NewsLine
January 2014, Vol. 26, No. 1
for the volunteer leadership
Letter From the ISM Professional Credentials Committee Chair
In my last letter from the chair, you read about the continuing shortage of qualified workers in our workforce, and our need to just get the work done. That issue leads us to seek out individuals who can work more independently. In today's market, with its focus on talent recruitment and retention a diploma, a four-year degree or an MBA implies a level of capability, and therefore create an expectation of a certain level of performance — and ISM certifications raise the bar of expectation higher.
I have read many articles in the media that agree. In particular, I read one in Forbes magazine that noted, "Talented employees are in limited supply, and very much in demand ..." and, "Recruiting these employees can be quite costly ..." and, "Talent is hard to find ... shouldn't employers do everything they can to retain it and provide the right conditions for career development?"
Personally, I have been very fortunate. I have worked for companies that promote ISM certification and career development within the organization, and recognize that career development and career growth attract talented employees.
We have probably heard this next statement before but it is very powerful to hear again:
"What if we invest all this effort, time and money to educate them and then they leave the company?"
The correct answer is:
"What if you do not educate them and they stay?"
Be that exceptional performer. Better yet, create a team at your company of exceptional performers, and the results can be astounding.
Set your standards high and achieve your goals. ISM and your local ISM affiliate's professional development educational committee are here to help you succeed in doing so.
David Van Valkenburgh, CPSM, C.P.M., CFPIM, CSCP, CFCM
Chair, ISM Professional Credentials Committee
Letter From the Vice President of Professional Credentials
Welcome to the annual update on certification. Instead of writing a typical message, let me ask you a few questions:
- Do you have the scope of knowledge needed to be as successful as you can be?
- Have you been in the profession a while and could use a refresher on what makes our profession great today?
- Are you interested in learning new concepts that will bring value to your company and make it more successful?
All professionals today, regardless of field, have a responsibility to continue to learn. ISM makes learning easy and effective through its CPSM® and CPSD® programs. And, we can show you the likely positive impact over time on your lifelong earnings.
A few more things:
- Whatever you learn is yours to keep.
- Earn the CPSM® or CPSD®, and keep it current. You know the major impact supply chain management has on your organization. Should you move to another department, you can leverage your credential and lead a team to work with procurement.
- You'll make more sound business decisions when you take supply management's impact into account.
Thanks to each of you teaching a review course, volunteering for a committee or studying to earn a credential. It is the synergy among all of these efforts that has put our field at the forefront of business today.
Finally, on a personal note, I have been privileged to have one of the best jobs ever. Every day I help people learn so they can be better at what they do. Thank you all.
Scott R. Sturzl, CPSM, CPSD
ISM Vice President - Certification, Diversity and Corporate Social Responsibility
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