ISM-Akron, Inc.

A Chapter of the Institute for Supply Management working together to advance the profession of supply management.

Akron's Leading Supply Chain Management Professionals

ISM—Akron, Inc. is a local chapter of Institute for Supply Management®.

ISM—Akron was established in 1922 and has members from businesses throughout Summit, Stark, Portage, and Cuyahoga counties. It is our goal to make ISM—Akron, Inc. the premiere supply professional organization in Northeast Ohio. It is our mission to educate, serve, and develop our members so that they will continue to provide value, opportunity, and cost reduction for the local business interests they represent. By working hand-in-hand with local universities and businesses, we hope to discover needs, recognize future opportunities for growth and service to build on the value of our Supply Management profession.

 

Upcoming Events

May

14

2026

MEMBER WEBINAR
Member Only

Member Orientation

This webinar provides knowledge regarding the many benefits that come with being a part of the ISM community. Join us and learn about the essential tools, vibrant community, and exceptional learning that enhances your professional development. You'll also gain insight into the array of programs, services, and resources that are available to you through your membership.

Online
Megan Hays
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May

28

2026

MEMBER WEBINAR
Member Only

Why Negotiation Outperforms Competitive Bidding - The Data-Backed Case

Discover why negotiation outperforms traditional bidding—and how you can apply it today.

In this dynamic session, you’ll learn:

  • The Evidence: Grounded in peer-reviewed research, see how negotiation consistently drives more value, innovation, and speed compared to competitive bidding.
  • The Framework: Explore the SMARTnership and NegoEconomics models—proven approaches that can unlock up to 42% additional value in procurement agreements.
  • Immediate Application: Walk away with practical tools and strategies to shift from lowest-price wins to trust-based, collaborative negotiations that benefit all stakeholders.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your procurement approach and deliver measurable impact.

    • Online
    Register Now

    June

    11

    2026

    MEMBER WEBINAR
    Member Only

    ISM Member Community Speed Networking

    Are you ready to expand your network and make meaningful connections? Our virtual speed networking event is the perfect opportunity to meet new people within our growing membership community. In just one hour, you'll have the chance to engage in dynamic, one-on-one conversations with fellow members, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Whether you're looking to collaborate, share insights, or simply make new friends, this is your networking power hour!

    Don't miss out on this fun and interactive experience. Come prepared to connect, converse, and create lasting connections.

    Online
    Register Now
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    Supply Management News & Reports

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    ‘Ascend’ to New Heights in Strategic Supply Chain Management

    March 10, 2026
    Articles


    Sessions on trending topics like AI deployment, application and governance as well as networking opportunities and a keynote by Kara Swisher highlight ISM World 2026 in Denver.

    Read More
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    Join ISM

    Your membership in ISM will provide a powerful path to stay connected, engaged, and up-to-date with everything happening in supply management. Serious procurement and supply chain professionals are dedicated to staying in the know about their profession and staying at the top of their game. An ISM membership will provide you with that and more.

    More than 100 years of experience speaks for itself – ISM can help you succeed. It's our mission.

    Become A Member

    Learn from the Creator of AIM & DRIVE

    As supply chain leaders face increasing pressure to deliver measurable value, the need to combine structured cost strategy with digital capability has never been greater. Closing that gap requires both a proven process and the right technology.

    Through ISM's Total Cost Solution class, taught live by Jimmy Anklesaria, ISM members gain direct access to the AIM & DRIVE? process and a complimentary 30 day AIMDRIVE-AI trial subscription. Participants leave with both the strategic framework and the digital platform needed to strengthen cost insight, improve supplier conversations, and drive sustainable savings.

    Learn More

    ISM-Akron Inc.

    Akron, Ohio
    napm.ismakron@gmail.com
    Institute for Supply Management
    We advance the strategy and practice of integrated, end-to-end supply chain management through leading edge data-driven resources, community, and education to empower individuals, create organizational value and drive competitive advantage.
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