IMPA is the leading association for marine purchasing and supply professionals. The Association was formed in 1978 by a group of senior purchasing executives who wanted to create an industry voice to represent the interests of the purchasing profession within shipping, and promote close co-operation and understanding between buyer and supplier. Over the past 30 years, the Association has grown significantly and now represents close to 1000 members from across the world. Ship owners, operators and managers account for full and corporate members (purchasers) and manufacturers and ship suppliers make up associate members (suppliers). IMPA is run by a council of senior level professionals from both the supply and the purchasing side, who is responsible for directing the duties of the secretariat and formulating the strategy for the Association. The day-to-day operation of the Association is run by a contracted administration office based 50 miles east of the city of London, represented by Stephen Alexander, IMPA Secretary General & COO. IMPA's mission is to promote and facilitate co-operation and understanding between purchasers and suppliers in the global maritime business. The Association aims to create, develop and support standards within the industry in order to provide value to our members, and to enhance and promote marine purchasing in all its forms in order to increase the status of the Association’s members.