Future Focus Ltd of Floriana is launching a specialised diploma programme for professionals; 15 training sessions, which will be held once weekly, generally in the evenings. Assignments form part of each course, which also finishes off with a final examination.

The diploma in purchasing and resource management is designed to produce trained professionals in the essential function of purchasing and resourcing.

Whether an enterprise is involved in manufacturing, distribution or service providing, the function of purchasing - or 'buying' - on its behalf is a job for professionals.

Proficient purchasing can greatly increase the efficiency, competitiveness and profitability of the business; but unwise buying can seriously damage its operations, reputation and profit levels.

This practical programme covers the responsibilities and duties of professional buyers, purchasing and resourcing officers and managers employed in industry and commerce.

Major topics covered in this diploma course include:

¤ Purchasing objectives and strategies: formulation, implementation, evaluation and control; strategic options;

¤ Purchasing organisation: centralisation and decentralisation; purchasing within the management hierarchy, co-ordination;

¤ Purchasing procedures, documentation and records. Information technology: effects on purchasing and suppliers, human recourses in the supply chain: recruitment, training and development styles and leadership;

¤ Sourcing; matching supply and demand. Specifying and assuring quality of supplies. Support tools: tendering, forecasting, costing. Purchasing research, performance and ethics.

The course starts at the end of January (and every Tuesday thereafter) and the 15 sessions will be held from 5.15 p.m. to 7.15 p.m.