CIPS Principal Marker (External) Report:

Qualification: Professional diploma in procurement and supply

Module: L6M2 Global Commercial Strategy
Exam series: Nov 2020
Date of completion: 29 Dec 2020

These reports are designed to help tutors and learners understand the common trends presented by both
strong and weaker answers in relation to the module for the given exam series.

Learning Outcome 1:
This question addressed Leaning Outcome 1: Understand and apply the concept of commercial global
strategy in organisations. This question was about strategic decisions. Most candidates were able to
identify organisational strategic decisions however many did not extend their answer to include much, if
any, detail on the second part of the question. Some of the better answers were able to define strategy, the
levels of decision making in an organisation, to write about complexity, scope, timescale, and other factors.
Learning Outcome 2
This question addressed Leaning Outcome 2: Understand and apply tools and techniques to address the
challenges of global supply chains. This question focused on the supply chain function. Most candidates
used 5 Forces matrix and/or Ansoff as a base to respond to this question and were awarded marks
accordingly. However, many learners included extremely limited or no reference at all to impacts factors
have on the supply chain function. Some of the better answers were able to weave in barriers such as
legislation, economies of scale, technology, industry knowledge and supply networks with their chosen
framework and also provide the necessary links to the supply chain function.
Learning Outcome 3
This question addressed Leaning Outcome 3: Understand strategy formulation and implementation. This
question focused on strategic alliances and acquisitions in relation to the case material provided. Most
learners were able to provide enough information to pass the question. Better answers addressed both
parts of the question and included links back to the case material throughout or as a summary.
Learning Outcome 4:0
This question addressed Leaning Outcome 4: Understand financial aspects that affect procurement and
supply. This concerned volatility in exchange rates. Many answers were very brief and lacked the level of
detail to pass this question. Others answered with multiple short mitigations for volatility and gained
marks accordingly. Most answers focused on financial mitigations, but many confused forward (bicontract)
and futures (exchanges and regulated) for example. The better answers were able to provide a blend of
financial and practical mitigations factors (e.g., partnership type relationships) and described how
procurement could use these in line with the case material.

L6M2_PM EXTERNAL REPORT Nov 2020

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