Top 10 Export Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for export managers in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has a certain level of knowledge and experience, as well as a commitment to professional development. Certified export managers demonstrate their ability to stay up-to-date on industry trends, regulations, and best practices. This helps employers know that they can trust the export manager to handle global trade operations with skill and diligence. Certifications also give employers assurance that their export manager is capable of making sound decisions when it comes to international business transactions. Additionally, certifications help an export manager stand out from other applicants in the job market by showing a higher level of expertise and commitment to their profession.

This article reviews and explains the value of some of the top certifications for Export Managers, providing insight into how they can enhance an export manager's career.

What are Export Manager Certifications?

Export Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals and organizations with the skills, knowledge and expertise required to successfully manage international trade operations. The program provides an in-depth understanding of global markets, export regulations, logistics, finance and business development strategies. Through this certification, individuals can learn how to effectively manage the complexities of international trade operations and gain the necessary competencies needed to succeed in today's competitive global marketplace.

The Export Manager Certification program covers a wide range of topics including international market research, export regulations, trade finance, contracts and agreements, customs clearance procedures and more. It also provides practical guidance on how to identify potential markets for international expansion, develop export strategies and prepare documents for successful transactions. Additionally, it offers insights into best practices for managing an export operation from start to finish.

By completing this certification program, individuals will be better equipped to handle challenging tasks such as forecasting export trends, negotiating contracts with foreign customers or suppliers and ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations. This certification can help professionals become more attractive candidates for positions in import/export companies as well as other businesses that require specialized knowledge in international trade operations. Furthermore, it can also help organizations ensure their employees have up-to-date knowledge when it comes to managing their international trading activities.

Pro Tip: When considering an Export Manager Certification, make sure to research the program and its requirements thoroughly. Ensure that the certification is accredited by a reputable organization and that it offers quality instruction in export regulations and international trade practices. Additionally, look into the cost of certification and whether it includes any additional resources or benefits.

Related: What does an Export Manager do?

Top 10 Export Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Export Manager (CEM)

Certified Export Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in the area of international trade.

The CEM program requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as international trade regulations, export documentation requirements, export financing, shipping and logistics, customs compliance and export marketing. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and must be taken at an approved testing center. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete.

To obtain the CEM certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of experience in international trade or related fields. In addition, applicants must submit their application form along with a fee of $250 USD for NCBFAA members or $300 USD for non-members. Once all requirements are met and the application is approved, applicants may then take the exam at an approved testing center.

Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their CEM certification from NCBFAA which is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years have passed, applicants must renew their certification by taking a renewal exam or completing additional education courses.

2. Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)

Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of international trade practices. The CITP designation is awarded by the Forum for International Trade Training (FITT), an independent, not-for-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of global trade.

To become a CITP, applicants must have at least five years of relevant work experience and pass an exam that covers topics such as international trade law, customs regulations, export documentation, international marketing and finance. Applicants must also complete at least three FITT-approved courses in international trade. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken in person or online.

The cost of obtaining the CITP designation varies depending on the number of FITT courses taken and whether or not you are a member of FITT. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,000 and $2,000 USD to obtain the designation.

3. Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP)

Certified Global Business Professional (CGBP) is a certification that recognizes professionals who have the knowledge and skills to manage global business operations. It is offered by the National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE).

The CGBP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their expertise in four core competency areas: global business management, international marketing, international finance, and trade logistics. To earn the certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers these topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes 3 hours to complete.

To get the CGBP certification, applicants must first complete an online application. After submitting their application, they will be asked to pay a fee of $395 USD. Once payment has been received, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. They can then choose a date and time to take the exam at one of NASBITE's approved testing centers.

Once applicants have passed the exam, they will receive their CGBP certificate within 6-8 weeks from NASBITE. The certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by retaking the exam or completing continuing education credits.

4. Certified International Trade Manager (CITM)

Certified International Trade Manager (CITM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage international trade operations. It is offered by the Institute of Certified International Trade Professionals (ICITP).

The CITM program consists of three levels: Level 1 for basic knowledge, Level 2 for intermediate knowledge, and Level 3 for advanced knowledge. Each level requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as international finance, business law, global logistics, and customs regulations.

It typically takes around three months to complete all three levels of the CITM program. To get started, applicants must register with ICITP and pay a fee of $395 USD. This fee covers the cost of registration and access to study materials. After registering, applicants can begin studying for their exams at their own pace. Once they have successfully completed all three exams, they will receive their CITM certification.

The cost of the CITM program varies depending on how many levels are taken. For example, if an individual only takes one level it would cost $395 USD; however, if they take all three levels it would cost $1125 USD in total.

5. Certified International Trade Compliance Officer (CITCO)

Certified International Trade Compliance Officer (CITCO) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the field of international trade compliance. This certification is offered by the Global Trade Compliance Association (GTCA), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of international trade compliance.

The CITCO program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as export control regulations, customs regulations, sanctions and embargoes, free trade agreements, and anti-corruption laws. The practical assessment includes case studies and simulations that test the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the CITCO program depending on how much time you have available for studying and preparing for the exams. There are no prerequisites for taking the CITCO exam; however, it is recommended that candidates have at least three years of experience working in international trade compliance or related fields.

The cost of taking the CITCO exam varies depending on where you take it; however, most locations charge between $500-$1,000 USD for both parts of the exam.

In order to become certified as a CITCO, candidates must pass both parts of the exam with a minimum score of 70%. Upon successful completion of all requirements, candidates will receive a certificate from GTCA certifying them as Certified International Trade Compliance Officers.

6. Certified Export Strategist (CES)

Certified Export Strategist (CES) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Small Business International Trade Educators (NASBITE). The program is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who are involved in international trade. It is intended to provide an objective measure of proficiency in the field of international trade.

The CES certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as global marketing, export regulations, logistics, finance, and business operations. The practical assessment evaluates the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the entire certification process. To get started on the path to becoming a Certified Export Strategist, you must first submit an application form with supporting documents such as transcripts or diplomas from relevant courses or programs. After submitting your application, you will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the written exam. Once you pass the written exam, you will be eligible for the practical assessment portion of the program.

The cost of becoming a Certified Export Strategist varies depending on where you take your exams and assessments. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 - $2,000 USD depending on which country you are taking them in and what type of materials or services are included in your package.

7. Certified International Trade Logistics Manager (CITLM)

Certified International Trade Logistics Manager (CITLM) is a certification program offered by the International Trade Logistics Institute (ITLI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in international trade logistics. The certification demonstrates that the individual has knowledge and experience in managing global supply chains, including understanding customs regulations, international shipping procedures, and other related topics.

The CITLM program consists of two parts: an online self-study course and an online exam. The self-study course covers topics such as global economics, international trade regulations, customs clearance procedures, and more. The online exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of these topics.

It typically takes 4-6 months to complete the CITLM program. Candidates must complete the self-study course before they can take the exam. Once they pass the exam, they will receive their official CITLM certificate from ITLI.

The cost of obtaining the CITLM certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of ITLI. For non-members, it costs $1,495 USD for the self-study course and $395 USD for the exam fee. For ITLI members, it costs $795 USD for the self-study course and $295 USD for the exam fee.

8. Certified Export Administrator (CEA)

Certified Export Administrator (CEA) is a professional certification offered by the National Customs Brokers & Forwarders Association of America (NCBFAA). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in international trade, export compliance, and logistics. The CEA credential is recognized by many industry organizations as well as government agencies.

The CEA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as export regulations, customs procedures, international shipping and transportation, export documentation, and other related areas. Candidates must have at least three years of experience in the field or a degree from an accredited college or university in order to be eligible for the exam.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CEA program. During this time, candidates must complete an online course that covers all aspects of international trade and export compliance. They must also pass the CEA exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Export Administrator credential depends on several factors including the type of course taken and any additional materials purchased. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD depending on the provider chosen.

9. Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP)

Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP) is a professional certification awarded by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). The CGSCP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in global supply chain management. It is intended for those who want to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in this field.

The CGSCP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as global supply chain strategy, planning, execution, and control. Applicants must also have at least five years of experience in the field or a related area. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get the CGSCP certification, applicants must first register with APICS and pay the registration fee. After registering, they will be given access to study materials and practice exams that can help them prepare for the exam. Once they feel ready to take the exam, they can schedule it through APICS’s online system.

The cost of the CGSCP certification varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For non-members, the cost is $695 USD; for members, it is $595 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees for scheduling an exam or for rescheduling an exam if needed.

10. Certified Customs Specialist (CCS)

Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) is a designation given to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of the customs regulations and procedures in Canada. It is awarded by the Canadian Society of Customs Brokers (CSCB).

The CCS designation requires applicants to pass an examination that tests their knowledge of customs regulations, procedures, and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customs law, tariff classification, rules of origin, valuation, and other related topics. Applicants must also demonstrate their experience in the field through a minimum of three years’ work experience in customs-related activities.

It typically takes about six months to complete the process of obtaining the CCS designation. This includes studying for and passing the exam as well as submitting a portfolio demonstrating experience in the field.

The cost to obtain the CCS designation varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of the CSCB. For members, it costs $200 for the application fee plus $400 for the exam fee; for non-members it costs $400 for both fees combined.

Do You Really Need a Export Manager Certificate?

The Export Manager Certificate is a certification program offered by the International Trade Council. It is designed to help professionals in the field of export management gain the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in the industry. The certificate is an important part of any professional's career development, as it can open up new opportunities for advancement and provide recognition from employers.

When considering whether or not to pursue an Export Manager Certificate, it is important to consider your current level of experience in export management, as well as what your future goals are. If you already have a good understanding of the basics of export management, then obtaining a certificate may be beneficial for increasing your credentials and furthering your career. On the other hand, if you are just starting out in export management, then taking the time and effort to obtain a certificate may be more valuable than trying to learn everything on your own.

The Export Manager Certificate also provides recognition from employers that can help you stand out when applying for jobs or promotions. Having this type of certification can also provide confidence when dealing with customers or suppliers who may not have much experience in international trade themselves. Finally, having a certificate can provide access to additional resources and training opportunities that will increase your knowledge base and keep you up-to-date on changes within the industry.

In conclusion, while an Export Manager Certificate may not be essential for all professionals in export management, it can certainly be beneficial for those looking to advance their careers or increase their credentials within the industry. The certificate provides recognition from employers, access to resources, and additional training opportunities that will give you an edge over competitors without such qualifications.

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FAQs About Export Manager Certifications

1. What is an Export Manager Certification?

Answer: An Export Manager Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to manage international export operations. It is issued by accredited organizations in the field of international trade or supply chain management, such as the International Trade Council (ITC).

2. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified in export management can provide many benefits, including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, greater chances for promotion and increased credibility among employers and customers. Additionally, it demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence and staying up to date on best practices in global trade.

3. What qualifications do I need to become certified?

Answer: To become certified as an Export Manager, you must typically meet certain educational requirements and have a minimum number of years of experience working in the field of international trade or supply chain management. Additionally, you may need to pass an exam administered by the certifying organization.

4. How long does certification last?

Answer: Most certifications last between one and three years depending on the issuing organization’s policies. Some organizations may require recertification after a certain period of time or if there are changes made to industry standards or practices.

5. Are there any special considerations for non-U.S.-based applicants?

Answer: Yes, some certifying organizations may have special requirements for non-U.S.-based applicants such as additional documentation or language proficiency requirements that must be met before certification can be granted. It’s important to check with your chosen certifying organization for more information about their specific requirements for non-U.S.-based applicants