Starting as a Purchasing Assistant in 2017, Luke has worked his way up to become a Purchasing Manager and a member of the Senior Management team at his site. His journey highlights the transformational power of hard work, strategic thinking, and professional development through CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply).
This week, we catch up with Luke to explore his experience studying CIPS with Aspire and how it has shaped his career in procurement.
Tell us about your role and organisation.
“I started as a Purchasing Assistant in 2017 and have since progressed to Purchasing Manager. Last year, I joined the Senior Management team at my site.
I currently run the Purchasing department at Berry Global, but since 2020, I’ve also led cost-saving initiatives and tender projects at two of their sister sites and across the UK. Over the years, I’ve transitioned from focusing solely on my site to taking on projects with a national impact.”
Why did you choose CIPS?
“I wanted to build a stronger foundation in procurement, improve my understanding of best practices, and enhance my skills across the many facets of procurement. Ultimately, my goal was to establish myself as a site, company, and industry leader within procurement – and, of course, improve my position and salary in the process!”
What did you like most about studying CIPS with Aspire?
“Aspire offered very flexible course options that suited my schedule. The tutors were experienced professionals who provided practical, real-world examples, which helped me understand how to apply what I learned.
The resources provided were excellent for structured revision, and the study sessions complemented self-learning perfectly. I also appreciated the flexible exam centre options for my region and the rapid responses to any changes or questions I had along the way.”
How has CIPS benefitted you and your job role?
“My journey into procurement was unconventional – I wasn’t aware of the function until I was already working in it. CIPS gave me the knowledge and credibility I needed to establish myself in the field.
Achieving CIPS Level 4 was a turning point for me. It marked my promotion from Assistant to Coordinator, where I transformed two part-time buyer roles into a formalised procurement department. At the time, there was no procurement knowledge on-site, so CIPS was an essential support for me.
Beyond that, the qualification has provided me with transferable skills in tendering, supplier management, and creative cost reduction – areas that are often overlooked in operationally focused environments. Over the past few years, I’ve been a key driver behind cost savings and continuous improvement at both site and national levels.
CIPS qualifications are often critical for career progression in procurement, and they’ve been instrumental in my own growth from a site-level role to influencing projects on a global scale.”
Would you recommend CIPS to others working in procurement?
“For anyone considering a career in procurement, supply chain, or project roles, I absolutely recommend CIPS. It’s a fantastic way to understand the function and unlock the value procurement can bring to a business.
The qualification helps build professional knowledge, boosts confidence in the role, and drives greater involvement in business operations. It can take you from being a lone buyer to leading a department – and beyond.
My advice to students is to compare what you’re learning to real-world workplace experiences. Use the CIPS resources and knowledge to implement positive changes or improve existing systems. Theory alone isn’t enough – you need to put it into practice to see the real benefits.”
What’s next for you?
Having achieved his MCIPS accreditation, Luke is now a key player in procurement. His story is a testament to how CIPS can transform not just a career but the wider business functions it supports.
Kickstart your career today.
If you’re ready to take your procurement career to the next level, explore the flexible course options offered by Aspire, a CIPS Centre of Excellence. Simply call us on 0808 231 2477 or complete our enquiry form here.