: Go to websites directly instead of clicking on links in emails. 
• Use an antivirus or malware scanner: Use antivirus or malware software to protect your devices. 
• Back up your data regularly: Back up your data to protect it from loss. 

(Source: AI Overview)

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP...The Premier Certification

What NIGP-CPPs are saying: 

"Obtaining the NIGP-CPP ensures that my entity, the vendor community, and the general public are able to recognize that they are working with a procurement professional that has achieved the competencies needed to be a successful leader..." 
Katrina Ponzini, NIGP-CPP, M.Ed., CPPB, CPCM
The School District of Osceola County, FL

"This certification has significantly boosted my professional credibility and opened new opportunities for career advancement."
Kelly Vickers , NIGP-CPP, CPE, PPA
West Virginia Departments of Health, Health Facilities, and Human Services

ABOUT THE NIGP-CPP

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

WASHINGTON STATE CHAPTER
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 8 | Tacoma, WA

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT OFFICIALS
Fall Conference & Supplier Conference
OCTOBER 9-11 | Oakbrook, IL

MINNESOTA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Annual Conference
OCTOBER 10 | Duluth, MN

OREGON PUBLIC PURCASING ASSOCIATION & COLUMBIA CHAPTER
Reverse Trade Show
OCTOBER 15 | Keizer, OR

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Global Best Practice: Managing A Remote Workforce

This global best practice provides guidance to public procurement leaders on effectively managing a remote workforce. Like other business sectors, public procurement has faced changes and challenges in recent years as more employees are performing their work at home or in remote offices.

Although managing a remote workforce has created a new challenge for procurement leaders, many have established some best practices.

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Prevailing Wage Rate - the combination of a basic hourly rate or payment and any fringe benefit to workers set by regulatory agencies, specific to various job classifications.

From the 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

Do you want to unlock the full potential of your team?

Consider attending our Coaching for High Performance Workshop

October 17 |  9AM - 5PM (ET) |  Instructor: Lourdes Coss, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, MPA

Coaching fosters a culture of collaboration and growth. 
Coaching inspires greatness in others.
Coaching empowers individuals to thrive.
Coaching builds a team that's united in purpose.

In this leadership workshop, you'll discover how to harness the transformative power of coaching in your organization.

Member: $597
Non-Member: $697
Contact Hours: 7

REGISTER TODAY

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Michelle Butler, Esq., NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPCM
Chief Procurement Officer
DeKalb County Purchasing and Contracts, GA

Michelle is an experienced procurement professional and attorney with a career that spans over 21 years in both private and public sectors.

 In December 2023, she was officially promoted from Interim CPO to the Chief Procurement Officer for the Purchasing and Contracting Department in DeKalb County, Georgia. She’s currently focused on the professional development and growth of staff as well as fostering collaborative partnerships between departments to achieve organizational objectives.

Colleagues share, “Michelle fosters a positive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and supported. She’s increased employee training, team building exercises, internal promotions, salary adjustments and implemented an open-door policy.”

Michelle’s goal is to be the best procurement professional while enabling her staff to do the same.

Her innovative approaches to problem solving have helped elevate the procurement department within the organization. She’s also introduced new processes to streamline operations, acts as a liaison to the law department, and resolved long standing issues with user departments. Michelle is always searching for ways and/or methods that would increase the knowledge level of

Michelle holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in Political Science and Psychology from Georgia State University. She also holds a Juris Doctor degree from Cumberland School of Law.

Her staff says, “Michelle is an extraordinary leader and an asset to our organization.”

Her commitment to integrity, transparency and high moral standards makes her an exemplary public procurement professional.

Michelle Butler - Thank you for all you do and congratulations on being a nominee for the 2024 NIGP Procurement Manager of the Year Award.

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Reaccredited By IACET
As An Accredited Continuing Education and Training Provider 

Since 2004, NIGP has been designated an accredited provider by IACET. To be granted the IACET Accredited Provider designation, organizations must demonstrate that they are compliant with the ANSI/IACET 1-2018 Standard for Continuing Education and Training.

The Accredited Provider (AP) application and review is a rigorous process that involves extensive hands-on evaluation. Its thorough nature ensures that AP status is valued in the marketplace.

Reaccreditation is required every five years, and we reached our milestone in 2024.  NIGP is IACET-accredited through 2029. 

Special shout out to Charles Taylor, NIGP Education Program Manager who took the lead on the reaccreditation process. Thank you! 

NIGP-CPP

What Makes NIGP-CPP Unique? 

The NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP.

Target:  Procurement Leaders
Source:  Public Procurement Competency Framework
Standards:  Designed to Follow Professional Certification Criteria
Focus:  Competency-Based Modular Exams
Flexibility:  Designed with the Fast-Paced Professional in Mind
Equity:  All Candidates Treated the Same
Relevance:  Certification is Integrated with Research and Life-Long Learning
Career Planning:  NIGP’s Credentialing System Provides Variety
Service Level:  NIGP is Committed to Providing Exceptional Service

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

WASHINGTON STATE CHAPTER
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 8 | Tacoma, WA

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT OFFICIALS
Fall Conference & Supplier Conference
OCTOBER 9-11 | Oakbrook, IL

OREGON PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION & COLUMBIA CHAPTER
Reverse Trade Show
OCTOBER 15 |  Keizer, OR

READ MORE

RADIO NIGP

September Show - continues to feature interviews with NIGP award winners such as Keith Glatz, 2024 Albert H. Hall Memorial Award Recipient; Valerie Scott, Ella Pierce Award Recipient for Inclusion & Diversity;  and Bobby Tolston, Integrity Award Recipient.

Look for "Aha Moments" from NIGP Forum 2024 attendees! 

VIEW RADIO NIGP

WORD OF THE WEEK

Fair and Reasonable Price  - a price that is fair to both contracting parties, considering the market range for the good or service, agreed upon conditions, promised quality, and timeliness of contract performance.

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

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

Making Meaningful Connections and Memories...

NIGP Forum 2024

Photo Gallery

Checkout these candid photos from Forum in Charlotte! You can see and almost feel the energy and excitement. . Enjoy. PHOTO GALLERY

What attendees have to say

"I had a fantastic time at the NIGP Forum 2024. I met some incredible people, had engaging conversations, and made valuable connections. I'm leaving with great memories and hope to see you all next year."

"I was a first-time attendee and I learned so much! Thank you for reminding me of my value in the procurement field and for reminding me that my integrity means something."

"I love what I do and it was so great to be around so many people that love what they do too."

"I received a scholarship and am so thankful for the opportunity to experience the camaraderie and wealth of knowledge that I did while at Forum."

Reminder: NIGP Forum 2024 attendees all content is available on demand until November 1, 2024.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Olga Culp
Senior Contract Officer 
City of Tucson, AZ

Olga approaches her role as a procurement practitioner with passion and integrity every day. She has developed and maintained strong relationships within the city and is viewed as a valuable resource within her organization. She maintains a customer-service focus both internally and externally while protecting the best interests of the city. Recently, a Contract Representative with the Environmental and General Services Division praised Olga’s efforts for providing guidance and clarification regarding a contract dispute.

Olga shares, “The stakeholders I assist with procurement opportunities are experts in their field, my goal is to make them confident that I am as knowledgeable in my field. When discussing contract language, I am direct and honest, leaving information out can only make Procurement look unreliable and cause myself to look unreliable. Having the tough conversations in the beginning is the best way to start a project.”

Olga embraces the team dynamic - always willing to help her coworkers in any way that she can, whether it’s serving as a member of the City’s Templates Team, helping to standardize forms, or organizing a baby shower or retirement party for one of her coworkers. She continuously takes on additional tasks and assists in the training and mentoring of new staff.

She is proud to be a part of the procurement profession and is always ready and willing to give back. Year after year, Olga has made significant contributions to the Copper Chapter of NIGP.  She has served as either a member or a Chair of several committees, including the Fundraising Committee, Communications Committee, and Social Events Committee. Olga has also been a key volunteer for the chapter’s largest event, which is their annual Reverse Vendor Trade Show. This year, she is serving as the Chair of that event. By contributing to the chapter’s largest fundraising event every year, Olga is directly responsible for raising funds, all of which go to the Chapter’s scholarship fund, to help her and her colleagues attend the NIGP Annual Forum each year.

Olga is a firm believer in the value of professional development. She’s attended the NIGP Forum in 2022, 2023 and 2024, taken advantage of NIGP training opportunities, earned three core certificates and is planning to pursue professional certification within the coming year.

Olga Culp is an outstanding procurement professional and a nominee for the 2024 NIGP Procurement Specialist of the Year Award.  The City of Tucson is proud to have Olga as part of the procurement team.

CELEBRATIONS

Member Anniversaries
NIGP Thanks These Entities For Their Dedication
and Milestone Membership

Celebrating 25 Years
Oregon State University
Effingham County Board of Commissioners, GA
Town of East Hampton, NY
South Texas Community College
Charlotte County Board of Commissioners, FL
St. Lucie County Fire District, FL
Washtenaw County, MI
Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools, TN
Metropolitan Development & Housing Authority, TN
City of Atlanta, GA
Eugene Water and Electric Board, OR
City of North Miami Beach, FL
Alaska Railroad Corporation
Palm Beach County Water Utilities, FL
Arizona State Parks
Audubon Nature Institute, LA
City of Winchester, KY
Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority, FL

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Certification Is The Premier Certification

The NIGP-CPP certification is the premier certification for leaders in public procurement. From key procurement topics to leadership, strategy, business skills and operations, and everything in between, this certification tests the technical competencies, skills, and abilitiesneeded to be a leader in procurement.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. In addition to validating the competencies, abilities, and skills you have, this certification validates your skills are portable and transferable. 

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Fall Conference and Products Exposition
SEPTEMBER 24-26 | Dalton, GA

PUBLIC PURCHASERS ASSOCIATION OF NORTHERN OHIO
Reverse Trade Show
SEPTEMBER 25 | Warrensville Heights, OH

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

READ MORE

FREE RESOURCES

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

Search the 17,000+ 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

Maverick Spending - purchases made outside of procurement policies and procedures or established contracts.

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

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

READ MORE

COMING SOON...LEADERSHIP PIPELINE SURVEY

NIGP is partnering with Government Leadership Solutions (GLS) in support of their Leadership Pipeline Survey. We're inviting Members to participate in this valuable survey. It will be a great opportunity to contribute to the important effort of mapping and tracking how government entities are preparing their leadership pipeline with the hopes of ultimately strengthening said pipeline in years to come.

Details coming soon. 

Only 2 Days Left...
Scholarship Applications for EDGE and IMPACT Close on Friday

Leadership Summit 2025 | February 20 - 22 | Chicago, IL

What makes Leadership Summit distinct is the opportunity to expand your network as you connect with leaders who are at various stages in their career. Scholarships are now available for the EDGE and IMPACT programs. Applications close on Friday, September 13. 

EDGE PROGRAM - a dynamic platform for emerging leaders.The program runs from November 5, 2024 through March 4, 2025 and features a blend of virtual and in-person sessions that take place at Leadership Summit. Scholarships are available for accepted applicants. All admitted participants will receive a scholarship of $650 to be used towards the cost of the Edge program registration. APPLY TODAY  

IMPACT PROGRAM - is tailored for mid to senior-level leaders. These scholarships are designed for individuals who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Leadership Summit due to financial constraints. Scholarships cover the early registration fee of $850. APPLY TODAY

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your leadership mindset and engage with our team of subject matter experts to help you grow as a leader. 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

CoMakiya Baskin-Smith, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Procurement Manager 
Cook County Government, Chicago, IL

CoMakiya believes that growth takes flight when a person is willing to step out of their comfort zone.

She obtained her Bachelor’s degree through part-time study while her children were in elementary school. CoMakiya was determined to focus on ensuring that her children had an exceptional level of support in their formative years. As they transitioned from high school, she was able to put more focus on continuing to develop her career path.

And develop she did! CoMakiya has been a pillar of excellence in public procurement for an impressive 18 years consistently demonstrating exceptional skills and unwavering dedication to her role as a Public Procurement Professional for Cook County. She currently manages a staff of three under the direction of the Deputy CPO of Design and Construction and the Chief Procurement Officer. She is also in a partial dual role and serves the Deputy CPO for Commodities and Work Services.

Her professionalism has been recognized by the Clerk of the Circuit Court, where she was awarded the title of Manager of the Year in 2009, 2015, and 2019. She was the Chairperson of the Black History Month Program Committee in 2020 and received the Procurement Excellence Award from Euna Solutions in 2023 for her commitment to assist colleagues with professional development.

CoMakiya believes every leader must also be a good servant. She volunteers her time on a regular basis at a local food pantry and within her church and sorority organizations for various community-based events. She’s been a community leader of cheerleading programs since 2011 helping to shape the lives of young people.

She currently serves as the Professional Development and Education Chairperson for Illinois Association of Public Procurement Officials (IAPPO), a role in which she is demonstrably passionate about fostering the expertise of her colleagues.

Her expertise, leadership and commitment to her community make her an outstanding procurement professional and a nominee for NIGP’s 2024 Procurement Manager of the Year.

BLOG

Legally Speaking by Kirk Buffington
Understanding Retainage 
A Common Practice in the Construction Industry

Retainage, or retention or holdback, is where a portion of payment, typically 5-10%, is withheld until a predefined milestone is achieved on a building project. Retainage has a long history in the industry and can apply to both general and subcontractors. 

Retainage is designed to address several issues inherent to construction and other critical projects: 

Quality assurance: Retainage incentivizes a contractor and any applicable subcontractors to complete work to the owner's satisfaction. 

Defect correction: Retainge provides the owner or general contractor financial leverage by withholding a portion of payments. This leverage ensures the contractor addresses defects, deficiencies, or incomplete work. 

Project completion: Retainage motivates contractors to complete their work within the agreed-upon schedule to avoid abandoning or leaving projects unfinished.

READ COMPLETE BLOG

NIGP-CPP

The Forefront Of Procurement Excellence

NIGP-CPP is a unique and powerful certification for procurement leaders that enhances your long-term career growth. 

Built on extensive  research, this highly sought-after certification assesses the technical competencies, skills, and abilities required on the job in today's world.

Here's how the NIGP-CPP can help you move forward in your professional career journey:

• Emphasizes technical competencies vs. knowledge
• Flexibility for the fast-paced professional
• Focuses on the full scope of technical competencies required of successful leaders on the job today
• Sets a new industry standard
• Built on solid research. 
   

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Fall Conference and Products Exposition
SEPTEMBER 24-26 | Dalton, GA

PUBLIC PURCHASERS ASSOCIATION OF NORTHERN OHIO
Reverse Trade Show
SEPTEMBER 25 | Warrensville Heights, OH

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

READ MORE

FREE RESOURCES

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

Public procurement professionals are paired with more experienced NIGP members who can provide guidance on professional development opportunities and offer other career-related advice on an on-going basis.

Join as a Mentor or Mentee.

READ MORE 

WORD OF THE WEEK

Charette Process - a public forum in which the entity seeks the public’s input and informs them of general ideas and plans, for upcoming construction projects.

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

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
Scholarships Available for the IMPACT Program

Are you a mid to senior-level leader? If so, you don't want to miss this opportunity. 

The Impact cohort is an exceptional gathering of mid to senior-level public procurement practitioners dedicated to addressing the top leadership challenges in a collaborative and supportive environment. 

What past attendees are saying about IMPACT: 

"Impact goes beyond any other leadership training that I have taken. Learning to know yourself so that you can better lead and coach others is priceless."

"I've gained thorough knowledge of what leadership is and can be through different lenses depending on situations."

"Impact was a great opportunity to get to know other leaders in my field. I look forward to implementing the new ideas into my organization."

Scholarships cover the early registration fee of $850. Deadline to apply is September 13. 

APPLY TODAY

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Katrina House, NIGP-CPP, NIGP-PPA, CPPB
Certified Procurement Analyst, Purchasing 
City of Tampa, FL 

I was inspired to take my career to the next level by my mentors Greg Spearman, Joe Benjamin, Tony McGee, and Carrie Mathes - they instilled in me the value of becoming certified.

I began my journey by taking several NIGP courses and volunteering within my chapter. I was one of the first 127 professionals to obtain the NIGP-PPA and also earned my CPPB. I was encouraged to aim higher for the latest and greatest certification in our profession and obtained the NIGP-CPP.  

During my journey, I have been able to present on the local and State levels with my chapters. I have served as a volunteer, served with my local chapter as our Pro-D (TBAC), on our State chapter (FAPPO) as the Communications Chair and currently serve as one of the newest mefmbers of NIGP’s Pipeline and Placement Committee. I have been blessed to have my first mentee through the NIGP’s mentor program (Deanna Istre  Kentucky), and have served  as a Co-Facilitator (twice) for our NIGP-CPP study groups. I was also recently appointed by my State Chapter to Chair our Annual Fall Conference and will be a co-chair for our Spring Conference.

Being a part of NIGP’s family has enriched my life in ways I could never imagine. I'm humbled and grateful for the support and encouragement of my husband (Alejandro), my mentors, my mentee, local and state leaders and, of course, the one and only, Rick Grimm,  for believing in me and allowing me to believe in myself.

FORUM 2024 THANK YOU

Our Biggest Turnout in NIGP History
3,000+ Attendees for both in-person and virtual 
Thank You For Making NIGP Forum 2024 a Success

Here's a brief recap: Procurement professionals from across North America came together in person and virtually for an unforgettable four day experience that included customized educational sessions, (all live streamed), networking opportunities, supplier connections, and inspiring speakers designed to re-energize and prepare the procurement community for what's next in the profession as we continue to drive procurement forward! 

2024 NIGP Individual Award Winners:

• Keith Glatz - Albert H. Hall Award and 2024 Fellow
• John Edmondson - Distinguished Service Award
• Joe Tommie, Jr. - Distinguished Service Award
• Danny Mays - Distinguished Service Award
• Brian  Smith - Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service Award
• Valerie Scott - Ella Pierce Award for Inclusion and Diversity
• Krystyna Owen - Procurement Manager of the Year
• Casey Adams - Procurement Specialist of the Year
• Carl Bonitto - Volunteer Award
• Bobbie Tolston - Integrity Award
• Lourdes Coss - Leadership Award
• Jianchong Luo - Young Professional Award 
   

COMPLETE LIST OF AWARD WINNERS

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP...The Premier Certification

NIGP-CPP is the most sought-after certification for leaders in public procurement.

In addition to validating your competencies, abilities, and skills, this certification is portable, transferable and world class. NIGP-CPP is now only the second procurement and contracting certification (NIGP and NCMA) to achieve accreditation by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), the most prestigious personnel certification accreditation program worldwide.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. 

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Fall Conference and Products Exposition
SEPTEMBER 24-26 | Dalton, GA

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NEW Global Best Practice: Managing A Remote Workforce

This global best practice provides guidance to public procurement leaders on effectively managing a remote workforce. Like other business sectors, public procurement has faced changes and challenges in recent years as more employees are performing their work at home or in remote offices.

Although managing a remote workforce has created a new challenge for procurement leaders, many have established some best practices.

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Make or Buy  -  a procurement decision that examines the cost/benefit of producing an item in-house vs. externally. Two factors that stand out at the tactical level are total cost of ownership and the availability of production capacity.

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

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
Emerging Leaders - Apply for the EDGE Program

Scholarships are Available for Accepted Applicants

What past attendees are saying about EDGE: 

"This experience was truly transformational. It helped me identify my strengths and pain points and to develop a strategy that would propel me forward."

"If anyone wants to better understand why leadership is important in any profession and the difference between leadership and management, Edge is for you."

"The support, encouragement, collaboration, teaching and networking opportunities are phenomenal."
Edge offers a dynamic platform for emerging leaders to collaborate with peers and master today's top leadership principles.

This year's program runs from November 5, 2024 through March 4, 2025 and features a blend of virtual sessions and in-person sessions that take place at Leadership Summit.  . 

APPLY TODAY

PROCUREMENT MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Krystyna Owen, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Purchasing Agent
City of Norfolk, VA

Colleagues say, Krystyna's not “just a leader worth following, but a true public procurement professional.” Never satisfied with the status quo, she continually pushes her department forward with initiatives to increase public participation, employee engagement, and technological advancement.

She encourages her team to grow through NIGP training and gives them difficult procurement assignments, reminding them there is always a solution to a problem, it just might take a village to solve it!

As a government employee, she exemplifies what it means to go out and do good in the world. She applies sound judgment and inscrutable logic when decision-making to ensure favorable outcomes for all parties involved, making determinations based on merit without bias or favoritism.

Her transparency is unwavering as she provides clear and accessible information to all stakeholders. In addition to personally adhering to these principles, she actively leads and inspires others to do the same.

Krystyna's mentorship and guidance cultivate a culture of integrity and excellence within the procurement team and beyond.

PROCUREMENT SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD

Casey Adams, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Senior Contract Officer
City of Tucson, AZ

Service is Casey's true North Star. He takes a “customer comes first” approach to his role in procurement, ensuring ethical alignment with suppliers and stakeholders.

Casey is the Copper Chapter President, leading with a blend of humility, honesty, and quiet humor. His journey to Chapter President started in 2019 when he first joined his local NIGP chapter. Since then, he has held several positions, including being on the Communications, Education, Nominations, Reverse Trade Show, Seminar, and Special Events committees. He's never afraid to lend a helping hand where needed and continually seeks innovative ways to serve his chapter, city, and greater community.

He is currently leading an initiative in his Chapter to revise the by-laws to ensure they are fair and align with the chapter’s overall goals, including allowing a more diverse group of professionals to attain scholarships.

Additionally, he's been a regular attendee of Forum since 2020 and completed the Leader’s Edge program in 2023. Casey has been described as “the picture-perfect example of a person who embodies the guiding principles of procurement.”

COMPLETE LIST OF PMOY AND PSOY NOMINEES

NIGP CHAPTER RECOGNITION

OUTSTANDING AWARD WINNERS

Outstanding Chapter Awards recognize outstanding chapter practices and innovations in these categories -Chapter Operations, Chapter Advocacy and Outreach, and Chapter Professional Development.  

Outstanding Chapter Operations Award
Oklahoma Association of Public Procurement

Outstanding Chapter Advocacy and Outreach
Rocky Mountain Governmental Purchasing Association

Outstanding Professional Development
Central Florida Chapter of NIGP

Special shout-out to all the chapters that participated in the 2024 Outstanding Chapter Award program. 

PERFORMANCE STANDARD SEALS

Each year, participating chapters receive an annual score which records their progress in achieving excellence. The program recognizes standards as platinum, gold, silver and bronze seals. This year's recipients include:  

Platinum Performance Standard Seal Recipients

Arizona State Capitol Chapter
Central Florida Chapter
Copper Chapter
Maryland Public Purchasing  Association
Oklahoma Association of Public Procurement
South Carolina Association of  Governmental Purchasing Officials
Tampa Bay Area Chapter
Virginia Association of Government Procurement 

COMPLETE LIST OF 2024 SEAL RECIPIENTS

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 17,000+ 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

Ultra Vires Action - an action that is beyond the powers granted by authority or by law.

From the 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

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22 | Chicago, IL 

Scholarships Available for Edge & Impact Programs

Thanks to the generous support of our government partner Sourcewell, NIGP will be offering members $200,000 in scholarships. In addtion to the variety of professional development scholarship opportunities, we're excited to offer scholarships to the Edge and Impact programs. Applications are now open, Apply today. 

Edge Program - scholarships are available for accepted applicants. Edge offers a dynamic platform for emerging leaders to collaborate with peers and master today's top leadership principles.This year's program runs from November 5, 2024 through March 4, 2025 featuring a blend of virtual sessions and in-person sessions that take place at Leadership Summit.  

Impact Program - scholarships are available for the Impact Program which is tailored for mid to senior-level leaders. These scholarships are designed for individuals who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Leadership Summit due to financial constraints. 

READ MORE

ALBERT H. HALL AWARD RECIPIENT

Keith Glatz, NIGP-CPP, CPPO
Purchasing & Contracts Manager
City of Tamarac, FL 

Keith Glatz is a procurement leader who has poured his heart and soul into his professional journey. He’s been bringing his passion for serving and dedication to public procurement for over 45 years. This is not just a profession, for Keith it’s his calling.

He’s a well-respected subject matter expert and mentor in the field of public procurement who is often identified as the “face” of professional, ethical, and transparent public procurement in South Florida.

Under Keith’s guidance, the City of Tamarac Procurement Department has made significant progress in small business, minority owned, and veteran owned – with business participation through outreach programs increasing the percentage of MBE/DBE/SBE/ contracts by 32%.

Keith has served NIGP in multiple capacities since becoming a member in 1993 and has attended every Forum since 1994. He served as the first Chair of the NIGP Governing Board, founding Chair of the NIGP Mentorship Committee and most recently as a Concierge Program Counselor. He’s also active on Radio NIGP where he hosts his own segment aimed at providing growth opportunities for listeners

Keith is an inspiration to us all and recipient of NIGP's highest honor, the Albert H. Hall award. 

NIGP VIRTUAL FORUM EXPERIENCE

It's Not Too Late To Register & Join Us Virtually
NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25-28

The virtual experience gives you:

• Opportunity to better manage your work and learning schedule for those who find it hard to get away or prefer virtual learning.  
• Access to the virtual platform for simple, easy to get to sessions from anywhere.
• On-demand access to all the content for 60 days after the conference ends, so you don't miss a single session.
• No travel means no hassle and even more savings.

VIRTUAL
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY

RADIO NIGP

August Show: NIGP Forum  2024
Interviews with NIGP Nominees & Award Winners

This month's show is the first of four featuring the nominees and winners of NIGP's Individual Member and Chapter Awards for 2024.

Highlights include:

The Forum Host Chapter (North Carolina Association of  Government Purchasing) shares exciting things to do and see in Charlotte, NC.

Interviews with nominees for the following awards:

• Procurement Manager of the Year
• Procurement Specialist of the Year
• Chapter Awards

Enjoy!

VIEW RADIO NIGP

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Fall Conference and Products Exposition
SEPTEMBER 24-26 | Dalton, GA

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Pathways Concierge Program 

Customized, complementary professional education services to help guide your career journey.

Experienced procurement and education professionals talk to members about their career goals and help identify their best professional path forward, and mentor them along the way using the NIGP Pathways program. 

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Hard Currency - a sound, widely accepted currency that is unlikely to fluctuate greatly or depreciate suddenly.

From the 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

We're Counting the Days...

NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25 - 28

Have you registered for the procurement event of the year? If not, what are you waiting for. This promises to be an epic experience and something you don't want to miss. 

Keep in mind you can join us virtually. The NIGP Forum content is based on current industry trends and what our members need most critically.

When you attend virtually, you have access to the same learning as in-person attendees and can earn up to 24 contact hours. All NIGP content will be streamed.

Check out the FORUM SESSION SCHEDULE along with session descriptions. There's also a PDF you can download.

VIRTUAL
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY

ALREADY REGISTERED FOR NIGP FORUM, GREAT NEWS...

THE MOBILE APP is now available for in-person attendees. Go to the App Store or Google Play Store and search: NIGP Forum 2024

THE VIRTUAL PLATFORM  is now open for virtual attendees. Go to: https://beeapp.bravuratechnologies.com/BEE-WEB/?id=A41BD855-5898-4250-BEE8-9C30BA38FC50#!/login

LOGIN INFO: Use the NIGP email you have on file. Use the password: Forum2024

2024 NIGP Distinguished Service Award Recipients

John Edmondson, NIGP-CPP, CPPO
Sr. Director of Procurement
Southwest Ohio Regional Transit Authority

John is a seasoned procurement leader with 19 years of experience. He is a visionary who challenges the status quo. He’s a catalyst for progress who turns ideas into reality. Through his leadership, the procurement team has successfully transformed from a department largely regarded as difficult to work with to one heralded for its dedication to customer service and continuous improvement.

Danny Mays, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, CPSM, CMPO, CPSD
Asst. State Court Administrator
Maryland Judiciary 

Throughout his 15-year career in public procurement, Danny has held notable positions, equipping him with extensive experience in managing and composing a diverse range of procurement activities. Danny maintains two priorities – always have time to help others and always leave public procurement better than it was the day before. His personal motto is,"Be the leader you will follow."

William Tommie, Jr., CPPO
Retired Purchasing Director
Cobb County Government, GA

Prior to moving to Georgia and county government, Joe served in procurement management positions for three South Carolina public school districts for over 30 years and was an active member of three NIGP Georgia Chapters. His approach to service transcends individual accolades, centering on the broader progression of procurement standards and the empowerment of the procurement community. 

NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: U.S. Supreme Court Ruling on Administrative Law Interpretation: Goodbye Ambiguity: Implications for Local Government Procurement by Kirk Buffington

The Supreme Court's ruling marks a significant shift in administrative law, with potential implications for local government procurement. While the decision introduces challenges related to increased litigation and the need for more precise contract terms, it also allows local governments to refine and strengthen their procurement practices. 

READ THE BLOG

2024 AEP Recipients

Established by the National Procurement Institute, Inc. (NPI), the Achievement of Excellence in Procurement (AEP) Award, is designed to recognize organizational excellence in public procurement. This prestigious annual award is earned by those organizations that demonstrate excellence by obtaining a high score based on criteria designed to measure innovation, professionalism, productivity, e-procurement, and leadership attributes of the procurement organization. 

Congratulations to the 198 successful applicants!  

2024 AEP RECIPIENTS

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

Pavilion: FREE Cooperative Contract Search

Buy what you need faster from 50,000+ suppliers on 100,000+ contracts from cooperatives, states, and local agencies.

Find shareable public entity contracts for anything and it's FREE!

Search by products, services, brands, and suppliers.

SEARCH CONTRACTS

WORD OF THE WEEK

Acceptance of Offer - The agreement of the Supplier to deliver the goods ordered for the price offered.

 From the 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

Have You Considered Joining Us Virtually?

NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25-28

Enjoy the same great learning as in-person attendees and earn up to 24 contact hours.

No travel means no hassle and you can stretch your budget dollars. Plus, you'll have on-demand access to all the content for 60 days after the conference ends, so you don't miss a single session.

The content is all based on industry trends and what our members need most critically. For example, the Monday plenary focuses on "How AI is Revolutionizing Technology and How We Work" and the Wednesday plenary explores 

"The Power of Leadership in Procurement," and features a panel of distinguished procurement leaders who share how leadership has not only shaped their careers but also elevated the procurement function to new heights. 

Check out the FORUM SESSION SCHEDULE along with session descriptions.  There's also a pdf you can download to zero-in on what sessions speak to you and the impact it will have on your work. 

Virtual
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY 

ANNE DEATHERAGE MERITORIOUS SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT

Brian Smith, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, PMP, MPA
Purchasing Manager
Multnomah County, OR

Brian Smith has been in public procurement for over 36 years and is an extraordinary leader who goes out of his way to put others first. 

When you meet Brian, you’re struck by his desire to do what’s best for others and what’s best for the profession. He’s always thinking about the next generation of procurement professional and how to open doors that may otherwise be closed.  

His ‘team’ is a top priority. His greatest satisfaction comes from witnessing their success. From seeing their talent ignite, their ideas blossom, and their dedication and determination turn into tangible results.

Brian's accolades include: NIGP Distinguished Service Award, NIGP Professional Manager of the Year, Columbia Chapter Manager of the Year, and Oregon Public Purchasing Association Manager of the Year.  

The Institute established the Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service Award in 2005 to honor the life-long career of Anne Deatherage, a faithful public procurement champion for 3+ decades.

FREE NIGP FORUM 2024 ORIENTATION WEBINARS

Wondering What To Expect From Forum?
We've Got You Covered.
Forum Orientation Webinars

Join us for one of these Forum orientations to preview what's ahead and learn how to maximize your time at Forum.

These webinars are presented by the NIGP Member Council and are ideal for first-time attendees or for those who want a refresher.

Get a heads-up on what to expect and engage with fellow attendees BEFORE the big event. 

Plus, you'll have the opportunity to get your important questions answered. Don't miss it!

Virtual Forum Orientation Webinar
Wednesday, August 14 | 2PM - 3PM (ET)
REGISTER TODAY

In-Person Forum Orientation Webinar
Thursday, August 15 | 2PM - 3PM (ET)
REGISTER TODAY

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP...The Premier Certification

The NIGP-CPP certification is the premier certification for leaders in public procurement.

From key procurement topics to leadership, strategy, business skills and operations, and everything in between, this certification tests the technical competencies, skills, and abilities needed to be a leader in procurement.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now.

In addition to validating the competencies, abilities, and skills you have, this certification validates your skills and are portable and transferable. 

Read More

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Fall Conference and Products Exposition
SEPTEMBER 24-26 | Dalton, GA

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

READ MORE

FREE RESOURCES

Webinar:  Collaborate to Innovate - Key Trends for Public Procurement in 2024
August 8 | 2PM - 3PM (ET) 

Get insights into the key trends in procurement such as: workforce shifts, the rising cost of business operations, considering AI and other emerging tools and more.

Brought to you by Euna Solutions.

REGISTER TODAY

WORD OF THE WEEK

Cardinal Change - a change that is beyond the scope of the contract, and thus cannot be ordered by the contracting officer under the contract’s change clause.

From the 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

NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22 | Chicago, IL 

Scholarships Available for Edge & Impact Programs

Thanks to the generous support of our government partner Sourcewell, NIGP will be offering members $200,000 in scholarships. In addtion to the variety of professional development scholarship opportunities, we're excited to offer scholarships to the Edge and Impact programs. Applications are now open, Apply today. 

Edge Program - scholarships are available for accepted applicants. Edge offers a dynamic platform for emerging leaders to collaborate with peers and master today's top leadership principles.This year's program runs from November 5, 2024 through March 4, 2025 featuring a blend of virtual sessions and in-person sessions that take place at Leadership Summit.  

Impact Program - scholarships are available for the Impact Program which is tailored for mid to senior-level leaders. These scholarships are designed for individuals who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Leadership Summit due to financial constraints. 

READ MORE

DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION AWARD

Valerie Scott, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Purchasing & Contracts Manager
City of Longmont, CO

Valerie Scott is a procurement leader who champions DEI in the workplace and recognizes the importance of creating a fair and equitable environment. Examples of her work include:

Initiating a Small Business Outreach Program - interacting directly with the small business community to understand their challenges

Piloting a Best Value Approach - reducing opportunity for bias to impact selection

Her devotion to DEI extends well into Valerie’s volunteer world and personal life. She’s a past board member of Safe Shelter of the St. Vrain Valley, which provides resources and education about domestic violence to the community including a robust legal program. 

And in 2023, Valerie volunteered her time at Shine Prom, a prom specifically for the special needs community. At the end of the night, each guest is crowned the king or queen of the prom. Valerie says, “it was my best night of the year!”

AGENCY ADVANCEMENT AWARD

Orange County Procurement Division
Orange County Government
Orlando, FL

The Contracting Academy was launched to tackle reduced competition in procurement due to market volatility. It’s no-cost educational initiative is aimed at demystifying the procurement process for potential suppliers, thus fostering broader community engagement.

The program’s curriculum, inaugurated in July 2023, spans essential topics like Procurement, Risk Management, Minority and Woman-Owned Business Development, and navigating the county’s e-procurement platform, OpenGov. 

By focusing on critical procurement processes and leveraging media for wider dissemination, the Contracting Academy aimed to cultivate a more competitive and informed supplier community within Orange County, marking a step forward in public procurement education and engagement.

We applaud Orange County’s dedication to drive excellence for the contractors in their community. 

NIGP FORUM SUPPLIERS

Announcing A New Procurated + NIGP Collaboration for Forum Suppliers 
The Forum Performance Kit 

The Forum Performance Kit: Tools and education resources to turbocharge the connection between suppliers and their government customers,

including:

• 2024 Virtual Forum Registration
• Procurated's Essentials Subscription
• NIGP's Public Procurement Supplier Essentials Core Certificate Course

Worth a combined $1,872, these powerful
tools and resources are available in
The Forum Performance Kit at a 20% discount.

BUY THE KIT TODAY 

FORUM VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE

Earn 24 Contact Hours - Virtual and In-Person Experience Offers The Same Great Content 
The virtual experience gives you:

Opportunity to better manage your work and learning schedule for those who find it hard to get away or if you prefer virtual learning. 

Access to the virtual platform for simple, easy to get to sessions from anywhere.

On-demand access to all the content for 60 days after the conference ends, so you don't miss a single session.

Opportunity to stretch your budget by learning more and earning more contact hours for less.

No travel means no hassle and even more savings.

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOUCES

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

Job Shadowing - a training technique that gives employees the opportunity to learn from more experienced employees by following and observing them in their daily job activities. 

From the 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

NIGP Forum Standard In-Person Registration Ends Friday!

Register Today & Save 

Connect with thousands of procurement professionals from across North  America! Experience dynamic networking sessions, hear inspirational keynote speakers, engage in new badged learning paths, participate in workshops, interact with top suppliers at the products expo and so much more. 

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT  - FORUM SESSION SCHEDULE

The content is all based on what our members need most critically.  For example, the Monday plenary focuses on "How AI is Revolutionizing Technology and How We Work" while the Wednesday plenary, "The Power of Leadership in Procurement," features a panel of distinguished procurement leaders who share how leadership has not only shaped their careers but also elevated the procurement function to new heights. 

IN-PERSON | CHARLOTTE
$999 Members; $1,200 Non-Members (Standard registration ends July 26).

VIRTUAL
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY 

SHARE YOUR WORK

Create a Poster Showcase of Your Work and Have It Displayed at the Products Expo on Sunday, August 25

Share your success story! The Procurement Excellence Showcase is a fun way to visually translate and transform your accomplishments.

Each participant, or group, will be assigned a space to display their poster presentation to fellow conference attendee and engage in meaningful conversations.

Submit An Abstract by Friday, July 26

To participate in the Showcase, you must submit an abstract to apply. Hurry, space is limited.

READ MORE

FORUM SOCIAL EVENT

Get Ready For A High Octane Social Event
At The Charlotte Motor Speedway
Monday, August 26

NIGP takes over the Speedway for an action-packed evening of food, drinks, music, dancing, games, and the chance to experience the excitement of NASCAR racing.

Experience Pure Speed - get behind the wheel of a real NASCAR race car and reach speeds up to 140 mph. Or ride shotgun with a professional driver in a NASCAR for a high-speed thrill exceeding 150 mph.
(Both options at an additional cost)

Don't forget to reserve your driving experience! Availability is limited. 

READ MORE

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL AWARD WINNER

Jianchong Luo, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Purchasing Manager
Henrico County, VA

Jianchong Luo's unwavering work ethic and infectious enthusiasm for public procurement are an inspiration to us all. In just over 10 years, he has soared from an intern at Old Dominion University where he earned his Master of Public Administration to his current position as Assistant Division Director at Henrico County Virginia Purchasing Department.

In this role, he leads the construction team and supervises surplus property sales. He has overseen major procurements such as the construction of a firehouse, a police station, the renovation of their ACE Center, an elementary school, a sewer project and the architectural and engineering services for a middle school replacement.

His contributions to Henrico County include creating the County’s First Job Order Contracting program and he's also digitized Henrico’s fixed asset process for surplus property and  modernized the paperwork for efficiency.

His involvement in professional associations include serving on the VAGP Professional Development Committee, a past member of the Public Relations Committee of VAGP, a past President of ISM-Eastern Virginia. And this month, he began his term on the NIGP Member Council. 

Congratulations Jianchong!

NIGP LEADERSHIP AWARD WINNER

Lourdes Coss, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, MPA
Consultant, Speaker, Executive Coach, Trainer
Chicago, IL

Lourdes Coss is a trailblazing procurement transformation leader whose career spans over 30+ years of groundbreaking achievements. Her contributions have made a lasting impact in public procurement and beyond.

With a humble beginning, Lourdes rose to become a Chief Procurement Officer, leaving an indelible mark in some of the largest agencies in the U.S., including the City of Chicago, the City of Houston, Cook County, and the University of Illinois. 

Today Lourdes channels her wealth of experience and expertise into guiding individuals and organizations toward unprecedented success through dynamic training, insightful consulting, and personalized coaching. 

She holds various certifications to support her leadership development programs and is recognized as one of the top 100 Women Thought Leaders to Follow by Thinkers360 and as one of the Top 10 Global Influencers and Thought Leaders in Procurement.

Lourdes, thank you for all you do!

ANNOUNCING A NEW PROCURATED + NIGP COLLABORATION FOR FORUM SUPPLIERS...
The Forum Performance Kit

The Forum Performance Kit: Tools and education resources to turbocharge the connection between suppliers and their government customers, including:

• 2024 Virtual Forum Registration
• Procurated's Essentials Subscription
• NIGP's Public Procurement Supplier Essentials Core Certificate Course

Worth a combined $1,872, these powerful tools and resources are available in The Forum Performance Kit at a 20% discount.

BUY THE KIT TODAY

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NEW Global Best Practice: Managing A Remote Workforce

This global best practice provides guidance to public procurement leaders on effectively managing a remote workforce. Like other business sectors, public procurement has faced changes and challenges in recent years as more employees are performing their work at home or in remote offices.

Although managing a remote workforce has created a new challenge for procurement leaders, many have established some best practices.

READ MORE 

WORD OF THE WEEK

Retainage -  a percentage of funds due to a contractor that are withheld until the work has been satisfactorily completed and all subcontractors are paid.

Normally used in construction contracts. 

From the 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

Save the Date for NIGP Leadership Summit 2025
February 20-22 | Chicago, IL 

Scholarships Available for Edge & Impact Programs

Thanks to the generous support of our government partner Sourcewell, NIGP will be offering members $200,000 in scholarships from now through June 2025. In addtion to the variety of professional development scholarship opportunities, we're excited to offer scholarships to the Edge and Impact programs. Applications are now open, Apply today. 

Edge Program - scholarships are available for accepted applicants. Edge offers a dynamic platform for emerging leaders to collaborate with peers and master today's top leadership principles.This year's program runs from November 5, 2024 through March 4, 2025 featuring a blend of virtual sessions and in-person sessions that take place at Leadership Summit.  

Impact Program - scholarships are available for the Impact Program which is tailored for mid to senior-level leaders. These scholarships are designed for individuals who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend Leadership Summit due to financial constraints. 

READ MORE 

VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Carl Bonitto, CSCMP
Manager of Purchasing & Risk Management Svcs.
Northumberland County, ON

Carl leads by example, quietly and diligently working behind the scenes to address the challenges facing our profession. He is laser-focused on the needs of others and steadfastly committed to the principle that true fulfillment comes from making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around them.

He earned the Supply Chain Management Professional (SCMP) designation through Supply Chain Canada in 2009 which helped propel him into his position at Northumberland County where he has worked for the past 15 years. He’s taught for the Ontario Public Buyers Association since 2010, is an NIGP instructor, and was one of the pioneers in establishing the NIGP-CPP certification as the NIGP Certification Commission Chair. He currently serves on the NIGP Member Council.

Carl actively encourages individuals to volunteer and contribute to the greater good. His quiet leadership and unwavering commitment to service have created a ripple effect that extends far beyond the borders of Canada, touching the lives of many in our profession and beyond.

INTEGRITY AWARD WINNER

Bobbie Tolston, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Energy Conservation Resource Manager
Hartford County Public Schols, MD 

Once you meet Bobbie Tolston, you are never the same. Her presence, personality and exuberance for life make her an unforgettable friend, an unforgettable instructor, and an unforgettable professional with high moral standards and values that guide every decision, every action and her every word.

Bobbie’s unwavering integrity is legendary. Leadership comes in many forms, but true leadership, the kind that inspires lasting loyalty and dedication is built on strong moral principles.

She’s a procurement leader with over 20 years of experience in public procurement. She currently serves as the Energy Conservation Resource Manager for Hartford County Schools (HCPS) in Maryland. HCPS has 37,000 students and 54 schools. When she speaks about sustainability and the recycling program she led in a middle school in Hartford County, you immediately see and feel the passion and integrity she brings to the profession.

Bobbie is a member of the NIGP Talent Council, Mentorship Committee, an NIGP Instructor, and a Radio NIGP personality.

LEGALLY SPEAKING

NIGP Blog: Snyder v United States, Bribery or Gratuity by Kirk Buffington

In the recent U.S. Supreme Court case, Snyder v. United States, the distinction between a bribe and a gratuity became a focal point, reversing a lower court's decision on what constitutes bribery in government procurement. This case involved a payment termed a "gratuity" made after awarding a $1.1 million procurement contract.

The Supreme Court's ruling underscores a nuanced legal landscape where the timing and intent behind payments to government officials can differentiate a gratuity from a bribe. While legal definitions and court rulings will continue to evolve, the commitment of procurement professionals to ethics should remain steadfast.

READ COMPLETE BLOG 

CHAPTER EVENTS

Upcoming Chapter Events

ARIZONA STATE CAPITOL CHAPTER OF NIGP August Career Seminar II
AUGUST 6 | Phoenix, AZ 

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING CHAPTER OF NIGP 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

READ MORE

RADIO NIGP

Radio NIGP July 2024 - Forum Strategies Part I
The team discusses the many ways you can maintain your energy throughout Forum.

Learn more about the planned activities from the Forum Social Planning Task Force comprised of delegates from both the Member Council and Talent Council.

Hear some quick tips on what to bring, how to pack, and a bonus suggested packing list to help you get ready to go to Charlotte!

VIEW RADIO NIGP

WORD OF THE WEEK

Hard Currency  -  a sound, widely accepted currency that is unlikely to fluctuate greatly or depreciate suddenly.

From the 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

It's An Incredible Opportunity To Connect With Industry Leaders

NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25-28

Think Forum is just a bunch of stuffy lectures? Think again! Hear inspiring keynote speakers, get hands-on experience from subject matter experts, engage in workshops and interactive sessions on topics that impact you and your entity. Enjoy networking activities, meaningful conversations, meet top government suppliers at the products expo and so much more.

Invest in yourself and your professional development. You won't regret it. 

If this is your first-time attending Forum, check-out these FIRST TIMER FAQs and get ready for an unforgettable experience. If you're still on the fence, these FAQs may help you decide to step outside of your comfort zone and join us at Forum 2024.

In-Person | Charlotte
$999 Members; $1,200 Non-Members

Virtual
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY (Standard registration ends July 26). 

FORUM KEYNOTE

Jeremy Poincenot
Renowned Keynote Speaker & Blind Golf Champion
"Together We Are Limitless"
Wednesday, August 28  

Jeremy inspires audiences to achieve the extraordinary. At 19, Jeremy’s life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with Leber’s Hereditary Optic Neuropathy (LHON), a rare genetic disorder that led to the loss of his central vision.  Initially viewing this as a life-limiting setback, Jeremy soon realized that every challenge comes with an opportunity for growth.  With determination and the support of his family and friends, he not only adapted to his new reality but also excelled in it.

Today, he works with organizations as they face unprecedented challenges, showing them that the path to their greatest results will be in the way they find solutions TOGETHER. 

Don't miss Jeremy's closing plenary session at Forum 2024 on Wednesday, August 28.

FORUM SHOWCASE

The Procurement Excellence Showcase
Create a Poster Presentation of Your Work and Have It Displayed at the Products Expo on Sunday, August 25

We invite individuals, groups, and chapters (up to 3 people) to be a part of this unique experience. 

Share your success story! The Procurement Excellence Showcase is a fun way to visually translate and transform your accomplishments.

Each participant, or group, will be assigned a space to display their poster presentation to fellow conference attendee and engage in meaningful conversations.

Submit An Abstract

To participate in the Showcase, you must submit an abstract to apply. Hurry, space is limited. The first approved 40 applications will participate in our first-ever Procurement Excellence Showcase.

READ MORE

PROCUREMENT MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARD

TOP 3 FINALISTS

Stephanie Brown, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Procurement Director
County of Chesterfield,  VA

Stephanie Brown began working for her organization in a non-buying role 12+ years ago and today is the Director of Procurement. Her innovative approach to procurement was evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when she automated office operations. Her focus on modernization and streamlining operations has allowed for greater autonomy throughout the County while fostering greater transparency. For the betterment of her county, she restructured her department to create a Supplier Diversity and Outreach position which led to increased spend with more diverse vendors. She also recently led an effort to proactively renegotiate the county’s body-worn camera contract, generating over $1 million in savings for the public safety division. 

Linda Hodgson, CPPB
Agency Contracts Training Manager
WA State Dept. of Social & Health Services 

Linda Hodgson has served public procurement for 17 years until her recent retirement from the Washington State Department of Enterprise Services and is a career-long NIGP member. She has been described as “a true public servant” and “an absolute gem” by her team members and was recognized for bringing innovation and strategic thinking in every solicitation she managed. 

As a senior member of her work team, she has onboarded six peers over the last two years, providing mentorship to help them succeed in their procurement activities. She has also served as an NIGP mentor, helping to guide the next generation of procurement professionals to follow her model of accountability, ethical responsibility, impartiality, and professionalism. 

Krystyna Owen, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Purchasing Agent
City of Norfolk, VA

Colleagues say, she’s not “just a leader worth following, but also a true public procurement professional.” Krystyna Owen is at the forefront of procurement at the City of Norfolk VA. She continually pushes her department forward with initiatives to increase public participation, employee engagement, and technological advancement.

When she joined the City several years ago, customer service seemed bleak. However, she and her team were able to turn things around for the City’s procurement operation in a few short years: the overall satisfaction level with procurement services in 2024 is 94%!. Krystyna  says, “My team embraced the changes and stood up to the task of a renewed mindset and hard work, and believed in ME and our team’s ability to provide excellent services.”

Winner to be announced at the NIGP Forum Awards Dinner on Sunday, August 25.

FREE RESOURCES - NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: Understanding Cyber Insurance for Local Government by Kirk Buffington

In an era where digital threats loom large and cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly sophisticated, the necessity for robust cybersecurity measures within local city governments cannot be overstated.

Investing in cyber insurance coverage is essential for today's local city governments. Discover how to protect your municipality and its citizens from hackers and other cyber threats in this latest blog post by Kirk Buffington.

READ THE BLOG

WORD OF THE WEEK

One Hundred Percent (100%) Inspection - inspection of every unit of product, each of which is accepted or rejected individually for the characteristics inspected.

From the 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

Attend In-Person or Virtually...Access The Same Great Content

NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25-28

No matter which way you choose to attend the NIGP Forum, you'll have access to the same learning and can earn up to 24 contact hours.

The content is all based on industry trends and what our members need most critically. Chances are high that many, if not all the sessions, will have a real-world impact on your specific job or address a challenge you may be going through at your entity.

Check out the FORUM SESSION SCHEDULE along with session descriptions.  There's also a pdf you can download to zero-in on what sessions speak to you and the impact it will have on your work. 

In-Person | Charlotte
$999 Members; $1,200 Non-Members

Virtual
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY

MY FORUM STORY

Rogelio Anasagasti, CPPO, MED
Asst. Vice President and Chief Procurement Officer
The University of Texas at Austin 

To be honest, I can’t tell you exactly when I first attended Forum. It was at least 20 years ago, maybe even 25. What I can tell you is that the event is unlike any other professional development event I have attended. The knowledge I gain every year and the people I meet and reconnect with make me want to keep going back.

Forum is about bringing people from the profession together who might otherwise never meet. This is one way I hope to help guide the next generation of procurement professionals.

The call to bring up the next generation of professionals is part of what attracts me to the world of higher education. Speaking at Forum is a natural progression of that calling.

READ COMPLETE BLOG

REV UP YOUR ENGINES

Get Ready For A High Octane Social Event at the Charlotte Motor Speedway
Monday, August 26

NIGP takes over the Speedway for an action-packed evening of food, drinks, music, dancing, games, and the chance to experience the excitement of NASCAR racing. Choose your thrill:

Fun For All Without The Speed -  participate in activities like NASCAR and VR simulators, cornhole, and games.

Experience Pure Speed - get behind the wheel of a real NASCAR race car and reach speeds up to 140 mph. Or ride shotgun with a professional driver in a NASCAR for a high-speed thrill exceeding 150 mph.
(Both options at an additional cost)

Go Kart Racing - race colleagues on a new, world championship-spec 13-turn, 0.65-mile high-performance go karting track.

READ MORE

PROCUREMENT SPECIALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD

TOP 3 FINALISTS 

Winner to be announced at NIGP Forum Awards Dinner on Sunday, August 25.

Casey Adams, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Senior Contract Officer
City of Tucson, AZ

This nominee may be up for Procurement Specialist of the Year, but service is his true North Star. He takes a “customer comes first” approach to his role in procurement, ensuring ethical alignment with suppliers and stakeholders.

He currently serves as a Chapter President. His journey to Chapter President started in 2019 when he first joined his local NIGP chapter. Since then, he has held several positions, including being on the Communications, Education, Nominations, Reverse Trade Show, Seminar, and Special Events committees. He is never afraid to lend a helping hand where needed and continually seeks innovative ways to serve his chapter, city, and greater community. 

Evan Amidan
Procurement Officer II
Ada County, Idaho

He’s a testament to the idea that procurement specialists can come from all backgrounds and walks of life, bringing new ideas to the organizations they serve even when they have no prior procurement experience. He started his procurement career in 2017 after graduating with a degree in Supply Chain Management. Even though he didn’t have “a lick of procurement experience” when he was interviewed, it was clear from the outset that he had something special to bring to the department.

He is driven to get the best value for his County and its taxpayers by zealously adhering to a fair, transparent, competitive process. Ada County is so glad Evan Amidan decided to take a role in procurement, and so are we.

Breann Aggers
Procurement Strategist
WA Dept. of Enterprise Services

This talented individual is known for never backing down from a challenge. Instead, she charges forward with the most difficult procurements requiring the highest standards, such as Bulk Fuel, Green Janitorial, and Snow/Ice removal. She recently took the lead on two solicitations that were behind schedule and increased efficiency in completing important contracting tasks, like market research, business outreach, and agency subject matter expert meetings, in a limited amount of time to meet her deadline.

Even when working on a deadline, this nominee always takes the time to help others grasp tough concepts. Her team values her commitment to upholding high professional standards and accepting even the most challenging assignments.

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Pathways Concierge Program 

Customized, complementary professional education services to help guide your career journey.

Experienced procurement and education professionals talk to members about their career goals and help identify their best professional path forward, and mentor them along the way using the NIGP Pathways program. 

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Last In-First Out (LIFO) -  a warehousing inventory term used to indicate that the latest received materials are to be used first, and the materials received earlier are to be left on hand.

From the 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

The Premier Public Procurement Event of The Year

NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25-28

What You Can Expect: Forum Webinar Recording 
Hear firsthand from NIGP experts and featured speakers who lead you through a detailed overview of what you can look forward to experiencing at Forum 2024 - content sessions, networking opportunities, new badged learning paths, the speedway social and so much more.

VIEW WEBINAR RECORDING

In-Person | Charlotte
$999 Members; $1,200 Non-Members

Virtual
$399 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY 

NIGP SPOTLIGHT

Justin Dearing 
Learning Systems Manager
Herndon, VA

What Members say:

"Justin is approachable, pleasant and helpful to everyone."

"He's a steadfast supporter of NIGP Members, Instructors and Staff."

Justin began his journey with NIGP in 2005 (19 years ago) when he was 22 years old.

He was the Support Services Coordinator managing in-person course materials, mailroom and office supplies.

Shortly thereafter he was promoted to Office Manager, then Content Delivery Administrator.

Fast forward to today, Justin is the Learning Systems Manager, managing ASPIRE our learning management systems along with our virtual event platforms.

SHOWCASE YOUR WORK

The Procurement Excellence Showcase
Create a Poster Presentation of Your Work and Have It Displayed at the Products Expo on Sunday, August 25

We invite individuals, groups, and chapters (up to 3 people) to be a part of this unique experience. 

The Procurement Excellence Showcase will feature a summary of your work (research, case studies, programs, or initiatives) using posters. This is a fun way to visually translate and transform your accomplishments.

Each participant, or group, will be assigned a space to display their poster presentation to fellow conference attendee and engage in meaningful conversations.

Submit An Abstract

To participate in the Showcase, you must submit an abstract to apply. Hurry, space is limited. The first approved 40 applications will participate in our first-ever Procurement Excellence Showcase.

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Achieves Accreditation by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) 

The NIGP-CPP certification program is now only the second procurement and contracting certification (NIGP and NCMA) to achieve accreditation by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), the most prestigious personnel certification accreditation program worldwide.  

By earning ANAB’s accreditation, the achievement validates that NIGP-CPP certification, attained by more than 1,500 procurement leaders throughout North America, meets those standards.

Reminder: Registration and payment for August 2024 testing closes on June 30, 2024. There's still time to apply and register at the current rates. 

New pricing goes into effect on July 1, 2024 for November 2024 testing.

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

ARIZONA STATE CAPITOL CHAPTER OF NIGP August Career Seminar II
AUGUST 6 | Phoenix, AZ 

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING CHAPTER OF NIGP 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT OFFICIALS
Fall Conference & Supplier Conference
OCTOBER 9-11 | Oakbrook, IL

READ MORE

FREE RESOURCES

New Global Best Practice: Managing a Remote Workforce

Like other business sectors, public procurement has faced changes and challenges in recent years as more employees are performing their work at home or in remote offices.

Agencies across the world, including thousands of NIGP members, have adopted alternative work schedules in recent years. These changes, initially driven by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations and state and local regulations during the pandemic, have now become standard practice. As a result, work schedules for public procurement professionals have evolved.

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Notice of Award   -  a written notification from a public entity to a successful bidder or proposer stating that a contract has been awarded to them in accordance with a bid or proposal they previously submitted. Effective with receipt, the supplier or contractor shall proceed with performance.

This allows work to start while the contract is printed and readied for distribution.

From the 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

Managing A Remote Workforce...

NEW Global Best Practice Provides Guidance As Our Work Environment Changes

Like other business sectors, public procurement has faced changes and challenges in recent years as more employees are performing their work at home or in remote offices.

Current State

Agencies across the world, including thousands of NIGP members, have adopted alternative work schedules in recent years. These changes, initially driven by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations and state and local regulations during the pandemic, have now become standard practice. As a result, work schedules for public procurement professionals have evolved. 

Technology Adoption

In a testament to the resiliency of public procurement, agencies put digital procurement systems in place that allowed for the submission of electronic bids and proposals. 

Management Practices
Although managing a remote workforce has created a new challenge for public procurement leaders, many have risen to the challenge and established some best practices.

READ MORE

MY FORUM STORY

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

I started my procurement career 24 years ago in Plantation, Florida, and I am proud to say that I have stayed there to this day.

Inspired by Energy
If I could describe that first Forum experience in one word, it would be inspiring. The event opened my eyes to the collection and diversity of thought within the procurement atmosphere. It was amazing to be surrounded by procurement colleagues I didn’t even know existed, dealing with the same challenges I was facing and handling them in different ways.

Forum is an event that challenges you to change the status quo...it inspires real change in commnunities. Being able to come back to your agency and make changes that have a noticeable, positive impact is a key reason I keep coming back.

READ COMPLETE BLOG

A SPEEDWAY SOCIAL

Get Ready For A High Octane Social Event at the Charlotte Motor Speedway
Monday, August 26

NIGP takes over the Speedway for an action-packed evening of food, drinks, music, dancing, games, and the chance to experience the excitement of NASCAR racing. Choose your thrill:

Fun For All Without The Speed -  participate in activities like NASCAR and VR simulators, cornhole, and games.

Experience Pure Speed - get behind the wheel of a real NASCAR race car and reach speeds up to 140 mph. Or ride shotgun with a professional driver in a NASCAR for a high-speed thrill exceeding 150 mph.
(Both options at an additional cost)

Go Kart Racing - race colleagues on a new, world championship-spec 13-turn, 0.65-mile high-performance go karting track.

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Certification Handbook, 5th Edition

NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP. 

The NIGP-CPP Certification Handbook is your essential and principal source of information for the NIGP-CPP program.

From eligibility requirements to testing policies, the handbook includes everything you need to evaluate the program and complete the certification and recertification requirements.

Reminder: Registration and payment for August 2024 testing closes on June 30, 2024. There's still time to apply and register at the current rates. 

New pricing goes into effect on July 1, 2024 for November 2024 testing.

VIEW THE HANDBOOK

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

ARIZONA STATE CAPITOL CHAPTER OF NIGP August Career Seminar II
AUGUST 6 | Phoenix, AZ 

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING CHAPTER OF NIGP 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
66th Professional Development Conference
SEPTEMBER 25-27 | Ottawa, ON

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS
Fall Conference
OCTOBER 2-4 | Detroit, MI

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PROCUREMENT OFFICIALS
Fall Conference & Supplier Conference
OCTOBER 9-11 | Oakbrook, IL

READ MORE

RADIO NIGP

Theme: How to Avoid "Use It  or Lose It" Spending - Part II 

Highlights include:

Year End Spending Tips - taking a deeper dive into tight budgets and reduced spending and why it's important to use the funds allocated to your agency or run the risk of losing those funds. 

ANSI-ANAB Accreditation -  Rick Grimm, NIGP CEO, shares key points on how this prestigious accreditation impacts NIGP-CPP certification

Plan Ahead & Save - Chanda Taylor Carpenter, NIGP's Director of Content Research, discusses how you can plan an entire year of professional development and save. 

VIEW RADIO NIGP

WORD OF THE WEEK

Clarification  - a communication with a proposer for the sole purpose of eliminating minor irregularities or apparent clerical mistakes in a proposal.

A clarification may be initiated by either the proposer or purchaser and does not give the proposer an opportunity to revise or modify its proposal, except to the extent that the correction of the apparent clerical mistakes results in revision.

From the 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

Congratulations To Our NEW NIGP-CPPs 

A Total of 1,513 NIGP-CPP Certifications Have Been Awarded To Date

The May exam results are in and we're pleased to introduce 160 NEW NIGP-CPPs.

When NIGP launched the NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP) certification in 2020, we knew
from research that a competency-based certification for procurement leaders was needed and wanted.

The exam is a scenario-based exam, and it assesses the technical competencies, skills, abilities, and behaviors required of a procurement leader on the job in today's world.

ANSI Recognized Worldwide

The NIGP-CPP is accredited under the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) ISO/IEC 17024 Standards. ANAB is the most prestigious personnel certification body worldwide. It's a pinnacle achievement for the Institute and a deserved honor for NIGP-CPPs whose credential carries the weight of an international standard.

COMPLETE LIST OF NIGP-CPPS 

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Kelly Vickers, NIGP-CPP, CPPO
Administrative Services Manager II
Procurement - Management Information Services
Office of Shared Administration
West Virginia Departments of Health, Health Families, and Human Services

I am honored to have received the NIGP Certified Procurement Professional (NIGP-CPP) designation. This certification has profoundly impacted my career by enhancing my technical competencies, skills, and abilities in public procurement. The rigorous, scenario-based exams have equipped me with a deeper understanding of procurement processes and best practices, allowing me to excel in my role and contribute more effectively to my organization.

Being part of a prestigious group of over 1,500 procurement leaders who have achieved this certification has significantly boosted my professional credibility and opened new opportunities for career advancement. The recognition by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB) further validates the value and rigor of this certification. I am grateful for NIGP's commitment to professional development and am proud to be part of the NIGP community.

Thank you, NIGP, for supporting my journey towards excellence in public procurement.

SHOWCASE YOUR WORK

The Procurement Excellence Showcase
A New Way To Highlight Your Accomplishments

Create a Poster Presentation of Your Work and Have It Displayed at the Products Expo on Sunday, August 25

The Procurement Excellence Showcase will feature a summary of your work (research, case studies, programs, or initiatives) using posters. This is a fun way to visually translate and transform your accomplishments.

We invite individuals, groups, and chapters (up to 3 people) to be a part of this unique experience. 

Each participant, or group, will be assigned a space to display their poster presentation to fellow conference attendee and engage in meaningful conversations.

Submit An Abstract

To participate in the Showcase, you must submit an abstract to apply. Hurry, space is limited. The first approved 40 applications will participate in our first-ever Procurement Excellence Showcase.

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

What Makes NIGP-CPP Unique? 

The NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP.

Target:  Procurement Leaders
Source:  Public Procurement Competency Framework
Standards:  Designed to Follow Professional Certification Criteria
Focus:  Competency-Based Modular Exams
Flexibility:  Designed with the Fast-Paced Professional in Mind
Equity:  All Candidates Treated the Same
Relevance:  Certification is Integrated with Research and Life-Long Learning
Career Planning:  NIGP’s Credentialing System Provides Variety
Service Level:  NIGP is Committed to Providing Exceptional Service

READ MORE 

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 14 | Tampa, FL

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION
Annual Meeting - Virtual
JUNE 20 

ARIZONA STATE CAPITOL CHAPTER OF NIGP
August Career Seminar II
AUGUST 6 | Phoenix, AZ 

MISSOURI ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING CHAPTER OF NIGP 
Professional Development Day
SEPTEMBER 20 | Lebanon, MO 

NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: Buyers' Rights When Quantities Are Vague by Kirk Buffington

In contracts, language surrounding quantities can be a gray area. Many of us include terms indicating that all quantities are estimates and not binding. But what happens when this is challenged? 

Kirk examines two cases and what becomes evident is that buyers' rights in contracts with vague quantities is nuanced and multifaceted. Both cases serve as instructive examples emphasizing the importance of clarity, good faith, and mutual understanding in contractual relationships, regardless of the precision of quantity specifications. 

READ COMPLETE BLOG

WORD OF THE WEEK

Scope of Work - a written description of an entity’s needs and desired outcomes for a procurement developed at the beginning of the procurement cycle.

The scope of work is the basis for any resulting solicitation; it helps ensure that the product or service meets the stated outcome and establishes the parameters of the resulting contract.

From the 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

A New & Exciting Way To Highlight Your Accomplishments...  

The NIGP Procurement Excellence Showcase

Create a Poster Presentation of Your Work & Have It Displayed at the Products Expo on Sunday, August 25

We invite individuals, groups, and chapters (up to 3 people) to be a part of this unique experience. 

The Procurement Excellence Showcase will feature a summary of your work (research, case studies, programs, or initiatives) using posters. This is a fun way to visually translate and transform your accomplishments.

Each participant, or group, will be assigned a space to display their poster presentation to fellow conference attendee and engage in meaningful conversations.

Submit An Abstract
To participate in the Showcase, you must submit an abstract to apply. Hurry, space is limited. The first approved 40 applications will participate in our first-ever Procurement Excellence Showcase.

Vote On Your Favorite Topic
Attendees will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite showcase topics. We’ll celebrate the winners during the Tuesday morning Plenary session.

READ MORE

MY FORUM STORY

Erin D'Vincent, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Procurement Manager 
City of Austin FSD Central Procurement, TX

From Total Beginner to Multi-Panel Speaker

The first time I attended Forum, it was happening right in my backyard, Austin, Texas. It was 2019, and I was a procurement supervisor for the City of Austin. It was very exciting, made more so because so many people from my organization were able to attend.

I stepped into Forum without a good understanding of what it was. I assumed that everyone attending and speaking would be so highly knowledgeable and experienced that they would be unapproachable. 

To my pleasant shock, there were people from every generation, age group, and experience level at Forum. Everyone from the entry-level attendees to the vendors to the speakers and keynotes - all there to learn and to help others learn. It’s what sets Forum apart and what makes me want to keep attending every year.

When Forum went virtual in 2020, I took my shot at speaking. Everything went great, so I partnered with a colleague to present in person the following year. I ended up being part of four different presentations! It was amazing to have the confidence to go from being unsure about Forum itself to standing in front of a live audience four different times and presenting on a topic I felt knowledgeable about.

READ MORE

BUCKLE UP

Get Ready For A High Octane Social Event At The Charlotte Motor Speedway
Monday, August 26

For over 60 years, Charlotte Motor Speedway has set the standard for motor sports entertainment and evolved into "America's Home for Racing". NIGP takes over the Speedway for an action-packed evening of food, drinks, music, dancing, games, and the chance to experience the excitement of NASCAR racing. Choose your thrill:

Fun For All Without The Speed
Participate in activities like NASCAR and VR simulators, cornhole, and games.
Test your driving skills in the equipment rodeo featuring zero-turn mowers and trailer backing challenges.

Experience Pure Speed
Get behind the wheel of a real NASCAR race car and reach speeds up to 140 mph.
Ride shotgun with a professional driver in a NASCAR for a high-speed thrill exceeding 150 mph.
(Both options at an additional cost)

Go Kart Racing
Race colleagues on a new, world championship-spec 13-turn, 0.65-mile high-performance go karting track.

Assemble a team of four and compete in the Chapter Challenge (details and registration coming soon).

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Achieves New Industry Hallmark 

The NIGP-CPP certification program has not only become the most sought-after certification for leaders in public procurement, but it’s now only the second procurement and contracting certification (NIGP and NCMA) to ever achieve accreditation by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB), the most prestigious personnel certification accreditation program worldwide.  

By earning ANAB’s accreditation, the achievement validates that NIGP-CPP certification, attained by more than 1,400 procurement leaders throughout North America, meets those standards. We recognize that standards are critically important to the public procurement community which frequently incorporates ANSI and ISO standards in bid specifications and assessments.

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ASSOCIATION (RMGPA)
Summer Conference and Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 11-12 | Aurora, CO

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Summer Hybrid Conference
JUNE 12 | Dunwoody, GA

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 14 | Tampa, FL

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION
Annual Meeting - Virtual
JUNE 20 

READ MORE

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 17,000+ 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

Time Critical Shipment - guaranteed, urgent transport service that comes with different unique options, such as special handling and care.

From the 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

Act Fast Offer Ends In 3 Days...

NIGP Forum 2024 Early Registration Ends Friday, May 31

NIGP Forum is the premier public procurement event in North America. 

What You Can Expect: Forum Webinar Recording (May 22)
Hear firsthand from NIGP experts and featured speakers who lead you through a detailed overview of what you can look forward to experiencing at Forum 2024 - content sessions, networking opportunities, new badged learning paths, Procurement Excellence Showcase and so much more.

VIEW WEBINAR RECORDING

Register Early and Save. 

In-Person | Charlotte
$925 Members; $1,150 Non-Members

Virtual
$299 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY 

FORUM KEYNOTE

Riaz Meghji, Forum Keynote Speaker
Sunday, August 25
Topic: Every Conversation Counts: Building Extraordinary Relationships in a Changed World

Riaz Meghji is a respected thought leader, human connections expert and author of the book Every Conversation Counts: The 5 Habits that Build Extraordinary Relationships. He's also an accomplished broadcaster with 17 years of television hosting experience having interviewed experts on current affairs, sports, entertainment, politics and business. 

Riaz has committed his career to uncovering the key habits of human connection that build extraordinary relationships. His keynote is an engaging experience that is candid and offers a far-ranging look at how authentic conversations can help reinvent yourself, and reenergize your teams.

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Thanks These Entities For Their Dedication and Milestone Membership

Celebrating 30 Years
City of Lubbock, TX
City of Lompoc, CA
Town of Leesburg, VA
Teacher Retirement System of Texas
City of Watertown, NY
Cobb County School District, GA
Boone County Purchasing Department, MO
Regional Water Authority, CT
Lansing Board of Water and Light, MI
Jefferson County Purchasing, CO
County of Greenville, SC
Cobb County, GA
City of Frederick, MD
Northern Colorado Water Conservancy District, CO
City of Fort Pierce, FL
City of San Bernardino, CA
Virginia Museum of Natural History 

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Is A High-Level, Competency-Based Certification 

The NIGP-CPP’s objective is not to replicate other respected procurement certifications. Rather, our objective is to complement other certifications by offering a competency-based, high-level certification that is specifically for leaders in procurement.

The NIGP-CPP addresses content and competencies that may not be addressed in other certifications in the marketplace, but are required to achieve success in the workplace.

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

RMGPA
Summer Conference and Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 11-12 | Aurora, CO

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Summer Hybrid Conference
JUNE 12 | Dunwoody, GA

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 14 | Tampa, FL

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION
Annual Meeting - Virtual
JUNE 20 

READ MORE

NIGP BLOG
LEARNING BY DESIGN

Beat the Clock: 5 Essential Strategies for Learning When Time is Tight by Todd Slater

In today’s business environment, where the lifespan of professional skills is becoming increasingly shorter, continuous learning emerges as a cornerstone for career development.

However, as I talk with NIGP Members, a common hurdle consistently surfaces -- finding time for learning amidst the day-to-day demands. So, how do we address this challenge without adding to an already overwhelming workload.

The key is integrating learning effectively into our daily professional lives.

READ COMPLETE BLOG

WORD OF THE WEEK

Data Deliverable - factual information required by a contract that is organized for analysis (e.g., technical data, cost data, administrative report).

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

An essential resource for every public procurement professional. 

Order a copy today in digital or print format.

LEARN MORE

Showcase Your Accomplishments At Forum In A New Way...

Introducing The NIGP Procurement Excellence Showcase

Create a Poster Presentation of Your Work & Have It Displayed at the Products Expo on Sunday, August 25

The Procurement Excellence Showcase will feature a summary of your work (research, case studies, programs, or initiatives) using posters. This is a fun and exciting way to visually translate your accomplishments.

We invite individuals, groups, and chapters (up to 3 people) to be a part of this unique experience. Each participant, or group, will be assigned a space to display their poster presentation to fellow conference attendee and engage in meaningful conversations.

Submit An Abstract
To participate in the Showcase, you must submit an abstract to apply. Hurry, space is limited. The first approved 40 applications will participate as part of our first-ever Procurement Excellence Showcase.

Vote On Your Favorite Topic
Plus, attendees will have the opportunity to vote on their favorite showcase topics. We’ll celebrate the winners during the Tuesday morning Plenary session.

READ MORE

MY FORUM STORY

Carrie Mathes, NIGP-CPP, MPA, CPPO, CPPB, CFCM, C.P.M., A.P.P.
NIGP Governing Board Chair
Procurement Manager 
Orange County, FL

The first time I went to Forum, I knew instantly this was something special. It was 2006. Forum was taking place in Tampa, Florida, which was just 90 miles from Orange County, where I’ve always worked. Luck was on my side, because I ended up winning a free hotel to the next year’s Forum, taking place in Hartford, CT. That was the beginning of my long relationship with NIGP and Forum.

I’m incredibly grateful to say I haven’t missed a Forum since 2006, and I hope I never miss one. This event is valuable for so many reasons. To start with, the programming is top-notch and the networking opportunities can’t be beaten. There’s no other place where you can mingle and meet with procurement professionals at all levels from across North America.

As NIGP Governing Board Chair, I can attend many conferences. They all serve a purpose and have benefits, but none of them compare to the enrichment I find at Forum.

READ MORE

CELEBRATIONS

The NIGP Governing Board Recently Approved These Appointments to the Member Council:

Re-appointment of Katherine Tople, NIGP-CPP, CPPB, Chief Procurement Officer for the Illinois Secretary of State for the term of July 1, 2024 to
June 30, 2027

Appointment of Kara Daniel, NIGP-CPP, CPPB, Purchasing Manager I for the School District of Springfield R-12 Missouri for the term of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027

Appointment of Selena Leon, Senior Procurement Specialist for the Arizona Department of Health Services to fill an unexpired term effective July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2026

Appointment of Jainchong Luo, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB, Assistant Division Director for Henrico County, Virginia for the term of July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2027

The Member Council establishes the eligibility and conditions for membership and revocation as well as the eligibility and conditions for chartering, maintaining, reinstating, and terminating a NIGP chapter affiliate. The Council also establishes and maintains standards of professional conduct, including a Code of Ethics.

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Certification Is The Premier Certification

The NIGP-CPP certification is the premier certification for leaders in public procurement. From key procurement topics to leadership, strategy, business skills and operations, and everything in between, this certification tests the technical competencies, skills, and abilities needed to be a leader in procurement.

If you are established in procurement as a leader, the time to consider getting certified is now. In addition to validating the competencies, abilities, and skills you have, this certification validates your skills are portable and transferable. 

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ASSOCIATION (RMGPA)
Summer Conference and Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 11-12 | Aurora, CO

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Summer Hybrid Conference
JUNE 12 | Dunwoody, GA

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 14 | Tampa, FL

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION
Annual Meeting - Virtual
JUNE 20 

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCES

NIGP Pathways Concierge Program 

Customized, complementary professional education services to help guide your career journey.

Experienced procurement and education professionals talk to members about their career goals and help identify their best professional path forward, and mentor them along the way using the NIGP Pathways program. 

READ MORE

WORD OF THE WEEK

Hand-To-Mouth Buying - a purchase of the smallest quantity to satisfy a current need

From the 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

It's Countdown Time...Early Registration Ends May 31

Register Now for NIGP Forum 2024 and Save

Session Schedule
Check out the FORUM SESSION SCHEDULE along with session descriptions. There's also a PDF you can download to zero-in on the sessions most important to you. The content is based on current industry trends and what our members need most critically.

In Person | Virtual
All NIGP Forum content will be streamed. So, no matter how you choose to attend - in person in Charlotte or virtually - you'll have access to the same learning and can earn up to 24 contact hours.

We're anticipating a record-breaking event and an experience that is simply unforgettable. 

In-Person | Charlotte
$925 Members; $1,150 Non-Members

Virtual
$299 Members; $449 Non-Members

REGISTER TODAY

FORUM KEYNOTE

Erin Stafford, Forum Keynote Speaker
Tuesday, August 27
Topic: Escape the Type A Trap: Three Steps to Beat Burnout and Sustain Peak Performance

Erin brings over 20 years of experience harnessing her own Type A personality and research with high-achieving athletes, entrepreneurs, executives and leaders around the globe. She is an award-winning Keynote Speaker, best-selling author, Cambridge social psychologist and burnout expert

During her keynote, Erin will use lessons gleaned from her international career as well as interviews and surveys with thousands of high achievers from all walks of life, which will inspire mindset shifts for leaders to move from exhaustion and burnout to kicking butt and thriving again.

Don't miss her session!

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Is Thrilled To Announce These Promotions Within The Organization 

Marlena Bludzien - promoted to NIGP's Meetings Administrator leaving her vacancy as Events and Programs Specialist to be filled.

Kaitlyn Mankin - promoted to the Events and Programs Specialist position previously held by Marlena). This is Kaitlyn's second promotion since she joined NIGP in September 2021.

Mervellie Basue - promoted to the Program Support Specialist (previously held by Kaitlyn). Merveille joined the NIGP team in early 2024 as a Customer Care Coordinator.

Katie McLachlan - promoted to Accounting Specialist transitioning from Customer Care on July 1st. Katie joined the NIGP team in Fall of 2023 as a Customer Care Coordinator.

NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: Fraudulent Certificates of Insurance by Kirk Buffington 

Public sector procurement risk management begins with a review of potential risks in a solicitation and how to mitigate them. Most importantly, risk management should be accomplished holistically, engaging everyone in the organization.

The first line of risk identification begins with documents and certificates received from a bidder, such as the Certificate of Insurance (COI). This certificate, also known as Accord 25, recognizes the Accord Certificate as the most often used by insurance companies. 

It's unfortunate, but fraudulent COIs are a reality, and many of us may not have an agency Risk Manager who would review and approve the submitted COI. Given the ease of use of Photoshop and Artificial Intelligence (AI), fraudulent certificates are on the rise.

READ COMPLETE BLOG 

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

CAPITAL AREA PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
Spring Buyer Symposium
MAY 17 | Henrico, VA

ROCKY MOUNTAIN GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING ASSOCIATION (RMGPA)
Summer Conference and Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 11-12 | Aurora, CO

GEORGIA CHAPTER
Summer Hybrid Conference
JUNE 12 | Dunwoody, GA

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Show
JUNE 14 | Tampa, FL

ONTARIO PUBLIC BUYERS ASSOCIATION
Annual Meeting - Virtual
JUNE 20 

READ MORE

FREE WEBINAR

Stop Disqualifying Before the Race Begins: Tips for Enhancing Your Supplier Experience and Boosting Diversity brought to you by OpenGov

MAY 21 | 1PM - 2PM (ET) 

Local government procurement teams face the dual challenge of ensuring a seamless supplier experience while actively promoting diversity within the procurement processes.

Join us as we share innovative strategies and best practices that can significantly enhance the supplier experience, streamline operations, improve supplier engagement, and ultimately, drive better outcomes for your community.

REGISTER TODAY

RADIO NIGP

Theme: How to Avoid the "Spend or Lose" Year End Work Rush AKA "Use It or Lose It" Spending   

This theme is a two-month (Part 1 May, Part 2 June) broadcast. 

Hot Topics - The Team discusses the problem of spend or lose thinking.  When is it legitimate? When is it just bad planning?  How can we be the GPS and not the roadblock?  

Tech Talk/Construction Junction - Learn how procurement, by getting involved early, can aid in getting the project done during any time limit restrictions. 

And so much more...

VIEW RADIO NIGP

STATE OF PUBLIC SOURCING SURVEY

Help Shape The Future of Public Procurement

Please share your insights on the state of public procurement - a few moments of your time will help inform industry trends for 2024.

We're conducting our annual State of Public Sourcing survey and want your perspective. Your input fuels our report, keeping you and your peers informed on trends and best practices.

Participate now for a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card and exclusive early access to the 2024 report. It's quick anonymous, (if you wish), and impactful.

The Premier Public Procurement Event of The Year

What You Can Expect...Attend Our FREE NIGP Forum 2024 Webinar 

May 22 | 2-3PM (ET)

Get a glimpse into the innovations and opportunities that await you at Forum. Hear firsthand from NIGP experts and featured speakers who will lead you through a detailed overview of what to expect. We'll take a deeper dive into content sessions, networking opportunities, new badged learning paths and so much more.  

If you have any questions about Forum or the sessions, this is a great place to get answers immediately. You can also get a headstart on connecting with colleagues. 

Buckle-up as we drive procurement.

REGISTER TODAY

MY FORUM STORY

Michelle Palmer, NIGP-CPP, DASM, CSCMP, CPPB, PMP
Senior Manager, Strategic Initiatives and Operational Effectiveness
City of Owen Sound, ON

"If you are on the fence about attending Forum, just go! Whether you go in person or virtually, you will get a lot out of it and make some friends along the way."

I first attended Forum around 2010, a few years after transitioning from private to public procurement. I was a member of my local Ontario NIGP chapter, and my boss at the time encouraged me to attend Forum to get more involved with NIGP and meet people from across the US and Canada.

First Impressions

I was in awe the first time I went. It was such a great event that radiated positive energy. I knew immediately that I wanted to be a part of this. There were a lot of people, and they were all so friendly and ready to help with anything you needed. Of course, I also enjoyed the educational aspect. Continuous learning is one of my personal values, and it was nice to pick and choose to attend the sessions that were most relevant to me. As I grow in my career, I find that I participate in different types of sessions, so I’m never hearing the same thing twice.

The social aspect of Forum is one of the best parts of it. I love staying connected with the friends I have made there through social media and attending other NIGP events. It’s really nice to walk into Forum every year feeling a sense of familiarity and belonging. And, of course, it’s always great to meet new people!

Virtual vs. In-Person

When I first started attending Forum, there was only an in-person option. Now, there are options to attend in person or virtually. I took the virtual approach last year, in 2023. As far as educational opportunities go, it was incredible. I loved learning from great minds in procurement and attending the sessions as if I were physically there. I learned a lot and had many excellent takeaways that I was able to bring to my organization.

Of course, the social aspect of Forum is one of the highlights. So, I did miss not being able to see my friends or meet new people in the same way. If you are the type of person who loves to socialize, you may prefer the in-person experience over the virtual format. However, if you are unable to attend for any reason, then it’s well worth the virtual ticket to get access to exceptional educational content. It’s an excellent value for the education sessions, and you get access to all the sessions for 30 days afterward, so you can rewatch them or see the sessions you could not attend.

This year, I plan on attending Forum in person. However, if there were a reason I was unable to attend in person, I would definitely take the virtual option instead of missing out altogether. I will be attending Forum as a chapter ambassador for the first time, and I can’t wait to meet people from other chapters to find out what they are doing and how I can help them with their challenges.

Advice for First-Timers

Going to the Forum for the first time can be intimidating, but don’t worry—everyone is here to meet new people and talk about all things procurement! Here are a few ways to get the most out of the event.

1. Don’t sit with the same people: I might start by sitting with people I know, but as I move to a new panel or networking event, I sit with a new group. This is an excellent way to branch out and get to know people from outside your circle.
    
2. Attend all the plenary sessions: Ideally, attend every session, but sometimes you need to take a break or get caught up in a good conversation with someone and miss a session. Whatever you do, make sure to attend all the plenary sessions at least, as these are incredibly valuable. They can also be a lot of fun!
    
3. Find me: If you don’t know anybody, find me and say hello! I can show you around and introduce you to some great NIGP members. As a chapter ambassador, I’ll be attending the first-timers event, which is a great opportunity for you to get to know other people who are new to Forum.

Whether you attend Forum virtually or in person, make the most of every session and every opportunity to meet and network with other procurement professionals. See you there!

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Thanks These Entities For Their Dedication and Milestone Membership

Celebrating 35 Years
Texas Tech University
Georgia Department of Administrative Services
County of Galveston, TX
Darlington County, SC
Fayette County, GA
City of Middletown, CT
Kentucky State Fair Board
City of Palmdale, CA
Henry County Board of Commissioners, GA
City of San Marcos, TX
Wicomico County Board of Education, MD
City of Wheat Ridge, CO
Hillsborough County Public Schools, FL
State of Utah, Division of Purchasing 
Little Rock School District, AR
Loudoun County Public Schools, VA
Savannah Chatham County Public Schools, GA
City of Loveland, CO
Loudoun Water, VA
County of Sussex, NJ
Berkeley County Government, SC
University of Central Missouri
Wichita Public Schools, KS

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

OPBA Designated As An Authorized Education Provider for NIGP-CPP Certificants Earning Continuing Education Hours

The NIGP Certification Commission is pleased to announce that the Ontario Public Buyers Association (OPBA) has earned the Commission’s Authorized Education Provider designation for a three-year period effective May 1, 2024.

The designation indicates that OPBA's educational conferences meet the standards defined by the Commission for granting Continuing Education Hours required for NIGP-CPP recertification.

To date five organizations have successfully demonstrated that the rigorous standards established by the Commission have been met through the organization’s portfolio of procurement education activities - NIGP, CAPPO, FAPPO, NPI and OPBA.

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

CENTRAL GULF COAST
Reverse Trade Show
MAY 9 | Pensacola, FL

GOVERNMENTAL PROCUREMENT ASSOCIATION OF GEORGIA
Spring Conference
MAY 10 | Lagrange, GA

PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION OF CONNECTICUT CHAPTER OF NIGP
Annual Meeting & Trade Show
MAY 15 | West Hartford, CT

DELAWARE PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
DPPA and APEX Matchmaking Event
MAY 16 | Wilmington, DE

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

Fair Market Value  - the price for an item upon which the buyer and seller agree in an open market when both are fully acquainted with market conditions.

From the 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

RESEARCH SURVEY: USE OF PORTFOLIO MODELS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT

We’d like your insights to gain a deeper understanding of the current use, potential challenges, and desired modifications or innovations in procurement portfolio models within the public sector context.

Your input will help paint a comprehensive picture of the current landscape and future possibilities for procurement portfolio management in the public sector, guiding efforts to develop more effective and customized tools and strategies.

The survey will take between 10 and 15 minutes to complete; the background and objective of the study is provided. A report with the detailed results of the study will be distributed following the data collection.

Survey deadline is May 17.

COMPLETE RESEARCH SURVEY

It's Only One Week Away...

Hurry, There's Still Time To Register for NIGP VCON 2024

May 8 - 9 | 12:30 - 5PM (ET) | 19.5 Contact Hours

This one-of-a-kind virtual conference is designed with the needs of our members in mind. VCON offers two distinct track options for new and aspiring procurement leaders. Here's what you can expect: 

New to Procurement Track (8 sessions): Offering procurement-based training and refresher content for both new and veteran public procurement professionals. These sessions are an introduction to key topics crucial for a new practitioner's understanding of public procurement. 

New to Management Track (4 sessions): Introducing skills necessary for a management role, catering to those aspiring to become managers, new managers, and veteran managers.

$149 Members
$249 Non-Members

Join your peers.

REGISTER TODAY

NIGP SPOTLIGHT

Sean Carroll, NIGP-CPP, CPPO
Founder, A Posteriori LLC

A Posteriori has been advocating for the government procurement function for over two decades, assessing current environments and supporting the plan for the future. 

Sean Carroll served as the chief procurement officer for the state of New York from 2016-2023, and various counties, cities and school districts across NYS state since 2005. He has served under 4 governors, and managed more than 3000 contracts with annual spend exceeding $50 Billion for state agencies, state campuses and local governments. He has served as an NIGP Chapter Ambassador, on the NIGP Governing Board and as Chair of the NIGP CPP Certification Commission.

NIGP VCON 2024 Presenter
Sean will be leading these informative sessions on the New to Management Track: 
May 8 - What To Expect When You're Expecting (To Become A Manager)
May 9 - Bad Manager, Recognizing and Managing Bad Habits In Yourself, Your Reports, and Your Leaders

VCON SCHEDULE

NIGP BLOG

NEW Technology Corner
Revolutionizing Public Procurement: The Role of AI and NIGP Leadership by Brooke Smith

Public procurement serves as the backbone of governmental operations worldwide, facilitating the acquisition of essential goods, services, and works crucial for public service delivery.

Yet, traditional procurement processes often grapple with inefficiencies and susceptibility to corruption. Enter artificial intelligence (AI), a transformative force poised to revolutionize public procurement practices by fostering transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

NIGP, with its 17,000+ members, stands at the forefront of ensuring procurement professionals remain abreast of AI advancements and their implications.

Through dedicated tracks and discussions at its annual Forum events, like the technology pathways track in Louisville, KY, and the upcoming focus on AI, cybersecurity, and large IT procurement during Forum in Charlotte, NC, NIGP ensures members have access to the latest insights in this rapidly evolving field.

READ COMPLETE BLOG

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Is The Only Certification Managed And Administered by NIGP

NIGP-CPP certification is the fastest growing globally recognized and competency-based public procurement certification available.

The NIGP-CPP recognizes and assesses how you, as an experienced procurement leader, deliver success to your organizations and supports your professional credibility and aspirations now and in the future.

Whether this is your first professional certification in procurement, or you’re ready to advance your career beyond the limits of other certifications, you will recognize distinct differences in the NIGP-CPP program that sets it apart.

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Annual Golf Tournament
MAY 3 |  Tampa, FL

CENTRAL FLORIDA CHAPTER
Family Day 2024
MAY 4 |  Orlando, FL

IOWA PUBLIC PROCUREMENT ASSOCIATION
Spring 2024 IPPA Conference
MAY 8 | Iowa City, IA

NEW YORK STATE ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPAL PURCHASING OFFICIALS
Annual Conference
MAY 8-10 | Lake George, NY

READ MORE

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 17,000+ 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

Uninsurable Risk  - a situation for which insurance companies will not provide coverage because such situation would violate the law or pose an unacceptable or unknowable risk of loss.

From the 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

Important Deadline for NIGP Member Awards
Individual and Agency Award Applications are Due Monday, April 29

Individual Award Nominees

PMOY & PSOY Awards

If you were nominated for the Procurement Manager of the Year (PMOY) award or the Procurement Specialist of the Year (PSOY) award, you've been notified and asked to complete an application as part of the award consideration process. Applications are due April 29.

AHH, DSA & ADMS Awards

If you were nominated for the Albert H. Hall Award (AHH),  Distinguished Service Award (DSA), or Anne Deatherage Meritorious Service Award (ADMS), you've been notified and asked to provide a bio to complete the award consideration process. Bios are due April 29.

Agency Advancement Award

This award recognizes agencies who have excelled at implementing a procurement-related program or process improvement within their organization. Programs or process improvements must have been implemented within the last two years of the application deadline. Applications are due April 29.

APPLY TODAY

NIGP SPOTLIGHT

Meet Todd Slater, Ph.D.
NIGP Chief Content Officer & Devoted Educator

Todd’s career journey reflects a deep commitment to learning and personal growth. Starting with a degree in video production from Michigan State University, Todd initially envisioned a life capturing the natural wonders of the world for National Geographic. When that path proved elusive, he found his niche in education, beginning at the University of South Florida. There, he set up innovative television studios that broadcast engineering courses to defense contractors across Florida, using cutting-edge microwave technology.

With a passion for enhancing educational experiences, Todd pursued a Master's in Instructional Design from the University of Central Florida, a commitment that saw him commuting from Tampa twice a week. His career further evolved with roles at Anderson Consulting and then a significant stint in the financial industry. It was during this period that Todd achieved his PhD in Adult Education from Capella University, deepening his expertise and impact in the field.

Life took a beautiful turn when Todd adopted his two daughters (Emily and Megan) from China, inspiring a shift towards more globally impactful work. This led him to The Nature Conservancy in Washington, DC, where he spent twelve years developing global learning programs in five United Nations languages, bringing education to diverse communities across the world.

Now, as the Chief Content Officer at NIGP, Todd is deeply committed to engaging with members and helping shape their professional paths. The opportunity to connect with members and collaborate with his NIGP team are the highlights of his day. As his children continue on their college journeys, Todd is shifting his focus back to global concerns, seeking ways to support the underserved in their educational pursuits. Alongside his wife Katy, he is eager to explore more of the world, blending his passion for education with his love of travel. This new chapter not only promises new adventures but also a chance to make a meaningful impact on a global scale.

NEW NIGP BLOG

Learning By Design
The Art of Upskilling: Elevating Workforces, Shaping Bright Futures by Todd Slater

Todd's column Learning by Design focuses on your professional growth and development and how to best navigate your career path. The month's blog addresses the importance of upskilling. Here's an exerpt: 

In today's dynamic landscape upskilling — the strategic enhancement of one's skillset — is not just beneficial; it's essential. For those in the realm of procurement, tasked with safeguarding public resources and ensuring value, this is particularly pertinent. Upskilling goes beyond mere career advancement; it's about elevating the caliber of public service.

Investing in personal and professional growth ensures that procurement practices not only meet current standards but are poised to anticipate and adapt to future demands.

READ THE COMPLETE BLOG

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Is a Competency- Based Certification

The NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered through NIGP. The NIGP-CPP is the premier procurement certification for leaders in the profession.

The first NIGP-CPP exams were offered in 2020, at the height of the pandemic. In less than three full years of testing, a total of 1,358 NIGP-CPPs have been awarded - a great accomplishment for the NIGP-CPP certification.

Eligibility for the NIGP-CPP is based on formal college/university education and fulltime procurement employment experiences at the mid to executive level. There are no informal training courses required for the NIGP-CPP.

READ MORE

UPCOMING CHAPTER EVENTS

WORD OF THE WEEK

Hard Currency - a sound, widely accepted currency that is unlikely to fluctuate greatly or depreciate suddenly.

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

Are You Attending THE Procurement Event of the Year?
NIGP Forum 2024 | August 25-28

Attend in-person or virtually...No matter which way you choose to attend, you'll have access to the same learning and can earn up to 24 contact hours.

Great news...we've just added the FORUM SESSION SCHEDULE along with session descriptions.  There's also a pdf you can download to zero-in on what sessions speak to you and the impact it will have on your work. The content is all based on industry trends and what our members need most critically. Chances are high that many, if not all the sessions, will have a real-world impact on your specific job or address a challenge you may be going through at your entity. 

In-Person | Charlotte
$925 Members; $1,150 Non-Members

Virtual
$299 Members; $449 Non-Members

Early Registration ends May 31.

REGISTER TODAY 

MY FORUM STORY

Valerie Scott, NIGP-CPP, CPPB
Purchasing & Contracts Manager 
City of Longmont, CO

I went to my first Forum in 2014, just after receiving my CPPB certification. The first thing I noticed was that the energy was electric. There were so many people doing so many things. I am a classic introvert, so I was a little overwhelmed at first. 
 
Fortunately, my manager had sent me and a colleague together, so I wasn’t alone. It was great having someone I knew with me who was familiar with the event and many of the people. She introduced me to a lot of the NIGP community, who immediately welcomed me with open arms.

After 10 years of attending Forum, I feel comfortable walking into the room because I recognize so many faces, many from that very first event! Becoming friends with other procurement professionals helped me come out of my shell and put myself out there as a speaker. 

READ COMPLETE BLOG

RADIO NIGP

April Show Theme: When Contracts Go Bad 

This month we discuss contract mismanagement and how to mitigate a bad situation into a win-win outcome. We share real-world experiences and provide valuable insights to help you successfully manage contracts. 

Highlights include: 

Way to Grow: What Do You Tell Your Mentee When Their Contract Goes Bad? NIGP Governing Board Chair Carrie Mathes provides advice on who to contact when a contract goes bad and how to avoid the problem in the first place.

Chapter Updates: Delve into the challenges surrounding Conference Contracts with Art Moore, IAPPO Chapter President. 

Deeper Dive: Share lessons learned from our bad contract experiences - what went wrong, the outcome, and what could have been done differently.

VIEW RADIO NIGP

NIGP-CPP

NIGP-CPP Is The Premier Procurement Certification For Procurement Leaders

This competency-based certification assesses the technical competencies, skills, and abilities required on the job today, and it is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP. 

The NIGP-CPP certification is a valuable investment in your career and in yourself.

Here’s how the NIGP-CPP can help you move forward on your professional career journey:

• Emphasizes Technical Competencies vs Knowledge. 
• Provides Flexibility and Choice. 
• Focuses on the full scope of all the capabilities needed to be successful 
• Sets a new industry standard
• Built on solid research

READ MORE

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

ARKANSAS CHAPTER
Conference and Vendor Expo
APRIL 24-26 | Fayetteville, AR

UTAH CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Fair
APRIL 25 | Salt Lake City, UT

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS ASSOCIATION (MPPOA)
Reverse Trade Fair
APRIL 26 | Novi, MI

TAMPA BAY AREA CHAPTER OF NIGP
Annual Golf Tournament
MAY 3 |  Tampa, FL

CENTRAL FLORIDA CHAPTER
Family Day 2024
MAY 4 |  Orlando, FL

READ MORE

FREE MEMBER RESOURCE

The NIGP Blog - A great way to connect and communicate. Check out the content we currently have posted which includes columns such as - Learning by Design, Legally Speaking and Forum Stories. Let us know what you think.

Your feedback is invaluable to help us shape the future of public procurement.

Whether you have questions or comments, or suggestions on future topics, we want to hear from you. Please email blog@nigp.org.

WORD OF THE WEEK

Fast Track Construction -  a project delivery strategy in which construction starts before the design is completed.

From the 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.

PUBLIC PROCUREMENT BENCHMARK SURVEY

Deadline Extended to April 19

We Want Your Feedback!

NIGP, in partnership with NIGP Consulting and the University of Connecticut, is launching our Public Procurement Benchmark Survey. We urge all public procurement entities to complete this survey which includes 2 parts. This is your chance to make your voice count as we develop benchmark standards for public procurement across all sectors of government.

Be on the lookout for a direct email asking you for your input. Share the opportunity with your peers and encourage them to complete the survey as well.

New To Procurement Or New To Management

NIGP VCON 2024 Is Designed For You

May 8 - 9 | 12:30 - 5PM (ET) | 19.5 Contact Hours

Our expertly curated two half-day virtual conference is a one-of-a-kind annual event designed with the needs of our members in mind.

Get ready to learn the fundamentals of procurement or the skills needed to move into a management role. Discover how to navigate challenges, make well-informed career decisions, and unlock your innate potential within the public procurement profession.

$149 Members
$249 Non-Members

Join your peers.

REGISTER TODAY

NIGP SPOTLIGHT

Ryan Swink 
NIGP Business Development Manager

My professional career with NIGP began over two decades ago. In 2002, I started working as an intern in the meetings department during my senior year of high school after just turning 18. I was excited to contribute to the success of our annual forum and expo, laying the groundwork for what would become a fulfilling career.

Transitioning to the customer service side further honed my skills and deepened my connection to the organization. Over time, I was honored to be promoted to the role of Business Development Manager, where I continue to thrive today and recently, (March 23rd), celebrated my 40th birthday. 

Beyond the professional realm, NIGP has become my second family, fostering an environment of support and dedication that transcends the ordinary workplace. The unwavering commitment that NIGP demonstrates towards its employees mirrors the dedication it shows to its members, underscoring the organization's profound impact on both personal and professional levels.

CELEBRATIONS

The County of York, VA for Procurement Month
"Cookin' Up Savings"

Throughout the month of March, ‘Cookie Crumb’ emails were sent to the departments with ‘small bites’ of information about how to purchase goods and services.

At the end of the month, the Purchasing Team had an educational and fun cookie bake-off with studio audience participation!

The event attendees were challenged to figure out which method of procurement was used by the ‘bakers’ to make certain purchases for their cookies.

Everyone was a winner with enhanced Procurement knowledge….and cookies.

Celebrating the Power of YOU...Thanks to everyone who submitted their Procurement Month proclamations, photos and activities and for making March 2024 an incredible Procurement Month!

READ MORE

The County of York, VA Purchasing Team
Cookin' Up Savings for Procurement Month

(left to right): Evan Young, Buyer I; Victor Robinson, Buyer I; Stephanie Cowden, Administrative Assistant II; Jan Dudley, Purchaing Agent; Mimi Gartner, Senior Buyer; and Greg Smith, Management Consultant

NIGP-CPP

Future-Focused and Elevating the Profession

The NIGP-CPP is the premier certification for procurement leaders. The NIGP-CPP certification is a competency-based certification that assesses the technical competencies, skills, abilities and behaviors required of a procurement leader on the job in today's world.

A total of 1,358 NIGP-CPP certifications have been awarded to procurement leaders throughout North America since the leadership-based certification program was launched in 2020. 

FREE NIGP-CPP Webinar
Find out how the NIGP-CPP can help advance your procurement career by joining us for this upcoming Webinar, hosted by NIGP CEO, Rick Grimm, NIGP-CPP and NIGP Director of Certification, Diane Daly.

Webinar: NIGP Certified Procurement Professional - Connecting Certification To Your Learning Aspirations

APRIL 23 | 2PM - 3:30PM

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

TENNESSEE ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING
TAPP Professional Development Conference
APRIL 17-19 | Franklin, TN

GULF COAST ASSOCIATION GOVERNMENTAL PURCHASING OFFICERS
12th Annual Reverse Trade Show and Conference
APRIL 18 | Punta Gorda, FL

ARKANSAS CHAPTER
Conference and Vendor Expo
APRIL 24-26 | Fayetteville, AR

UTAH CHAPTER OF NIGP
Reverse Trade Fair
APRIL 25 | Salt Lake City, UT

MICHIGAN PUBLIC PURCHASING OFFICERS ASSOCIATION (MPPOA)
Reverse Trade Fair
APRIL 26 | Novi, MI

READ MORE

NEW NIGP BLOG

Legally Speaking: Understanding Risk in Public Procurement by Kirk Buffington

Government procurement is a complex process that involves managing various risks associated with acquiring goods and services, including construction projects.

Given the significant financial investments involved and the public interest at stake, effective risk management is paramount. Public sector entities employ a range of strategies, including contract clauses, liquidated damages, and payment and performance bonds, to mitigate risks throughout the procurement and contracting process.

NIGP BLOG 

WORD OF THE WEEK

Time Value of Money - the concept that an amount of money is worth more now than the identical sum would be worth in the future, based on the financial principle that money can earn interest.

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

NIGP FORUM 2024

VISIONING THE FUTURE OF PROCUREMENT TOGETHER 

In Person | Virtual
August 25 - August 28 

Earn Up To 24 Contact Hours

NIGP Forum provides innovative educational content and practical advice from subject matter experts so you stay on top of the latest trends and best practices within the industry.  Unexpected connections, inspiring keynotes, and collaborative opportunities are just a few things to look forward to at NIGP FORUM 2024.

Earn up to 24 contact hours whether you join us in person or virtually. All session are recorded and available on-demand, so you can catch up on missed content or revisit key takeaways at your convenience. 

NIGP Forum is where public procurement professionals from across North America come together to support and learn from one another - share challenges, success stories and make connections on a personal and professional level that can last a lifetime. What makes NIGP Forum unique is this personal connection - this sense of belonging. Members develop bonds with one another and attend this once-a-year experience year after year.

This sense of camaraderie and connecting is the inspiration behind the NIGP Blog, Forum Stories. Members share their heartfelt experiences and what attending NIGP Forum meant to them and how it impacted their lives on a professional and personal level. Do you have a Forum story to share? Email blog@nigp.org. 

MY FORUM STORY

Russ Pankey, NIGP-CPP, CPPO, CPPB
Retired

NIGP Forum is all about the people. I look forward to reconnecting with my NIGP Family every year at Forum.

If you’ve been to NIGP Forum, there’s a good chance we’ve met. I have been attending Forum since 2006 when it was held in Tampa. This year will mark my 16th Forum, and I am as excited as ever to reconnect with my NIGP family while meeting new attendees. 

Forum has helped me navigate every stage of my procurement career. Forum is an exceptional opportunity to learn from the best procurement minds in North America. When I was a practitioner, I made sure to attend the plenary sessions and relevant panels throughout the day. 

Forum is particularly special to me because of what it means for my family.

READ COMPLETE STORY

CELEBRATIONS

NIGP Agency Advancement Award
Now Accepting Applications

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

Agencies are always seeking new ways to perform their function more efficiently to serve their departments and the public better. Recognizing and rewarding such advancements not only acknowledges the efforts of individuals and teams but also promotes best practices that can lead to enhanced productivity, cost savings and overall organizational success.

"I encourage all agencies big and small to apply for this award to demonstrate the contributions, dedication, and achievements of their procurement organization." - Lori Bryant, NIGP Member Council 

Deadline to apply is April 29. 

READ MORE

NIGP-CPP

NEW NIGP-CPP Certification Handbook, 5th Edition

NIGP-CPP is the only certification managed and administered by NIGP. 

The NIGP-CPP Certification Handbook, 5th Edition revised in February 2024 contains updated processes, policies and procedures.

This is your essential and principal source of information for the NIGP-CPP program. From eligibility requirements to testing policies, the handbook includes everything you need to evaluate the program and complete the certification and recertification requirements.

VIEW THE HANDBOOK 

CHAPTER NEWS

Upcoming Chapter Events

SOUTHEAST TEXAS ASSOCIATION OF PUBLIC PURCHASING
Lone Star Conference
APRIL 7-10 | Houston, TX