Peoria – Peoria County’s Purchasing Agent Jim Smith was named Professional Buyer of the Year by the Illinois Association of Public Procurement Officials (IAPPO) for the second consecutive year. The Professional Buyer of the Year Award is given to an individual who demonstrates outstanding professionalism, contributes significantly to the field of public purchasing throughout the year, promotes professional development, and is committed to the advancement of the purchasing profession.

In addition, Smith was recently notified by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC) that he has earned the Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) credential. This prestigious certification is an outstanding honor for individuals employed in the public procurement profession and is an asset to their specific division of governmental administration.

To become certified as a CPPO, candidates must demonstrate through an application process that they meet certain requisites established by the UPPCC, including formal education, procurement related coursework and training, public purchasing experience, and functional management experience. A comprehensive written exam is required to confirm the candidate’s mastery of the knowledge for public procurement professionals.

Jim Smith has been with Peoria County for 20 years; the last six as the County’s purchasing agent. He is responsible for implementing the County’s Purchasing Ordinance and facilitating all bids and Requests for Proposals administered by Peoria County. Smith is a member of the IAPPO and the National Institute for Public Procurement.