The most recent event in the British International Freight Association’s (BIFA) programme of activities for its Young Forwarder Network (YFN) was the first to be accredited for continuing professional development (CPD).
BIFA member services director, Carl Hobbis, who has management responsibility for the trade association’s training and development services and had a key role in the creation of the YFN in 2019, said: “CPD is the term used to describe the learning activities in which professionals engage to develop and enhance their abilities. There is an increasing expectation and desire from BIFA members and their employees to undertake CPD regardless of career level, job role and responsibilities.”
Since YFN formation, there have been more than 125 events ranging from the educational, such as presentations on specific aspects of the freight and logistics industry. “Our ambition has always been to add a professional touch by fitting some of them to the CPD structure and guidelines, including specific learning objectives,” said Hobbis. “This means that BIFA can now display the certified CPD logo on all approved events and CPD attendance certificates can be issued to delegates for their own CPD purposes.”
He hopes this accreditation will incentivise BIFA members to encourage more of their younger staff to participate in the YFN.
At YFN’s most recent event, guest speaker PC Matthew Bate gave a presentation to YFN members about how the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) is working with the logistics community to combat international vehicle crime.