The National Outsourcing Association has launched the UK’s first accredited professional outsourcing qualifications and training programmes. Available immediately and delivered through its newly formed professional development arm, NOA Pathway, the qualifications are accredited by Middlesex University. There are different qualifications and entry points available, to ensure that every outsourcing professional is catered for. The programmes range from the entry-level NOA Gateway, which offers learners a solid foundation in outsourcing, through to the masters level NOA Diploma. A range of training programmes covering all aspects of the outsourcing lifecycle are also being launched.

Introduced in response to demand from its members and following three years of development, the NOA becomes the only UK entity to raise standards by establishing an industry-wide benchmark for quality in outsourcing. The qualifications and training programmes will help both organisations and individuals achieve best practice in both the supply and use of outsourcing, giving them a competitive edge.

Martyn Hart, chairman of the NOA commented: “Globalisation has accelerated the rise of outsourcing. While this brings opportunities, it also brings some challenges. Until now, there has been no common best practice standard or benchmark for outsourcing and there is no way of recognising whether staff involved know their subject or not. NOA Pathways helps organisations evaluate suppliers/vendors and enables them to trust the supplier’s outsourcing knowledge, commitment and ability.”

The qualifications and training programmes have been designed and optimised to complement any organisation’s or professional’s work in outsourcing. Through a programme of work-based learning and workshops, individuals can achieve the following qualifications: NOAC – the NOA Professional Certificate, NOAAPC - the NOA Advanced Professional Certificate and NOAD - the NOA Diploma in strategic global outsourcing.

“By offering accredited professional development in outsourcing, NOA Pathway is establishing a recognisable kite mark for quality in the outsourcing industry. In line with the NOA’s commitment to best practice, NOA Pathway was created to increase outsourcing professionals’ expertise, confidence and knowledge of the outsourcing industry and to help organisations’ outsourcing teams stay ahead of developments in the outsourcing world.

“This innovative step to ensuring outsourcing organisations and individuals are fully trained in outsourcing best practice will improve the procurement and selection process, as well as enhance the strategic partnership between end users and suppliers,” concluded Hart.