CIPS L4M6 Exam (page: 2)
CIPS Supplier Relationships
Updated on: 25-Dec-2025

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Stephen Jones is assessing the relationships he has with his supplier base.
Which of the following would be drivers for Stephen to adopt a partnership relationship with a supplier?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 4 only
  4. 2 and 4 only

Answer(s): D

Explanation:

High expenditure levels and the complexity of requirements justify partnership sourcing, as it allows for collaborative problem-solving, innovation, and cost-efficiency. CIPS emphasizes that partnerships are ideal when requirements are complex and require expertise from the supplier.



Sugar Doughnut Ltd has a jam supplier that they have used successfully for over ten years. They have made investments in the supplier's factory to support them with capital equipment upgrades in return for cost reduction on jam. The two companies also collaborate on bids for large supermarkets when looking to supply doughnuts and work together on quality improvements. No contracts exist between the two companies. Could this relationship be said to be a partnership relationship?

  1. No, because contracts do not exist between the two companies
  2. No, because they have only worked together for ten years
  3. Yes, because they have demonstrated close collaboration on various projects
  4. Yes, because they both operate in the food sector

Answer(s): C

Explanation:

The relationship qualifies as a partnership due to their collaboration, shared investments, and mutual efforts toward improvement, regardless of the absence of formal contracts. Partnerships focus on shared goals, trust, and strategic alignment rather than mere documentation.



A company supplies IT equipment and buys most of its components from first-tier suppliers in the UK. It wants to analyze its supply market to develop the supply chain and is going to review the main factors that have an influence. The company wants to use the STEEPLED external environmental analysis framework to achieve the best result.
Which of the following STEEPLED factors is most likely to have the greatest effect?

  1. Sociocultural
  2. Technological
  3. Economic
  4. Ethical

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

Technological factors play a pivotal role in IT equipment supply chains. Advancements, obsolescence, and innovation significantly affect production, cost, and competitiveness, making it a primary focus in supply chain development.



Which of the following are typical examples of partnering between companies? Select the TWO that apply.

  1. Sole trader
  2. Limited company
  3. Joint venture
  4. Strategic alliance
  5. Public limited company

Answer(s): C,D

Explanation:

Joint ventures and strategic alliances are examples of partnerships as they involve collaboration between entities to achieve shared objectives. Sole traders and public limited companies describe organizational structures, not partnership types.



A local council requires facilities management services for ten schools based in their region. This service is a high-spend, high-risk, critical contract.
Which sourcing approach would be the most appropriate?

  1. Request for quotation
  2. Competitive tendering
  3. Statement of source requirements
  4. Direct negotiation

Answer(s): B

Explanation:

Competitive tendering is the most suitable approach for high-risk, high-value contracts as it ensures transparency, fairness, and the selection of the most capable supplier based on predefined criteria.



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Marial Manyang 7/26/2023 10:13:00 AM

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