Top 11 Bid Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a bid manager in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to staying up-to-date with industry trends, as well as an understanding of best practices and techniques. Having certifications can help demonstrate a manager’s knowledge and ability to make sound decisions when it comes to winning bids. Certifications also indicate that the individual has taken the time and effort to invest in their skills. This can be attractive to employers looking for someone with experience in the field who is able to hit the ground running. Additionally, having certifications can open up career opportunities that would otherwise not be available without them.

This article reviews some of the best certifications for Bid Managers and examines how they can help to advance a bid manager's career.

What are Bid Manager Certifications?

Bid Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals who manage the bidding process for their organization to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful. This certification provides an understanding of how to effectively manage bids, craft competitive bids, and develop strategies for winning contracts. It also teaches participants about the legal aspects of bid management, including contract law and negotiation techniques.

This certification helps those in bid management roles by providing a comprehensive overview of the entire bidding process from start to finish. By gaining an understanding of all the elements involved in developing a competitive bid, professionals can make informed decisions that increase their chances of success. The knowledge gained through this certification also provides valuable insights into how other organizations approach bids and what strategies they use to win contracts. Those with this certification are able to apply these learnings to their own organization’s bidding process in order to create more competitive bids that stand out from the competition. Additionally, this certification can help individuals become more confident in their ability to manage bids effectively and efficiently, helping them achieve better results for their organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a bid manager certification, make sure to research the organization providing the certification and ensure that it is accredited by a reputable institution. Additionally, look for certifications that offer continuing education credits in order to stay up-to-date on best practices and industry trends.

Related: What does a Bid Manager do?

Top 11 Bid Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Bid Managers today.

1. Certified Professional Bid Manager (CPBM)

Certified Professional Bid Manager (CPBM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of bid managers in the field. The CPBM certification is awarded by the Association for Strategic Bid Management (ASBM), an international organization dedicated to advancing best practices within the field of bid management.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in bid management or related fields, and must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as project management, proposal writing, negotiation strategies, and pricing strategies. Applicants must also agree to abide by ASBM's Code of Ethics.

The process typically takes about six months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first register online with ASBM and submit their application materials. Once accepted into the program, they will receive study materials and be able to begin preparing for their exam. After successfully passing the exam, they will receive their official certificate in the mail.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on where you live; however, most applicants can expect to pay between $500-700 USD for all associated fees including registration and exam costs.

2. Certified Government Proposal Manager (CGPM)

Certified Government Proposal Manager (CGPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of those who have demonstrated success in the management of government proposal development. It is offered by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA).

The CGPM program is a three-part process that includes an online self-assessment, a comprehensive exam, and a final review with an NCMA-certified mentor. The self-assessment assesses your knowledge of government proposal management and helps you identify areas for improvement. The comprehensive exam covers topics such as proposal strategy, writing techniques, cost analysis, and contract negotiation. Finally, the review with the mentor ensures that you understand all of the material covered in the program and can apply it to real-world situations.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all three parts of the CGPM program. To get started, you must first become an NCMA member and then register for the CGPM program. You will then be provided with access to course materials and resources needed to complete each part of the program.

The cost of becoming a Certified Government Proposal Manager depends on whether or not you are already an NCMA member. For non-members, there is an application fee plus additional fees for each part of the program. Members receive discounted rates on all parts of the program.

3. Certified Proposal Professional (CPP)

Certified Proposal Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of proposal professionals in the field of proposal management. The CPP certification is offered by the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP), a global organization dedicated to advancing the practice of proposal management.

The CPP certification requires successful completion of an online exam that covers topics such as project management, writing and editing, proposal development, and presentation skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, with a passing score of 80%. It typically takes 2-3 hours to complete the exam, depending on individual proficiency.

To obtain the CPP certification, applicants must first become members of APMP and then register for the exam. The cost for taking the exam is $450 for non-members and $350 for members. Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their CPP certificate from APMP.

4. Certified Proposal Writer (CPW)

Certified Proposal Writer (CPW) is a professional certification program designed to help proposal writers become more effective in their craft. The CPW program is offered by the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP), an international organization dedicated to improving the practice of proposal management.

The CPW program consists of three components: an online learning course, a comprehensive exam, and a one-day workshop. The online learning course covers topics such as proposal writing best practices, proposal development strategies, and proposal evaluation criteria. The comprehensive exam tests knowledge of the material covered in the online learning course. Finally, the one-day workshop provides hands-on instruction on how to create winning proposals.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CPW program from start to finish. To get started, you need to register for the APMP's Certified Proposal Writer program and pay the associated fee ($495 USD). Once registered, you will have access to all of the materials necessary for completing the program.

The cost of obtaining your Certified Proposal Writer certification is $495 USD. This fee covers all three components of the program: the online learning course, comprehensive exam, and one-day workshop.

5. Certified Sales and Marketing Professional (CSMP)

Certified Sales and Marketing Professional (CSMP) is a certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in sales and marketing.

The CSMP certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas such as customer service, sales process management, product development, market research, and digital marketing. The program also includes an extensive examination that covers topics such as pricing strategies, sales techniques, customer relationship management, and legal issues related to sales and marketing.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the CSMP certification program. To get certified, applicants must first complete an online application form. Once the application has been approved by the AMA, applicants must then pass a comprehensive exam that tests their knowledge of sales and marketing principles. The cost of the CSMP certification varies depending on factors such as location and type of exam taken; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

6. Master of Business Administration in Procurement and Contract Management (MBA-PCM)

The Master of Business Administration in Procurement and Contract Management (MBA-PCM) is a specialized degree program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the procurement and contract management field. The program focuses on developing an understanding of the principles and practices of purchasing, contract management, negotiation, risk management, supplier selection, and other related topics.

The MBA-PCM typically takes two years to complete. It consists of core courses such as accounting, finance, economics, business law, marketing and operations management. In addition to these core courses, students will take specialized courses that focus on procurement and contract management topics such as public sector contracting, international procurement law, public sector purchasing processes and strategies for managing contracts.

To get an MBA-PCM degree you must first have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. You must also meet any additional requirements set by your chosen school or university. These may include taking the GMAT or GRE exam or having relevant work experience. Once you have met all the requirements you can apply for admission into the program.

The cost of an MBA-PCM varies depending on which school you choose to attend. Generally speaking it can range anywhere from $20,000-$50,000 USD for tuition alone over two years. Additional costs may include books and supplies as well as living expenses while attending school full time.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification for project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the project management profession. PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage projects.

To become certified, individuals must have at least three years of professional project management experience and 35 hours of formal project management education. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions and takes up to four hours to complete.

To get the PMP certification, applicants must first register with PMI and pay the applicable fee. After registering, applicants must pass an online application review process before they can take the exam. The fee for the exam varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI, but typically ranges from $405-$555 USD.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants can schedule their exams through Pearson VUE testing centers around the world. It usually takes about two weeks from when you submit your application until you receive your results from PMI.

8. American Purchasing Society’s Certified Purchasing Professional (CPSP)

The Certified Purchasing Professional (CPSP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). The CPSP certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of purchasing professionals. It is aimed at helping purchasing professionals advance in their careers, increase their earning potential, and demonstrate their commitment to excellence in procurement.

To become certified as a CPSP, applicants must have at least two years of full-time purchasing experience or equivalent education and training. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as purchasing principles and practices, contract management, supplier relations, negotiation strategies, cost analysis techniques, inventory control systems, and risk management.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person at an APS approved testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you take it online or in person. The fee for taking the exam online is $200 while the fee for taking it in person is $220.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CPSP certification from APS which is valid for three years. To maintain your certification you must complete continuing education credits every three years. These credits are available through various APS approved courses or events such as webinars or conferences.

9. Association for Strategic Planning’s Certified Strategic Planner (CSP)

The Certified Strategic Planner (CSP) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Strategic Planning (ASP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced strategic planners. The CSP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their mastery of the principles, practices, and tools of effective strategic planning.

To become a Certified Strategic Planner, applicants must have at least three years of experience in strategic planning or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic visioning, goal setting, strategy development, implementation planning, and evaluation. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and case studies.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for the CSP certification. Applicants must first submit an application form along with proof of their experience in strategic planning or related fields. Once approved by ASP, they can then register for the exam and begin studying for it.

The cost to become a Certified Strategic Planner varies depending on whether you are an ASP member or not. For non-members, the cost is $495 USD; for members it is $395 USD. In addition to this fee there may be additional costs associated with taking the exam such as travel expenses and study materials.

10. Institute for Supply Management’s Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

The Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of supply management. The CPSM designation demonstrates an individual's commitment to excellence and their dedication to staying current with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in supply management.

To qualify for the CPSM designation, individuals must pass three exams that cover topics such as strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, contract law, and project management. Each exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to take the exams, applicants must first submit an application form along with their resume or CV. Once approved, applicants will be provided with access to online study materials as well as practice tests. Applicants are also encouraged to attend ISM-sponsored training courses or workshops prior to taking the exams.

The cost of obtaining the CPSM designation varies depending on whether or not you choose to attend any additional training courses or workshops. The cost of taking all three exams is $1,195 USD for ISM members ($1,395 USD for non-members). Additional fees may apply if you choose to attend any additional training courses or workshops.

Once all three exams have been passed successfully, applicants will receive their official CPSM certification from ISM and will be able to use the CPSM designation after their name on business cards and resumes.

11. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply’s Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Chain Professionals Qualification

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Chain Professionals Qualification is a professional qualification that is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge required to work in the procurement and supply chain industry. This qualification is internationally recognised, and provides a pathway for those looking to enter or progress within the field.

The qualification consists of three levels: Foundation, Professional and Expert. Each level has its own set of modules which must be completed in order to gain the qualification. The Foundation level is designed for those who are new to the industry, while the Professional and Expert levels are designed for those who have more experience in procurement and supply chain management.

The length of time it takes to complete each level depends on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying, however it typically takes around two years for each level.

In order to get the Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Chain Professionals Qualification, individuals must first register with CIPS by completing an online application form. Once registered, they will then be able to access study materials such as textbooks, e-learning resources and webinars which will help them prepare for their exams.

The cost of the qualification varies depending on which level you are studying at; however, it typically costs between £1,000 - £2,000 per module. In addition to this fee there may also be additional costs such as registration fees and exam fees which need to be taken into account when budgeting for your studies.

Do You Really Need a Bid Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a bid manager certificate depends on your career objectives and the job market you’re targeting. In certain cases, having a certificate can be beneficial in helping you land a job as a bid manager.

If you are looking to break into the field of bid management, then having a certificate can be beneficial. A certification shows employers that you have acquired specific knowledge and skills related to the field of bid management. It also demonstrates that you have taken the initiative to learn more about the industry and have taken steps to become better qualified for a job in this profession. Furthermore, having a certificate may also give potential employers assurance that you will be able to handle the tasks associated with being a successful bid manager.

On the other hand, if there is already strong competition in your local job market or if most employers don’t require certifications for their bid managers, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain one. However, if you still wish to do so, there are many online courses available which provide training in all aspects of bid management, from strategy and analysis to legal and financial considerations. By taking one of these courses and obtaining certification, you will be able to demonstrate your commitment to developing your skills as well as your dedication and willingness to learn more about the industry.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a bid manager certificate depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. However, if obtaining certification is something that interests you then there are many resources available which can help you achieve this goal.

Related: Bid Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Bid Manager Certifications

Q1: What is a Bid Manager Certification?

A1: A Bid Manager Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates knowledge and skills in the field of bid management. This certification provides recognition for those who have acquired specialized knowledge in the areas of proposal writing, budgeting, strategic planning, negotiation and contract management.

Q2: What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Bid Manager?

A2: Benefits include increased job opportunities, improved career prospects, higher salaries and stronger credibility with clients. Additionally, having a certification can help you stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or promotions.

Q3: How do I become a Certified Bid Manager?

A3: To become a certified bid manager, you will need to complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by an accredited organization. You can find more information about training programs and certifying organizations on the internet or by contacting local universities or other educational institutions.

Q4: What topics are covered in the Bid Manager Certification exam?

A4: The exam covers topics such as proposal writing; budgeting; strategic planning; negotiation; contract management; project management; risk assessment; customer service; and business development. Other topics may also be included depending on the specific certification program requirements.

Q5: What is the cost of obtaining a Bid Manager Certification?

A5: Costs vary depending on the certifying organization and type of certification program chosen. Generally speaking, costs range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to research different certification programs thoroughly before deciding which one best suits your needs.