FCIPS: Fellowship has made me a role model

For Tayeb, procurement is more than just a career, it’s a passion and way to give back. As procurement associate director for ROSHN, a leading Saudi Arabian real estate developer, Tayeb has come a long way in his career but remains committed to learning and updating his skills.

Originally focused on construction management, Tayeb didn't set out to work in procurement, but fell into it as a programme engineer with procurement responsibilities. This role would drive him to not only want to work in procurement but undertake formal procurement training, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the profession.

Now a procurement practitioner with over 20 years’ experience in both the public and private sector, Tayeb’s journey to fellowship reveals a hunger to lead and acquire knowledge but also inspire others.

We spoke to Tayeb about his FCIPS journey and what achieving chartered status means to him.

Why did you want to achieve FCIPS?

Tayeb’s route to FCIPS would begin with the CIPS Applied Learning Programme (Corporate Award): a work-based programme for achieving chartered status. The programme would develop his learning and knowledge and provide him with on-the-job experience. This engagement with procurement, but also CIPS, would inspire him to go one step further and pursue FCIPS. As Tayeb recalls, the desire to counsel others and share knowledge was a big part of his drive for fellowship. 

“What drew me to achieving FCIPS was the opportunity to learn and give back,” says Tayeb. “FCIPS equips you with the skills and knowledge to advance the role of procurement in organisations and support others in their careers. As well as influence corporate decision-making.”

Tayeb adds that what kept him going was the desire to set an example.

“I wanted to show what an important milestone FCIPS is and why it should be a target for all practitioners,” he says. “FCIPS isn’t just a title, it’s a responsibility and that’s something worth striving for.”

What big learnings have you taken from your journey to FCIPS?

Tayeb’s FCIPS journey has taught him many things, including the importance of active learning (a method of learning where students engage in their learning by thinking, discussing, creating and investigating). 

“Active learning is a continuous process for procurement practitioners and is something we must keep up,” he says.

Fellowship has also instilled in Tayeb the need to take initiative.

“We’re all looking to accelerate our careers and make an impact, and what drives this is taking initiative. For many, this means getting out there, building a network and engaging with the wider community. FCIPS helps you do this.”

How has FCIPS benefitted you professionally?

Achieving FCIPS has made Tayeb a role model to others and encouraged him to keep up his learning. It’s also expanded his professional network. 

“Getting there was important, but I’ve a reputation to uphold – people look up to me. As a role model to others, I’m still very much learning and finding my way. I'm reading more than I was before and people are coming to me for support and advice.” 

This drive for continuous learning is what inspires him to keep up his chartered status.

“Maintaining my chartered status keeps me up to date with the latest trends and insights that I need to do my job effectively. This has helped me get to where I am in my career.”

What advice would you give to those with MCIPS who are thinking of applying for FCIPS?

“Start early – the day you’re awarded MCIPS, is your first day in the journey towards FCIPS,” says Tayeb. “The earlier you begin, the quicker you’ll be able to get ahead and make your mark.” 

Tayeb’s second piece of advice is to be selfless in your pursuit of fellowship.

“As procurement professionals, we have our work-life pressures – and they can be difficult to balance. Especially for leaders or aspiring leaders,” says Tayeb.

“But the journey to FCIPS means making time for others and giving back to the community. Those who seek fellowship must do this if they’re to achieve the grade – it isn’t just a question of going it on your own.”

We’d love to hear your FCIPS stories, please email us at editorial@cips.org

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