A new training network called the ‘Procurement and Supply Management Skillnet’ (PSM Skillnet) was launched in January this year and its training programmes are now underway. The training network is an initiative of Skillnets and is funded by the National Training Fund through the Department of Enterprise.

Skillnets, the state-sponsored body dedicated to the promotion and facilitation of enterprise-led training initiatives, has approved funding to the PSM Skillnet. Since 1999, Skillnets has funded over 150 training networks and helped more than 10,000 companies meet their training needs. The success of these initiatives has helped PSM Skillnet secure a further €55million from the National Training Fund.

The PSM training programmes will focus primarily on skills and competencies necessary in all key sectors, at all levels, from new entrants to experienced professionals. A key feature of the PSM Skillnet is the regional spread of programmes which means that there will always be a PSM Skillnet course in each of the regions across the country.

Furthermore, PSM Skillnet is designed to increase the level of skills in the procurement and supply management industry which in turn will increase competitive advantage for Ireland.