CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply

SRSCC Average Pass Rate for CIPS L5 Advanced Diploma
97%
CIPS National Average Pass Rate for CIPS L5 Advanced Diploma
81%

Advance your procurement career with a CIPS Centre of Excellence.

Is the CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma Right for You?

If you have already achieved the CIPS Level 4 Diploma, the Level 5 Advanced Diploma is the natural next step for developing broader strategic procurement and supply capability. It is designed for professionals who are taking on greater responsibility across areas such as category management, risk, supplier relationships and commercial decision-making.

The qualification supports progression towards middle and senior procurement roles by developing the advanced knowledge needed to manage complex supply chains, improve organisational value and contribute more strategically to business performance.

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Who This Course Is Suited To

The CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma is designed for experienced procurement and supply professionals who are ready to take on greater strategic and managerial responsibility.

  • Aspiring Leaders: Professionals progressing towards managerial or senior procurement responsibilities.
  • Experienced Buyers and Contract Managers: Practitioners who want to strengthen their strategic, commercial and supplier-management capability.
  • Supply Chain Professionals: Those responsible for improving performance, managing risk and contributing to wider organisational objectives.
  • Level 4 Graduates: Learners who have successfully completed the CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply.

What You'll Learn

The qualification develops advanced procurement and supply knowledge across strategic, commercial and managerial areas. You will build capability in:

  • Leading and managing individuals and teams effectively.
  • Identifying, assessing and managing supply chain and contractual risk.
  • Applying advanced commercial, contractual and financial management techniques.
  • Managing ethical and responsible procurement and supply practices.
  • Developing strategic capability in areas such as category management, negotiation and logistics.
  • Supporting organisational performance through improved value, quality and commercial decision-making.

On completion, you will have developed advanced professional knowledge that can support progression into more strategic procurement and supply roles and further CIPS study.

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CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma Modules & Exam Structure

To achieve the CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply, you will complete five core modules and choose three elective modules from a choice of six.

The core modules develop advanced knowledge across areas such as team leadership, supply chain risk, contract and financial management, while the electives allow you to specialise in areas including category management, logistics and advanced negotiation.

5 Mandatory Core Modules

Required units for the full qualification

L5M1: Managing Teams & Individuals

12 Credits

Building leadership and management excellence to drive high performance and professional standards within your teams.

L5M2: Managing Supply Chain Risk

6 Credits

Identifying, assessing and mitigating global supply threats to support organisational resilience.

L5M3: Managing Contractual Risk

6 Credits

Understanding contractual risk and applying appropriate approaches to help protect your organisation within commercial agreements.

L5M4: Advanced Contract & Financial Management

12 Credits

Developing commercial and financial knowledge to support effective contract management and improved business outcomes.

L5M5: Managing Ethical Procurement & Supply

6 Credits

Developing responsible procurement practice, professional integrity and appropriate ethical standards across supply chains.

Choose 3 Electives

Customise your learning by selecting three modules

L5M6: Category Management

6 Credits

Develop advanced category management approaches to support strategic value, supplier performance and commercial objectives.

L5M7: Achieving Competitive Advantage Through the Supply Chain

6 Credits

Explore approaches that can strengthen supply chain performance and contribute to sustainable competitive advantage.

L5M8: Project & Change Management

6 Credits

Develop the knowledge required to plan projects, manage change and support successful organisational improvement.

L5M9: Operations Management

6 Credits

Explore operational approaches that can improve efficiency, quality and performance across procurement and supply activities.

L5M10: Logistics Management

6 Credits

Understand the strategic role of logistics, transport and the effective movement of goods and materials through the supply chain.

L5M15: Advanced Negotiation

6 Credits

Develop advanced negotiation approaches for complex commercial discussions, supplier relationships and procurement agreements.

Exam Formats CIPS Level 5 modules are assessed through computer-based Objective Response and Constructed Response examinations.
Assessment Structure Assessment format and duration vary by module, with both objective-response and written constructed-response exams used across the qualification.
Qualification Structure Complete all five core modules plus three elective modules to achieve the full CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma in Procurement and Supply.
Exam Arrangements CIPS examinations are computer-based and completed through approved CIPS examination arrangements.

Trusted by Leading Organisations to Train Their Teams

The CIPS Pathway

The CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma is an important stage in your professional development, building on the knowledge gained at Level 4 and developing more advanced strategic and managerial capability.

The qualification strengthens your understanding of areas including leadership, commercial decision-making, risk, supplier relationships and supply chain performance. It also provides the progression route to the CIPS Level 6 Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply and supports your continued development towards MCIPS professional status.

Save with our "Pathway to MCIPS" Package

Secure your route to Chartered status and save on course fees by booking multiple levels at once. Our Pathway to MCIPS package offers a significant discount for learners committing to their journey to CIPS Level 6.

Flexible Study Options: Online, Classroom, or Self-Paced

We understand that learners have different commitments and preferred ways of studying. SRSCC offers flexible CIPS Level 5 study options designed to fit around your work and other responsibilities. Each route leads to the same qualification, allowing you to choose the approach that suits you best.
Live virtual CIPS Level 5 classroom
💻 Live Virtual

Live Virtual Classroom

Best for: Structured learning without travel
Tutor Support Live guidance from experienced CIPS tutors, with additional support available outside scheduled sessions.
Format Scheduled, interactive virtual workshops with live tutor guidance, group discussion and practical activities.
Includes session recordings, exam revision support and access to SRSCC's independent online learning resources.
  • Learners who prefer structured study without travel
  • Interactive, real-time learning
  • Online discussion and networking with other learners
Explore Live Virtual
CIPS Level 5 distance learning and independent study
📖 ILZ

Independent Learning Zone

Best for: Self-paced, flexible study
SRSCC's CIPS Level 5 Distance Learning option is ideal for professionals who want to study at their own pace, with structured online resources and tutor support.
Tutor Support Email support for questions and feedback on formative assessments.
Format Flexible, self-paced study through SRSCC's structured Independent Learning Zone (ILZ).
Access course videos, learning materials, formative assessments, revision resources and progress support through the Independent Learning Zone.
  • Self-motivated independent learners
  • Professionals with busy or unpredictable schedules
  • Learners looking for maximum study flexibility
Explore Independent Learning
CIPS Level 5 classroom learning
🏫 Classroom

Classroom (Preston)

Best for: Traditional in-person study
Our face-to-face CIPS Level 5 classroom option is ideal for learners who prefer structured, tutor-led learning and direct interaction with other procurement professionals.
Tutor Support Face-to-face tuition from experienced procurement and supply practitioners, including MCIPS and FCIPS-qualified tutors.
Format Structured small-group classroom sessions with opportunities for discussion, practical application and tutor support.
SRSCC offers classroom-based CIPS study in the North West. View the classroom information for current venue details, facilities and travel information.
  • Learners who prefer face-to-face tuition
  • Structured classroom-based study
  • Networking and discussion with other professionals
Explore Classroom
CIPS Level 5 employer training
👥 Employer Training

Employer Training

Best for: Upskilling teams together
Develop procurement capability across your organisation with CIPS Level 5 training delivered around the needs of your team.
Tutor Support Dedicated tutor support for your organisation's learner cohort.
Format Bespoke training delivered on-site, virtually or through a blended approach to suit your organisation.
Delivery can be planned around organisational requirements, with learning contextualised to relevant procurement, supply chain and commercial challenges.
  • Upskilling procurement teams together
  • Aligning professional development with business goals
  • Flexible group training for employers
Explore Employer Training

What Our Learners Say

Flexible Funding Options

🏢

Employer Sponsorship

  • Course fees may be fully or partially funded by your employer.
  • Direct payment or reimbursement arrangements may be available.
  • SRSCC can provide quotations and information to support employer approval.
💳

Self-Funding

  • Pay your CIPS Level 5 course fees directly.
  • Flexible payment options may be available to help spread the cost.
  • Speak to our team about current payment arrangements.
🗓️

Klarna / Payment Options

  • Flexible payment options may be available.
  • Spread eligible course fees across manageable payments.
  • Payment options are subject to the provider's current terms and eligibility.
🎖️

ELCAS (Armed Forces)

  • Available to eligible serving UK Armed Forces personnel and service leavers.
  • Enhanced Learning Credits can support approved Level 3 and above qualifications.
  • Funding is subject to ELCAS eligibility and approved provider and course status.
💡

Discount: Save on course fees by enrolling on SRSCC's "Pathway to MCIPS" package, covering your planned progression from Level 4 through to Level 6. If you have a comparable like-for-like quote from another provider, speak to our team about SRSCC's price-match options.

SRSCC offers a range of payment and funding options for CIPS Level 5 learners, including employer sponsorship, self-funding and ELCAS support for eligible Armed Forces personnel. Flexible payment options may also be available to help spread the cost of study.

Speak to our Team About CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma


CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma FAQs

Our CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma Course is a higher-level professional qualification in procurement and supply, awarded by the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS). It is designed for experienced professionals looking to move into management and strategic roles.

The course focuses on managing procurement and supply chain activities, covering areas such as strategic sourcing, contract management, supplier relationships, risk, and commercial decision-making. It is equivalent to the second year of a UK undergraduate degree and is widely recognised by employers.

CIPS Level 5 is ideal for those progressing from Level 4 and supports progression towards senior roles and MCIPS status.

The CIPS Level 5 Advanced Diploma is ideal if you have procurement or supply chain experience and want to progress into management or strategic roles. It suits those who have completed CIPS Level 4 or have equivalent practical experience.

You will develop the skills needed to manage procurement and supply chain activities, including strategic sourcing, contract and supplier management, commercial decision-making, risk, ethics, and performance improvement.

Learners studying with SRSCC receive: 

  • Expert tutor-led delivery by qualified, industry-experienced professionals
  • Structured learning and formative assessments
  • Mock exams and revision sessions
  • Weekly tutor support sessions
  • Access to a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) with learning resources
  • Dedicated tutor email to ask questions outside of the classroom workshops
  • Additional resources and guidance are provided to assist with learning, revision and memory techniques.

Additional Learning Needs?  No problem, let us know and our Learner Engagement Team will work with you to ensure you get the necessary adjustments or additional resources. 

Failed an examination? Our team will work with you to prepare you for your resit. 

CIPS Level 5 typically takes 12 months to complete, depending on your study pace, prior experience, exam series and the learning format. Most learners study alongside work, allowing flexibility to progress module by module at a manageable pace. 

CIPS qualifications are designed for professionals working in any sector that buys goods or services.  The qualifications focus on transferable commercial, ethical, and supply chain principles, making them relevant across all industries. 

They are widely used across: 

  • Public, Private and Third Sector 
  • Procurement and supply chain 
  • Manufacturing and engineering 
  • Construction and infrastructure 
  • Public sector and healthcare 
  • Retail, FMCG, and logistics 
  • Energy, utilities, and natural resources 
  • Professional services 

Common roles include Procurement Manager, Category Manager, Contract Manager, Supply Chain Manager, Senior Buyer, and Commercial Manager.

We provide a comprehensive package of learning materials, including: 

  • Independent Learning Zone (ILZ)on our learner management system, e-learning modules, downloadable resources, and interactive study tools 
  • Practice exam questions, written and marked by CIPS-qualified tutors (including CIPS assessors)
  • Tutor prepared resources to enable you to succeed
  • Progress Tracking
  • Study guides(included in selected packages and delivered to your address) 
  • CIPS student membershipand exam entry (Can be included as part of the package) 

These resources are designed to support flexible, independent study alongside work, with structured content. 

CIPS Level 5 right for you? Enrol today

Bethanie Stimpson SRSCC

Bethanie Stimpson

Progress Mentor

Bethanie began her career in the fitness industry, working as a personal trainer and gym instructor before becoming involved in coaching children through a triathlon club. This experience sparked her passion for working with young people and ultimately led her into a career in education. She initially worked in a nursery and later as a one-to-one teaching assistant in a primary school, before completing her teaching qualification and postgraduate studies. Since then, Bethanie has taught in both the private and state education sectors.

Her academic background includes a qualification in Sports Development, Fitness and Coaching at college, alongside a Childhood & Youth undergraduate degree (2:1). These studies have enabled her to combine her interests in sport, education, and child development, shaping her holistic approach to teaching and mentoring.

Bethanie is passionate about supporting learners to achieve their goals — educationally, personally, and in terms of wellbeing. She places strong emphasis on communication and relationship building, and takes great pride in helping individuals build confidence and overcome challenges. One of her proudest achievements has been supporting learners who initially doubted themselves to grow in confidence and achieve success.

Outside of work, Bethanie has always maintained a strong interest in sport. She previously competed in triathlons and now focuses on running and swimming. In 2023, she completed the London Marathon — an achievement she is particularly proud of. She also enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and their two dogs, which is where she is happiest when not working.

Ola Kambul

Skills Coach

Ola began her career in supply chain within fast-paced warehouse and logistics environments, where she developed a strong understanding of operations and people management. Her journey into the Supply Chain sector wasn’t planned, but through hands-on experience she discovered a passion for improving processes and supporting others – which naturally led her into training and development.

She has progressed through a range of roles across operations, recruitment, and training, including Programme Coach and L&D Lead. She designed and delivered apprenticeship programmes, supporting over 40 learners to successful completion and contributing to strong quality outcomes and inspection success.  Her transition into mentoring was driven by a desire to make a direct impact on people’s confidence, growth, and career progression.

Ola’s mentoring style is supportive, structured, and empowering. She combines real operational experience with coaching expertise, helping learners apply knowledge in practical workplace settings. One of her proudest career achievements has been supporting learners who started with low confidence to achieve distinctions and progress into new roles within their organisations. She has also led a UK-wide Mental Health First Aider network, embedding wellbeing into workplace culture and supporting colleagues through challenging situations.

From day one, she shares a consistent message with every learner: “You’re more capable than you think – but you have to be willing to step outside your comfort zone to see it.”

Outside of work, Ola enjoys walking with her Border Collie, Luna, and cross stitching. She recommends Legacy by James Kerr to anyone in supply chain, for its powerful insights into leadership and culture. If she wasn’t working in mentoring and development, she would likely be pursuing a career as a Visual Merchandiser.

Jack Callaghan

Jack Moore

Operations Team Leader

In December 2023, Jack joined SRSCC as an Operations Coordinator and quickly established himself as a key member of the team.

Promoted to Team Leader in October 2024, Jack utilises his expertise in auditing processes and innovative problem-solving to identify and enhance growth opportunities.

Jack possesses a strong ability to analyse and refine systems and procedures, consistently uncovering chances for streamlining and automation that drive operational efficiency. He excels at communicating complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Detail-oriented yet big-picture focused, Jack applies his exceptional organisational skills to ensure the team adopts the most effective strategies for achieving both individual and collective goals.

His methodical approach and strategic mindset make Jack an invaluable asset to SRSCC, significantly contributing to the team’s success and the realisation of organisational objectives.