Sustainable Trade Practitioner (STP)

For professionals with a minimum of 3-5 years real-world experience in International Trade

The Sustainable Trade Practitioner (STP) membership level is for individual contributors working directly for, or providing services to, international trading companies across a broad range of job functions. STPs are team players who work collaboratively to ensure standard operating procedures are implemented and KPIs are delivered. STPs play a vital role in ensuring the smooth running of international trade and supply chain operations and in helping their organisations achieve their sustainability goals.

Entry Requirements:

  • Minimum Requirements

Applicants for the Sustainable Trade Practitioner (STP) membership level of the IST are expected to meet the following entry requirements.

  • NFQ Level 7 Qualification or equivalent + 3 Years’ Experience in International Trade and/or Sustainability.

OR

  • NFQ Level 6 Qualification or equivalent + 5 Years’ Experience in International Trade and/or Sustainability.

To check where your Irish or international qualifications fit on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), click here.

Individuals who do not meet the minimum educational requirements but believe they have achieved equivalent levels of learning and experience have the option to apply for IST membership via a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application process. Click here to download the application form. 

Certified Professional STP Qualification

Applicants who meet the minimum entry requirements for the STP membership level join the IST as an Affiliate member. To become a full Certified STP member, a suite of learning modules and examinations must be taken in the first year of membership. Individuals who pass the STP exams will receive formal certification from the IST. To learn more about certified IST membership, click here.

An alternative route to IST membership: Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Applicants who do not meet the minimum education requirements for the desired IST membership but who can provide evidence of equivalent learning or work experience can submit a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) application. The RPL application will be assessed by the IST Standards Committee. A copy of the RPL form can be downloaded here and should be emailed with supporting documents to training@instituteofsustainabletrade.ie.

Annual CPD

Minimum 10 CPD hours within 12 months of joining the IST / renewing membership. Click here to learn more. 

For Year 1 of membership, CPD hours are attained by completing the Certified Membership modules and exams.

Fees

The annual membership fee for Sustainable Trade Practitioners (STPs) is €295.

Additional exam fees apply in year 1 of membership for those seeking Certified STP membership.