Top 10 Business Account Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a business account manager in the job market because they demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field. They provide employers with evidence of an individual’s skill set, which can help them decide whether or not to hire them. Furthermore, certifications can also open up new job opportunities and increase the individual’s value to a potential employer. Finally, certifications give account managers tangible proof of their expertise and can be used as a bargaining chip when negotiating salary or benefits.

This article reviews the top certifications for Business Account Managers and explains how they can contribute to a business account manager's career.

What are Business Account Manager Certifications?

Business Account Manager Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to manage business accounts. This certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence in customer service and account management, which can help attract new clients and ensure existing customers remain loyal.

The certification program covers topics such as sales techniques, customer relationship management, financial analysis, marketing strategies, and legal considerations. It also focuses on developing strong communication and problem-solving skills. By completing this certification program, business account managers can demonstrate their expertise in both traditional and digital marketing methods.

Having this certification can open up many doors for job seekers looking for roles in sales or account management. Companies may prefer candidates with Business Account Manager Certification when hiring for these positions because it shows they have the experience needed to effectively manage business accounts. Furthermore, having this certification can help professionals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or negotiating raises.

Overall, Business Account Manager Certification is an invaluable tool for professionals looking to advance their career in sales or account management by demonstrating their expertise in managing business accounts. It allows them to stand out from other applicants and prove their worth to potential employers.

Pro Tip: Take the time to research and understand the various business account manager certifications available. Different certifications have different requirements, so it's important to know what you need to do in order to qualify for each one. Additionally, look for courses or training programs that can help you prepare for the certification exams.

Related: What does a Business Account Manager do?

Top 10 Business Account Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Business Account Manager (CPBAM)

Certified Professional Business Account Manager (CPBAM) is a certification program offered by the American Institute of Certified Professional Business Account Managers (AICPBAM). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage business accounts in an efficient and effective manner. CPBAM certification is recognized by employers as a sign of expertise in business account management.

The CPBAM certification process typically takes around six months to complete, depending on the individual's experience and preparation. The process involves completing an online application, passing a written exam, and participating in an interview with AICPBAM representatives. To be eligible for the CPBAM certification, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience managing business accounts.

To get certified, individuals must first submit their application along with supporting documents such as resumes, references, and proof of experience. Once approved, they must pass the written exam which covers topics such as accounting principles, financial statement analysis, budgeting and forecasting techniques, customer service strategies, and risk management practices. After passing the written exam, applicants are invited for an interview with AICPBAM representatives who assess their knowledge and skills related to business account management.

The cost of obtaining the CPBAM certification varies depending on factors such as location and membership status with AICPBAM. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 USD for non-members to become certified while members may pay slightly less due to discounted rates.

2. Certified Business Account Manager (CBAM)

Certified Business Account Manager (CBAM) is a professional certification program designed to provide business account managers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage customer relationships. CBAM is offered by the American Management Association (AMA) and is recognized by the National Association of Professional Accountants (NAPA).

The CBAM certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site examination. The online course covers topics such as customer service, sales, marketing, finance, accounting, and risk management. It takes approximately eight weeks to complete the online course. After completing the online course, candidates must pass a proctored exam in order to receive their CBAM certification.

To become certified as a CBAM, candidates must have at least three years of experience in business account management or a related field. Candidates must also have completed at least one year of college-level courses in business or accounting.

The cost of the CBAM certification program varies depending on where you take it. The AMA charges $2,495 for its program; however, other providers may charge different fees. Additionally, there may be additional fees for taking the proctored exam if it’s not included in your tuition fee.

3. Certified Financial Account Manager (CFAM)

Certified Financial Account Manager (CFAM) is a certification program created by the Institute of Certified Financial Account Managers (ICFAM). The purpose of this certification is to provide financial professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage financial accounts. This includes understanding financial regulations, managing risk, analyzing financial data, and developing strategies for long-term success.

The CFAM certification requires applicants to have at least five years of professional experience in the field of finance or accounting. Candidates must also pass an online exam that tests their knowledge and understanding of various aspects of financial management. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get certified as a CFAM, candidates must submit an application to ICFAM along with proof of their professional experience, a fee of $150 USD, and a copy of their valid ID. Once the application is approved, candidates can register for the online exam through ICFAM’s website. After passing the exam, they will receive their official certificate from ICFAM.

The cost for obtaining the CFAM certification is $150 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registering for the online exam. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with preparing for and taking the exam such as purchasing study materials or hiring an instructor to help prepare you for it.

4. Certified Business Accounting Manager (CBAM)

Certified Business Accounting Manager (CBAM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in accounting, financial management, and business operations. The CBAM certification is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of accounting from basic principles to the most advanced topics.

The CBAM certification program consists of three parts: an online exam, a written exam, and a practical assessment. The online exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as financial reporting, budgeting, cost analysis, and taxation. The written exam requires test takers to answer essay questions related to accounting principles and practices. Finally, the practical assessment requires applicants to complete a case study and present their findings in an oral presentation.

The entire CBAM certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To get started on the certification process, applicants must first submit an application packet which includes their resume, transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supporting documents. After submitting the application packet, applicants will take the online exam followed by the written exam and practical assessment.

The cost of obtaining the CBAM certification varies depending on which ICPM institution you choose to certify through. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,000 - $2,000 USD for all three parts of the certification process.

5. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). It is designed to demonstrate a mastery of financial planning, analysis, control, decision support, and professional ethics. The CMA credential is highly sought after by employers in the accounting and finance fields.

The CMA exam consists of two parts: Part 1 covers financial planning, performance, and control; and Part 2 covers financial decision-making. Each part must be completed within a three-year period. The total cost for both parts is $1,000 USD.

To become certified as a CMA, you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college and at least two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management. Additionally, you must pass both parts of the CMA exam with a score of 75% or higher.

The IMA also offers study materials to help prepare for the exam. These materials include textbooks, practice tests, online courses, and webinars. The cost for these materials can range from $100-$500 USD depending on which option you choose.

Once you have passed both parts of the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will receive your official CMA certificate from the IMA.

6. Professional Business Accountant (PBA)

Professional Business Accountant (PBA) is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in business accounting. It is awarded by the National Association of Certified Public Accountants (NACPA). To obtain the PBA designation, individuals must meet certain educational and experience requirements and pass a comprehensive exam.

The PBA credential typically takes three to four years to complete, depending on the individual’s current level of education and experience. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field from an accredited college or university, as well as two years of professional experience in business accounting.

To get started on the path to becoming a PBA, individuals should contact their local NACPA chapter for more information about the application process. The application fee is $250 and includes access to study materials and practice tests. Once accepted into the program, candidates must complete all required coursework and pass the PBA exam within five years of starting their studies.

The cost of obtaining the PBA credential varies based on each individual’s situation but can range from $2,000 to $4,000 or more depending on factors such as course fees, study materials and exam fees.

7. Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)

The Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) is an international professional designation in management accounting, offered by the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA). It is designed to recognize expertise in financial decision-making and strategic business management.

To become a CGMA, you must have a minimum of five years of experience working in a finance or accounting role. You must also pass the CGMA exam, which covers topics such as financial reporting and analysis, budgeting and forecasting, strategic planning, performance measurement and corporate finance.

In order to take the CGMA exam, you must first complete the AICPA’s online application process. This includes providing proof of your educational background and work experience. Once approved, you can register for the exam through the AICPA website. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

The CGMA exam is divided into two parts: Part 1 is a multiple-choice test that takes approximately three hours to complete; Part 2 is an essay-based portion that takes approximately four hours to complete. Both parts are offered twice per year at various locations around the world. Once you have successfully passed both parts of the exam, you will be awarded your CGMA designation and will receive a certificate from AICPA confirming your status as a Chartered Global Management Accountant.

8. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation given to an individual who has met the education, experience, and examination requirements of the state in which they are licensed. CPAs are responsible for providing a wide range of accounting services including financial statement preparation, tax planning and compliance, auditing, consulting, and other related services.

To become a CPA in the United States, candidates must meet specific educational requirements set by their state board of accountancy. Generally speaking, these requirements include:

1. Completion of 150 semester hours of college-level coursework

2. Passing the Uniform CPA Examination

3. Completion of one year or more of full-time professional accounting experience

4. Meeting any additional state-specific requirements (e.g., ethics exam).

The amount of time it takes to become a CPA depends on each individual’s educational background and work experience. However, most states require that candidates complete all four steps listed above within three years to be eligible for licensure as a CPA.

The cost to become a CPA varies from state to state but generally includes fees for application processing, exam registration and review courses (if applicable). Additionally, some states may require applicants to pay additional fees for licensing or continuing education courses. It is important to research your specific state’s requirements before beginning the process as costs can vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another.

9. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is the most widely recognized certification for internal auditors and demonstrates an individual’s commitment to the profession. The CIA designation is a mark of distinction that sets you apart as an internal audit professional who has achieved a high level of expertise in the field.

To become certified, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of two years of experience in internal auditing or related fields and passing an exam administered by the IIA. The exam consists of three parts: Part 1 – Internal Audit Basics; Part 2 – Practice of Internal Auditing; and Part 3 – Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing.

The cost to take the CIA exam varies depending on which country you are taking it in, but typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD per part. Additionally, there is an annual fee of approximately $100 USD to maintain your certification status.

In order to get certified, candidates must pass all three parts of the exam within 18 months and complete at least 20 hours of continuing education every year. Once you have passed all three parts and met all other requirements, you will receive your Certified Internal Auditor designation from the IIA.

10. Accounting Technicians Certificate in Business Accounting (ATCBA).

The Accounting Technicians Certificate in Business Accounting (ATCBA) is a professional qualification offered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW). It is designed to give individuals with an interest in business accounting the skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively as an accountant.

The ATCBA consists of six modules, which cover topics such as financial accounting, management accounting, taxation and audit. The modules are assessed through multiple choice exams and practical assignments. The course takes around two years to complete, although this can vary depending on the individual's experience and study commitments.

To get the ATCBA, you must first register with ICAEW and pay a registration fee. You will then be required to complete all six modules within two years. Once you have completed the course, you will receive your certificate from ICAEW upon successful completion of all assessments.

The cost of the ATCBA depends on several factors including whether you are studying full-time or part-time, where you are studying and how many modules you choose to take at once. Typically, it will cost around £2,000 for the full course.

Do You Really Need a Business Account Manager Certificate?

A business account manager certificate is not a requirement for success in the field. However, it can be beneficial to have one if you want to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge in the area. It may also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

Having a business account manager certificate will show employers that you are serious about your career and that you have taken steps to be an expert in the field. The certificate may also provide you with access to certain resources, such as training materials and industry contacts, which can be invaluable tools for advancing your career.

On the other hand, having a business account manager certificate does not guarantee success in the field. Experience and strong interpersonal skills are just as important as any certification when it comes to being successful in this profession. You should also make sure that the program or institution offering the certification is reputable and has a good track record of helping its graduates find employment or advance their careers.

In conclusion, it is up to you to decide if obtaining a business account manager certificate is worth the time and effort. While it may help open some doors for you, possessing an aptitude for customer service, understanding of financial principles, and excellent communication skills will ultimately determine your success in this field.

Related: Business Account Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Account Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Business Account Manager Certification?

A1. A Business Account Manager Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates the holder's knowledge and skills in managing business accounts with a focus on customer service, sales, marketing and financial management.

Q2. How do I become certified?

A2. To become certified, you will need to pass an exam or complete a training program approved by the certifying organization. You may also need to meet certain educational or experience requirements in order to qualify for the certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of getting a Business Account Manager Certification?

A3. Benefits of getting a Business Account Manager Certification include increased job opportunities, higher earning potential, improved customer relations, better management skills and more respect from colleagues and employers.

Q4. How long does it take to get a Business Account Manager Certification?

A4. The amount of time it takes to get a Business Account Manager Certification varies depending on the certifying organization and type of training program or exam you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, it can take several months to complete all necessary requirements for certification.

Q5. Is there an age limit for obtaining a Business Account Manager Certification?

A5. Most certifying organizations do not have an age limit for obtaining a Business Account Manager Certification; however, some may require applicants to be at least 18 years old prior to taking their exams or completing their training programs.