When newcomers arrive in Canada with strong professional backgrounds, many expect a smooth transition into the workforce. Yet the reality is often very different, especially in specialized fields like procurement and supply chain.
This was the case for Dara Olubi, a procurement professional from Nigeria whose story reflects the challenges — and the transformation — many internationally trained professionals experience.
A New Country, Familiar Skills… But Unexpected Barriers
Before moving to Canada, Dara built her career in procurement. She understood sourcing, purchasing, vendor management, and negotiation. But upon arrival, she discovered that:
The Canadian job market used different language and terminology
Employers expected Canadian-recognized training or certifications
Her experience didn’t clearly translate on resumes or during interviews
She lacked the confidence needed to advocate for her skills
Like many skilled newcomers, she found herself capable — but not visible.
That’s when she turned to the ASCM Procurement Certificate Study Group for structure, clarity, and support.
Finding the Right Bridge: ASCM Procurement Certificate Study Group
Dara needed more than theory — she needed:
A recognized Canadian credential
A structured way to understand procurement concepts in the Canadian context
Practical examples and discussions
A supportive environment where she could ask questions and rebuild confidence
The study group provided exactly that.
“I wanted something structured, recognized, and practical — something that could help me understand procurement from a Canadian perspective. The study group did exactly that.”
Through weekly live sessions, quizzes, real-life case discussions, and mentorship, Dara gained clarity on procurement terminology, processes, and the differences between purchasing and procurement — a distinction that reshaped how she positioned her prior experience.
Rebuilding Confidence — and Momentum
The moment things shifted was when the practice quizzes and instructor guidance helped her connect her Nigerian experience to Canadian expectations.
The concepts became easy to understand. It helped me realize that much of my experience was actually in purchasing — and that clarity gave me back the confidence I was missing.”
With her certificate earned and her new understanding solidified, Dara was finally ready to apply for major roles such as:
Buyer
Procurement Analyst
Procurement Officer
Supply Chain Coordinator
Armed with new credibility — and a Canadian-recognized credential — she began getting traction.
A Path for Newcomers and Career Changers
Dara is now established in her procurement role, and her message to others is clear:
If you’re a newcomer or someone transitioning into procurement in Canada, I highly recommend this study group. It truly works, and the support is there every step of the way.”
Her journey shows what’s possible when skill meets structure, and when internationally trained talent receives the right guidance and validation.
Your Procurement Career Can Start Here
The Winter 2026 ASCM Procurement Certificate Cohorts are now open for enrollment — and they are designed for:
Newcomers integrating into the Canadian job market
Business professionals transitioning into procurement or supply chain
Recent supply chain graduates seeking practical foundations
Internationally trained professionals needing a Canadian-recognized credential
Job seekers wanting confidence, clarity, and support
You’ll gain:
A structured, instructor-led study experience
Practice quizzes, case studies, and mock interviews
A globally recognized ASCM Certificate
A clearer understanding of procurement roles, tools, and expectations
A supportive community through Cerial Project Services & The Supply Chain School
🔗 Enroll here: www.supplychainsschool.com
Just like Dara, your next career chapter can begin with one step — and the right support system.
