OPERATING WITH A PERSPECTIVE
WHY TAKE THIS COURSE AT BBS?
For you:
- Develop advanced skills to manage sourcing, suppliers, risk and spend value.
- Strengthen your negotiation, analytical and strategic skills throughout the Source-to-Pay process.
For your company:
- Transform procurement from a cost center into a driver of value and competitiveness.
- Improve supplier management, sustainability, risk management and make-or-buy decisions.
A Forward-Looking Approach
The executive course in Procurement Management addresses a concrete challenge: transforming spend management into a strategic driver of value that supports business profitability. Today, procurement leaders must go beyond cost control: they need to master advanced tools, understand markets and build supplier relationships aligned with business objectives.
The program provides a comprehensive, up-to-date overview of the procurement function, addressing key organizational aspects, skills and operational tools across the entire Source-to-Pay process. Topics range from supplier scouting and qualification to risk management, financial and cost analysis (Total Cost of Ownership, make-or-buy), and advanced Spend Analysis and Vendor Management practices enabled by the digital technologies now central to procurement’s evolving strategic role.
Throughout the program, participants develop the ability to identify business needs, define effective sourcing strategies and select partners capable of creating long-term value. Particular attention is paid to relationship-building and negotiation skills, which are increasingly critical in complex, competitive environments.
The Open Program in Procurement Management balances cost efficiency with value creation, offering a practical perspective that participants can immediately apply. Taking the course at Bologna Business School also means joining a strong network of professionals and companies, fostering new business opportunities and strengthening your competitive advantage.
The program consists of four thematic modules, totaling 14 days delivered in a weekend format (Fridays and Saturdays). Classes are taught by academics, consultants and business managers, and enriched by insights from industry speakers, best practices and practical exercises. The program concludes with the presentation of a final project.
The course is designed for buyers, CPOs, managers, SME entrepreneurs and procurement professionals who want to take their careers to the next level and make a tangible contribution to their organization’s growth.
ACCREDITATIONS AND RANKINGS
Bologna Business School is EQUIS – EFMD Quality Improvement System accredited, one of the most important international quality assessment and continuous improvement systems for Schools of Management and Business Administration.
Bologna Business School’s Open Programs are listed in the Financial Times Executive Education Ranking 2026.
Giovanni Contino
Executive Director
giovanni.contino@bbs.unibo.it
"Procurement is no longer just about cost. It is about strategy, value and competitive advantage.
Today, those who manage corporate spending make decisions that affect the entire value chain. Choosing suppliers means assessing sustainability, risk, quality, working capital and opportunities for innovation—not just price.
The Chief Procurement Officer and their team are at the heart of this transformation: they lead sourcing strategies, make make-or-buy decisions, assess financial and reputational risks, and manage complex relationships in global, digital environments. This requires advanced skills, strategic vision and proficiency in sophisticated tools—from negotiation to international contracting.
This programme prepares you to do exactly that.
You will gain the foundations to:
- Develop an effective procurement strategy
- Design a robust, results-oriented organisation
- Monitor and improve performance
- Apply tools and techniques to optimise Total Cost of Ownership
A programme designed for those who want to move from an operational focus to a truly strategic role."
CLASS PROFILE
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37
ETÀ MEDIA
-
22% F – 78% M
SESSO
Structure
The course runs over 4 months, combining full-time learning sessions, practical exercises and role play.
It comprises 14 days, spread across 7 weekends.
Classes take place on Fridays and Saturdays, from 9:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
The course covers 4 teaching modules:
- Procurement Strategy & Organization
- 13 November 2026 (on campus)
- 14 November 2026 (on campus)
- Procurement Tools
- 27 November 2026 (on campus)
- 28 November 2026 (on campus)
- 11 December 2026 (on campus)
- 12 December 2026 (on campus)
- Supplier Finance Management
- 8 January 2027 (on campus)
- 9 January 2027 (on campus)
- 22 January 2027 (on campus)
- 23 January 2027 (on campus)
- Supplier Relationship and Negotiation
- 5 February 2027 (on campus)
- 6 February 2027 (on campus)
- 19 February 2027 (on campus)
- 20 February 2027 (on campus)
The modules will include guest lectures by industry professionals:
- Barbara Cecchele, Dab Pumps
- Domenico Curci, Hera
- Francesco Malaguti, CAMST
- Marco Sibilia, Kelmer
- Daniela Zanasi, Rekeep
COURSES
- Strategic Importance of Procurement for the Business
- Impact of Purchasing on Profitability
- Strategy and Organization in Procurement
- Procurement Performance: Metrics and Scorecard
- Structuring and Monitoring the Strategic Procurement Plan
- The Lean Approach to the Purchasing Process
- Procurement and Supply Chain Management
- Time Management: Value-Added Activities in Procurement
- Procurement Skills: Measurement and Mapping
- The Ducati Case: Change Management in Procurement
- Workshop: Developing a Change Management Project in Procurement
Contino Giovanni
- The Fundamental Tools of Procurement
- Spend Analysis and Category Management
- Category Management and the Kraljic Matrix
- Vendor Rating and Supplier Qualification
- Measuring Supplier Performance: Quality and Service
- Cost Reduction Tools and Techniques
- Value Analysis and Value Engineering
- The P2P Process, Tendering, and Agile Procurement
- Purchasing Services and Logistics
- Digital Procurement, AI, and Related Enabling Systems
- Technological Solutions Supporting Procurement
Contino Giovanni
- Introduction to Economic, Financial, and Asset Terminology
- Analysis of the Economic and Financial Impacts of Procurement Decisions
- Make-or-Buy Analysis Criteria
- Trade-Off Analysis Between Discount and Payment Terms
- Cost Configurations and Costing of Products and Services
- Total Cost of Ownership in Supply: Theory and Practical Calculation
- Supplier Financial Statement Analysis: Theory and Case Studies
- Profitability, Efficiency, Debt, Liquidity, and Risk Indicators
- Credit Management: An Opportunity for Buyers and Suppliers
- Risk Analysis, Reporting, and Financial Ranking
- The Negotiation Process: The Value of a Method
- How to Prepare for Negotiation
- Skills, Competencies, and Techniques for Negotiation
- Managing Stress in Critical Situations and Under Uncertain Conditions
- Techniques for Dispute and Conflict Resolution
- Negotiation Role Play
- Communication and Persuasion in Virtual Negotiation Processes
- Emotional Intelligence: Awareness and Emotional Self-Management in Negotiation
- Intercompany Communication and Role Recognition
- Sustainable Procurement: Regulations, Opportunities, and Trends
- Best-in-Class Procurement Case Studies and Testimonials
- Group Project Work Presentation
Learning approach
The course will offer a balanced mix of lectures, case studies and best practices shared firsthand by managers, group assignments prepared and presented in class, discussions and role-playing.
The programme is supported by an online platform providing access to course materials, videos, bibliographical references and additional resources for further study.
Faculty
Faculty members at Bologna Business School work together offering outstanding teaching standards. An international and interdisciplinary approach is guaranteed by a joint team of distinguished national core professors, adjunct, visiting professors, guest speakers and top managers.
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Giovanni Contino
Chief Executive Officer & Senior Consultant
Contino & Partners
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Filippo Boccali
Adjunct Professor and Research Fellow of Management
University of Bologna
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Barbara Cecchele
Group Purchase Manager
Dab Pumps
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Marco Del Giaccio
Purchasing and Procurement Director | Central Corporate Services Directorate
HERA Spa Group
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Massimo Franceschetti
Coach and Consultant
Equilibra
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Filippo Martini
Adjunct Professor in Negotiation and Mediation
University of Ferrara
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Carmen Carulli
Founder - Data & Human Transformation Advisor in CC Elevate e Vicepresident
WIP (Women in Procurement)
CLASS PROFILE
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37
ETÀ MEDIA
-
22% F – 78% M
SESSO
Alumni
MANUELA LEPORE
Administration & Purchase Manager, Nextys a TDK Company Group.
Procurement Management (ed. 2022-2023)
"In a year of record enrolment, the Procurement Management course proved to be a blended learning programme that provided the in-depth knowledge needed to fulfil a crucial role within a company—one that is increasingly connected to supply chain management, finance and sales. Theory consistently met practice through insights shared by distinguished guest speakers from a range of industries. Particularly engaging were the modules on sustainable procurement and digital procurement, the financial management module, which added significant value to the programme, and the module on negotiation and emotional intelligence. It was an engaging journey, equipping us with the right toolkit to succeed in the world of procurement."
Giulia Lattanzi
Global Supplier Quality Engineer - Datalogic
Procurement Management (ed. 2024-2025)
"The course gave me a broader, more strategic perspective on procurement. It proved to be a truly enriching experience, helping me better understand the management principles and decision-making processes that shape supplier relationships."
Sara Cortopassi
Buyer Lucart Group
Procurement Management ( ed. 2025-2026)
"The Procurement Management course at Bologna Business School was an invaluable learning and professional development experience. It helped me develop a broader, more strategic view of procurement, equipping me with practical tools to create value and support business objectives, even in complex manufacturing environments. The well-structured programme, enriched by ongoing dialogue with outstanding faculty and experienced professionals, allowed me to expand my professional network and exchange insights with people from diverse business backgrounds. Studying at a leading institution such as Bologna Business School also brings significant added value—not only through the quality of its teaching, but also through its stimulating environment and international outlook, which support professional growth and broaden managerial perspectives."
Networking
Networking takes place between students in the same class, between participants and lecturers, and with students from other courses or previous editions of the same program.
Alumni
MANUELA LEPORE
Administration & Purchase Manager, Nextys a TDK Company Group.
Procurement Management (ed. 2022-2023)
"In a year of record enrolment, the Procurement Management course proved to be a blended learning programme that provided the in-depth knowledge needed to fulfil a crucial role within a company—one that is increasingly connected to supply chain management, finance and sales. Theory consistently met practice through insights shared by distinguished guest speakers from a range of industries. Particularly engaging were the modules on sustainable procurement and digital procurement, the financial management module, which added significant value to the programme, and the module on negotiation and emotional intelligence. It was an engaging journey, equipping us with the right toolkit to succeed in the world of procurement."
Giulia Lattanzi
Global Supplier Quality Engineer - Datalogic
Procurement Management (ed. 2024-2025)
"The course gave me a broader, more strategic perspective on procurement. It proved to be a truly enriching experience, helping me better understand the management principles and decision-making processes that shape supplier relationships."
Sara Cortopassi
Buyer Lucart Group
Procurement Management ( ed. 2025-2026)
"The Procurement Management course at Bologna Business School was an invaluable learning and professional development experience. It helped me develop a broader, more strategic view of procurement, equipping me with practical tools to create value and support business objectives, even in complex manufacturing environments. The well-structured programme, enriched by ongoing dialogue with outstanding faculty and experienced professionals, allowed me to expand my professional network and exchange insights with people from diverse business backgrounds. Studying at a leading institution such as Bologna Business School also brings significant added value—not only through the quality of its teaching, but also through its stimulating environment and international outlook, which support professional growth and broaden managerial perspectives."
COMPANIES
Over the years, our partners have been constantly involved in the various activities that make up the structure of our programs. Companies belonging to our network participate in project work and master classes; they actively contribute to introducing guest speakers and organizing company visits. Our partners are our first supporters: they sponsor various scholarships, host internships for students and provide professional opportunities for graduates.
The partner companies of Bologna Business School are:
AEROPORTO G. MARCONI ASSICOOP BOLOGNA METROPOLITANA AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI BOLOGNA FIERE BREVINI POWER TRANSMISSION CAMERA DI COMMERCIO DI BOLOGNA CAMERA DI COMMERCIO DI FERRARA CAMERA DI COMMERCIO DI FORLÌ-CESENA CAMERA DI COMMERCIO DI MODENA CAMERA DI COMMERCIO DI RIMINI CAMST CARPIGIANI GROUP CASSA DI RISPARMIO IN BOLOGNA CONFCOMMERCIO EMILIA ROMAGNA CONFINDUSTRIA EMILIA ROMAGNA COSWELL DATALOGIC DUCATI MOTOR HOLDING ENEL ENGINEERING INGEGNERIA INFORMATICA EXPERT SYSTEM FALORNI FASTWEB FERRARELLE FERRARI FERRETTI GROUP FINALMA FONDAZIONE CARISBO FONDAZIONE CASSA RISPARMIO CESENA FONDAZIONE CASSA RISPARMIO DI CENTO FONDAZIONE CASSA RISPARMIO DI IMOLA FONDAZIONE CASSA DI RISPARMIO DI CARPI FONDAZIONE CASSA DI RISPARMIO DI FERRARA FONDAZIONE CASSA DI RISPARMIO DI PADOVA E ROVIGO FONDAZIONE G. MARCONI FONDAZIONE IBM ITALIA FONDAZIONE ISABELLA SERÀGNOLI FONDAZIONE DEL MONTE DI BOLOGNA E RAVENNA FONDAZIONE PER LA COLLABORAZIONE TRA I POPOLI FOOD TREND FOUNDATION FURLA GOOGLE ITALIA GRANAROLO GROUPM GRUPPO COESIA GRUPPO SISTEMA H-ART HSPI HAWORTH HERA HORSA IBM ITALIA IMA ICONSULTING INTESA SAN PAOLO KPMG ADVISORY LABORATORI GUGLIELMO MARCONI LANDI RENZO LEGACOOP BOLOGNA LIGHTHOUSE MANUTENCOOP MAPE MAPS MASAI ITALIA MASERATI MICROSOFT ITALIA MONTENEGRO N.C.H. NUOVI CANTIERI APUANIA OLIDATA ONIT GROUP OPERA SANTA MARIA DEL FIORE PHILIP MORRIS ITALIA POLTRONESOFÀ REGIONE EMILIA-ROMAGNA RICOH S.E.C.I. GRUPPO INDUSTRIALE MACCAFERRI SAP SCS CONSULTING STMICROELECTRONICS SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC SEPS TECHNOGYM TEUCO THE BOSTON CONSULTING GROUP TOYOTA MATERIAL HANDLING ITALIA TREVI GROUP UMBERTO CESARI UNICREDIT UNIEURO UNINDUSTRIA BOLOGNA UNIPOL VEM SISTEMI VERONESI VIABIZZUNO VIDEOWORKS VOLVO CAR ITALIA WPP ITALIA YOOX NET-A-PORTER GROUP
FEES
The registration fee for the Module – Strategic Procurement is:
2.000 euros (+ vat) for registrations from companies and institutions
1.600 euro euros (+ vat) for individual registrations
The registration fee for the Module – Procurement Tools is:
2.000 euros (+ vat) for registrations from companies and institutions
1.600 euro euros (+ vat) for individual registrations
The registration fee for the Module – Supplier Finance is:
2.000 euros (+ vat) for registrations from companies and institutions
1.600 euro euros (+ vat) for individual registrations
The registration fee for the Module – Negotiation is:
2.000 euros (+ vat) for registrations from companies and institutions
1.600 euro euros (+ vat) for individual registrations
The registration fee for enrollments from companies and institutions is 5.200 euros (plus VAT) to be paid by the start date of the course.
The registration fee for individual enrollments is 4.200 euros (plus VAT) to be paid by the start date of the course.
There are special terms for early enrolments.
The fee includes attendance at the program, all study materials available through the online platform and access to Bologna Business School services, which include: personal wi-fi BBS account, use of Computer Lab PCs, use of study areas and access to the internal gym.
In the School park there is a large free car park.
Discounts are available:
- for Business Network companies;
- for BBS Alumni;
- for groups of at least 3 people.
INTERPROFESSIONAL FUNDS
Alumni and companies can check the availability of vouchers at the Interprofessional Fund of reference:
Fondimpresa – for middle managers/ middle management
Fondo Dirigenti PMI – for managers of Industrial SMEs
Fonditalia
Fondirigenti – for managers
Fon.Coop – for cooperative companies
REQUIREMENTS
The course is reserved for a maximum of 25 participants with at least 2 years of work experience.
APPLICATION PROCESS
To register, simply download the registration form and send it by email.
FAQs
At the end of the course, a participation certificate is issued (upon reaching 80% of classroom hours).
The documents used in the classroom and any further reading or exercises will be uploaded to our platform, whose credentials will be delivered in the classroom.
Should a group of colleagues wish to participate in the program, it is possible to contact the Program Manager to evaluate an ad hoc participation price.
Our short courses do not require a specific course of study. It is important to have a few years of work experience behind you that can help you, inside the classroom, by bringing real cases dealt with and solutions adopted during your work.
