CIPS Membership

There are currently over 35,000 members of CIPS worldwide. Members join from many different walks of life.

The Institute's members, of whom there are over 35,000 worldwide, include leading business people, professional managers, academics and those working in the purchasing and supply profession.

The Institute has a membership structure which caters for different educational and professional needs, both of those working directly in purchasing and supply chain management and its associated disciplines, and of those with an interest in the area. The five grades of membership provide a clear structure that allows entry at an appropriate level, accurately reflecting the academic standards, vocational skill, experience and contribution to the profession achieved by the individual.

Individuals applying to join the Institute will be assessed on the basis of their current qualifications and experience. The outcome of the assessment will determine the most suitable route to corporate membership and identify the appropriate grade at which they join the Institute.

CIPS membership grades

Fellow (FCIPS) – Corporate, or Full Membership is awarded to existing Members who have a record of outstanding achievement and competence in the field of purchasing and supply chain management.

Member (MCIPS) – applicants normally achieve this grade after completing the CIPS Graduate Diploma. Alternative routes do however include the successful completion of an accredited degree, N/SVQ level 4 in Procurement or an approved CIPS Personal Development Programme. The PDP route is an assessment of a applicant’s experience, knowledge and responsibility in purchasing but does not result in the award of the CIPS Graduate Diploma.

Associate Member – this level of membership is achieved through a variety of routes. For example Members working towards the Graduate Diploma who have completed or have been awarded exemptions from the Foundation Stage may be awarded Associate Membership.

Student – Student membership is for those who are undertaking a study or competence based programme leading towards completion of the CIPS Graduate Diploma or its equivalent. Students have full access to CIPS benefits during their course of study.

Affiliates – this grade of membership is for those who have a strong interest in purchasing and supply, but who do not wish to become professionally qualified. There are no entry qualifications but membership allows them to keep up to date with professional developments and to take advantage of the products and services offered by CIPS.

Member Benefits 

All CIPS members enjoy a number of benefits which are provided under the following headings:

Support in your job - products which will help you in the day-to-day activities at work, including:

Main Benefits

• information and guidance service about generic purchasing and supply techniques and issues

• discounts on a wide range of training courses, seminars and conferences, including the Annual Conference

• regularly updated publications on best practice

• a series of handbooks to guide you through the process of buying in specific areas, eg travel, insurance services

Support in your career - career management advice and job opportunities

Main Benefits

Augmented personal benefits - a range of business and leisure services available at specially discounted rates for all CIPS members:

Best Western Hotels 10% discount on standard room rates. Call 08457 737373 quoting XX800 for CIPS.

Britannia Rescue 10% discount on all levels of cover. Call free on 0800 591 563 quoting your CIPS membership number.

BUPA up to 10% off the cost of BUPACare. Call free on 0800 600 500 quoting ref. 9417. Lines open 8am-10pm, every day.

Chiumento Consulting Group £45 for first meeting (free if unemployed). Call 01865 882100 quoting your CIPS membership number or click ---here--- [New window]

MBNA Credit Card introductory 9.9% APR for six months, no annual fee. Call free on 0800 776 262 quoting ref BU01.

Royal Over-Seas League 50% discount on entrance fee, reduced annual subscription. Call 0171 408 0214 quoting your CIPS membership number.

Representing your interests - using the breadth of membership of the Institute to: