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Bernard Gracia
Dean and Director of European Institute of Purchasing Management
Professional Background
Bernard Gracia is a prominent figure in the field of purchasing and supply chain management, known for his pioneering work in post-graduate education in these areas. His journey began with a vision of enhancing education in purchasing management, leading him to collaborate in launching one of the world's first postgraduate programs in Purchasing—the MAI (Master of Industrial Purchasing) at the Bordeaux Business School. With a rich background in academia and industry partnerships, Bernard took a significant step in 1990 when he co-founded the European Institute of Purchasing Management (EIPM). As the Dean and Director of EIPM, he has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of purchasing education in Europe.
Bernard’s vision for the EIPM was clear: to advance purchasing and supply management practices through academia, research, and collaboration with leading companies. Under his leadership, EIPM successfully launched the first MBA specialized in Purchasing in Europe, which has become a crucial program for professionals looking to elevate their expertise in this vital area of business. His efforts also led to the establishment of the first European Roundtable for Chief Purchasing Officers (CPOs), creating a platform for industry leaders to share best practices, strategic insights, and foster collaboration across sectors. Bernard continues to engage in training and research activities that focus on Corporate Purchasing Strategy, organizational structures in purchasing, and the contribution of purchasing to value creation within organizations.
Education and Achievements
Bernard Gracia has built a solid academic foundation that supports his influential career in purchasing management. He pursued his Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the prestigious University of Texas at Austin, where he gained comprehensive knowledge and skills in business management. His education was further enhanced by studying at Kedge Business School, recognized for its commitment to excellence in business education, especially in the areas of management and international business.
In addition to these esteemed institutions, Bernard studied at the European Institute of Purchasing Management (EIPM), enriching his understanding of purchasing management fundamentals and strategic application. His educational experience has not only shaped his professional outlook but also underpinned his capacity to teach and guide future leaders in the purchasing field.
Bernard’s career is marked by multiple notable achievements. His role in the inception of pioneering postgraduate programs reflects his dedication to elevating the profession of purchasing. The recognition EIPM has gained under his direction signals the industry's trust and reliance on the institution to deliver top-tier educational offerings. Moreover, his active involvement in shaping corporate purchasing strategies and defining the role of procurement in business performance has led to notable contributions that have been recognized globally.
Achievements
Bernard Gracia's achievements in the realm of purchasing and supply chain management are commendable and reflect his deep commitment to the industry. As a founder and leader of the EIPM, he has had a profound impact on the careers of many procurement professionals, arming them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in an increasingly complex business environment. His successful launch of the first MBA specialized in Purchasing in Europe demonstrates his vision to align academic learning with real-world industry needs.
Additionally, the EIPM has become a hub for research and innovation in purchasing, thanks to Bernard’s efforts. The organization's initiatives empower professionals to innovate and implement best practices in procurement that drive value creation within their organizations. His establishment of the European Roundtable for CPOs has also fostered a sense of community and collaboration, allowing industry leaders to exchange knowledge and strategies that influence the purchasing landscape across Europe.
Bernard Gracia remains a leading figure in transforming the purchasing profession through education, strategic leadership, and collaboration, fostering a new generation of skilled procurement professionals who understand the importance of purchasing as a driver of organizational success.
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