Top 10 Commercial Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a commercial manager in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform well in the position. Certifications also provide employers with evidence that a candidate has made an effort to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, which is essential for success in this field. Additionally, certifications can help a commercial manager stand out from other applicants and give them an edge when applying for positions. Ultimately, certifications can be beneficial for a commercial manager’s career prospects by providing employers with assurance that they have what it takes to excel in the role.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Commercial Managers and explains how they can help boost a commercial manager's career.

What are Commercial Manager Certifications?

Commercial Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge needed to work in commercial management roles within organizations. This comprehensive certification program covers a wide range of topics, including financial analysis, strategic planning, operations management, marketing, customer service, sales and more. By earning a Commercial Manager Certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in these core areas and show potential employers that they are well-prepared for the demands of a commercial manager role.

The benefits of obtaining Commercial Manager Certification include increased job opportunities and higher salaries. With the certification, employers know that an individual has obtained specialized training and knowledge in the field of commercial management. Having this certification also gives individuals an edge over other job seekers who may not have specialized training or experience in the area. Additionally, having this certification can open up new career paths in different industries or even provide access to higher levels of responsibility within existing organizations. Finally, with this certification employers will be able to trust that an individual is capable of making informed decisions and providing sound guidance when it comes to business operations.

Pro Tip: When considering a commercial manager certification program, make sure to research the qualifications of the instructors and the accreditation of the program. Also, look for programs that offer hands-on experience and real-world scenarios to help you get a better understanding of the industry.

Related: What does a Commercial Manager do?

Top 10 Commercial Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Commercial Manager (CPCM)

Certified Professional Commercial Manager (CPCM) is a certification that recognizes and validates the expertise of commercial professionals in the field of contract management. This certification is offered by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). The CPCM credential is designed to demonstrate a mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform as an effective commercial manager.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include having at least three years of professional experience in the field of contract management or related areas, such as procurement or supply chain management; passing a written exam; and completing continuing education credits.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. It covers topics such as legal considerations, contract administration, negotiation strategies, risk management, and cost analysis.

The cost for taking the exam is $400 for NCMA members and $500 for non-members. In addition to this fee, there are also fees associated with applying for the certification ($50 for members/$100 for non-members), renewing it every three years ($50 for members/$100 for non-members), and recertifying it every five years ($75 for members/$125 for non-members).

Overall, obtaining the CPCM credential requires commitment and dedication but can be well worth it in terms of career advancement opportunities.

2. Certified Commercial Manager (CCM)

Certified Commercial Manager (CCM) is a professional designation awarded by the International Association of Contract and Commercial Management (IACCM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and experience in the field of commercial management. The CCM certification is based on a rigorous assessment process that includes both theoretical and practical elements.

The CCM certification process typically takes around 12 months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as contract law, negotiation strategies, risk management, and dispute resolution. This exam is followed by a practical assessment which requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Once all requirements are met, successful candidates will receive their CCM certification.

To get started, interested individuals must register with IACCM and pay the associated fees. The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the country in which you reside, but generally ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 USD.

3. Certified International Commercial Manager (CICM)

Certified International Commercial Manager (CICM) is an internationally recognized professional qualification that provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of international commercial management. It is designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage international business operations.

The CICM qualification typically takes between 18 months and 2 years to complete, depending on the individual's prior experience and qualifications. The program consists of four modules: International Business Environment, International Trade Law, International Supply Chain Management, and International Finance & Risk Management. Each module is assessed through a combination of written examinations and practical assignments.

To obtain the CICM qualification, individuals must first become members of the Chartered Institute of Commercial Managers (CICM). Membership requires applicants to have at least five years’ experience in international business or related fields, as well as a relevant degree or professional qualification. Once accepted into membership, individuals can then register for the CICM program with their chosen provider.

The cost of obtaining the CICM qualification varies depending on the provider chosen; however, it typically costs around £3,000-£4,000 in total for all four modules.

4. Certified Global Commercial Manager (CGCM)

Certified Global Commercial Manager (CGCM) is an advanced certification for professionals who have experience in international business and global trade. It is designed to recognize individuals who have a comprehensive understanding of the global commercial environment, including the legal, economic, financial, and political aspects of international trade.

The CGCM program is offered by the Global Institute of Logistics (GIL). To become certified, applicants must complete a three-day course that covers topics such as international trade regulations, customs compliance, risk management, and global logistics. Applicants must also pass a written exam to demonstrate their knowledge and skills. The cost of the course and exam vary depending on location but typically range from $1,500 - $2,000 USD.

Once applicants have successfully completed the course and passed the exam they can apply for CGCM certification. Once approved by GIL, applicants will receive a certificate that is valid for three years. After three years they must renew their certification by completing additional courses or attending refresher seminars.

Overall, becoming a Certified Global Commercial Manager requires dedication and commitment to learning about global trade and its associated regulations. However, it can be an invaluable asset for those looking to advance their career in international business or global trade.

5. Chartered Institute of Marketing Professional Diploma in Commercial Management

The Chartered Institute of Marketing Professional Diploma in Commercial Management is a highly sought-after qualification designed to equip marketing professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their field. It is an internationally recognised professional qualification that provides a comprehensive understanding of commercial management, including topics such as strategic planning, customer relationship management, digital marketing and market research.

The Professional Diploma in Commercial Management takes approximately one year to complete and consists of four modules: Introduction to Commercial Management; Strategic Planning; Customer Relationship Management; and Digital Marketing. The course is delivered through a combination of online learning materials, face-to-face workshops and assessments.

To become eligible for the Professional Diploma in Commercial Management, applicants must have at least two years’ experience in marketing or sales roles. They must also demonstrate that they have achieved a minimum level of academic achievement (typically a 2:1 degree).

The cost of the Chartered Institute of Marketing Professional Diploma in Commercial Management varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from £2,000 - £3,500.

6. Association of International Product Marketing and Management Certification in Commercial Management

The Association of International Product Marketing and Management Certification in Commercial Management (AIPMM) is a professional certification program designed to provide commercial managers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage products in international markets. The AIPMM certification is recognized globally as a mark of excellence for those working in product marketing and management.

The AIPMM certification process typically takes about three months to complete, depending on how quickly you can complete the required coursework. To obtain the certification, you must first complete an online application form and submit it along with proof of your educational background. Once accepted into the program, you will be required to take a series of courses covering topics such as product marketing, market research, pricing strategies, global distribution channels, and more. Upon successful completion of all course requirements, you will receive your AIPMM certification.

The cost of obtaining the AIPMM certification varies depending on which courses you choose to take and how many credits you need to earn for completion. Generally speaking, the total cost ranges from $1,500 USD to $2,000 USD.

7. American Purchasing Society's Certified Professional Purchasing Manager

The Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM) is a professional certification offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). The CPPM certification is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of purchasing professionals. It provides a comprehensive assessment of an individual's ability to manage the procurement process in an effective and efficient manner.

It typically takes between two and six months to complete the CPPM certification program. To get started, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having at least three years of purchasing experience or a bachelor’s degree in supply chain management or related field. Once these criteria are met, applicants can register for the CPPM exam through APS’s website.

The cost of taking the CPPM exam is $295 for members of APS and $395 for non-members. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as procurement processes, contract law, negotiation strategies, supplier management, and international trade regulations. Applicants have three hours to complete the exam.

Once applicants pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher, they will receive their official CPPM certificate from APS. This certificate is valid for five years after which point individuals must retake and pass the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

8. Institute of Business Administration's Executive Certificate in Commercial Management

The Institute of Business Administration's Executive Certificate in Commercial Management is an online program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the commercial management field. The program consists of four modules that cover topics such as financial analysis, marketing, customer service, and supply chain management. It takes approximately three months to complete the program, depending on the student’s availability and commitment.

To get the Executive Certificate in Commercial Management, students must complete all four modules within a three-month period. Each module is broken down into multiple lessons and activities that are designed to help students develop their understanding of commercial management principles. Upon completion of all four modules, students will receive a certificate from IBA attesting to their successful completion of the program.

The cost for completing the Executive Certificate in Commercial Management varies depending on whether or not you are an IBA member. For non-members, the cost is $1,200 USD while members pay only $800 USD.

9. Project Management Institute's Professional Certificate in Commercial Management

The Project Management Institute’s Professional Certificate in Commercial Management is a comprehensive program designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage commercial activities within their organizations. It is an online course that can be completed in as little as 8 weeks, depending on the individual’s availability and commitment.

The program covers topics such as contract management, procurement, risk management, negotiation strategies, and project financial management. It also includes interactive exercises and case studies to provide students with real-world experience. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate from PMI that recognizes their achievement.

To get the Professional Certificate in Commercial Management, individuals must first register for the course on the PMI website. Once registered, they will have access to all the materials required for completion of the program. The cost of registration is $1,495 USD plus applicable taxes.

Once registered for the course, individuals are expected to complete all modules within 8 weeks from start date. During this time period they will have access to an instructor who can provide support and guidance throughout their learning journey. Upon successful completion of all modules and assessments within 8 weeks, participants will receive their Professional Certificate in Commercial Management from PMI.

10. International Trade Council's Certified International Trade Professional

The Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) is a professional designation offered by the International Trade Council (ITC). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of expertise in the field of international trade. The CITP certification is designed to provide recognition and credibility for those working in this field, as well as provide employers with assurance that their employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage international trade.

To become certified as an International Trade Professional, applicants must meet certain requirements. These include having at least five years of experience in international trade, passing an exam administered by ITC, and completing a minimum of 25 hours of continuing education related to international trade.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as global economics, finance, logistics, marketing, risk management, and customs regulations. The exam is administered online and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to obtain the CITP designation, applicants must pay a fee which covers the cost of the exam and any applicable administrative fees. The current fee for taking the exam is $350 USD.

Do You Really Need a Commercial Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Commercial Manager Certificate depends on your goals and the requirements of the job you’re seeking. A Commercial Manager Certificate is a professional credential that demonstrates specialized knowledge in business operations, management principles, and financial processes. It provides employers with assurance that you have the necessary skills to succeed in a commercial setting.

For those who are interested in pursuing a career in commercial management, having a Commercial Manager Certificate can be beneficial. Employers often prefer to hire candidates with this type of certification because it indicates that they possess the skills and knowledge required for success in this field. Additionally, having a Commercial Manager Certificate may give you an edge over other applicants when applying for positions at larger companies or organizations.

In some cases, having a Commercial Manager Certificate may be necessary for certain job roles. For example, many companies require this type of certification before hiring someone as an Executive Director or Chief Financial Officer.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Commercial Manager Certificate depends upon your goals and the requirements of the positions you are applying for. If it is necessary for your desired role or if it would give you an advantage over other applicants, then obtaining one may be worthwhile investment in your future career.

Related: Commercial Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Commercial Manager Certifications

1. What is a Commercial Manager Certification?

Answer: A Commercial Manager Certification is a qualification which demonstrates that an individual has the skills and knowledge to manage commercial activities within an organization. It is gained through completing a training program or similar course of study, and is designed to give individuals the skills necessary to perform key functions in the business world, such as strategic planning, financial management, marketing, and risk management.

2. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Commercial Manager?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Commercial Manager can help you advance your career in the business world by providing you with the necessary skills and knowledge to understand how businesses operate and how to make decisions that will benefit the organization. Additionally, it can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and access to resources that can help you reach your goals.

3. How do I become certified as a Commercial Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Commercial Manager you must complete a training program or course of study related to commercial management. This could involve taking classes at an accredited college or university, or attending seminars and workshops offered by professional organizations such as The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). You may also be required to pass an examination in order to receive certification.

4. How long does it take to complete a certification program?

Answer: The length of time needed to complete a certification program varies depending on which type of program you choose and how much time you have available for study. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within six months if studied full-time; however, some programs may take longer depending on the amount of material covered and the level of difficulty involved in passing exams.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Commercial Manager?

Answer: Yes, some certification programs may require applicants to have certain qualifications such as having completed specific courses or having prior work experience in commercial management before they can apply for certification. Additionally, many programs require applicants to pass an exam in order to receive their certification so it is important for individuals interested in becoming certified to review all prerequisites before enrolling in any program.