Top 10 Food Service Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a food service manager in the job market because they demonstrate an individual's knowledge and skills, which can help them stand out from other candidates. Certifications also give employers assurance that the individual is qualified to manage a food service operation. Having certifications also gives potential employers a greater level of confidence in hiring the individual, as it shows a commitment to professional development and indicates that the individual is capable of meeting health and safety regulations. Finally, certifications may provide access to higher-level positions and better wages due to their recognition of specialized knowledge.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Food Service Managers and explain how they can enhance a food service manager's career.

What are Food Service Manager Certifications?

Food service manager certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a food service manager’s knowledge and skills related to the management of foodservice operations. This certification is typically offered by an organization or association in the food industry, such as the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). It requires the successful completion of an examination and can be obtained at various levels, depending on the individual's experience and education.

Having a food service manager certification can help individuals stand out in the job market and demonstrate their commitment to professionalism in the field. It also indicates that they have a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of food service management, such as menu planning, sanitation, customer service, nutrition, cost control and marketing. In addition, it may provide access to professional development opportunities that can further their career. Having this certification may also help individuals move into more advanced positions within the foodservice industry.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a food service manager, make sure to obtain certification from an accredited institution. This will ensure that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage a food service operation and provide safe and high quality meals for your customers.

Related: What does a Food Service Manager do?

Top 10 Food Service Manager Certifications

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

1. ServSafe Manager Food Safety Certification

ServSafe Manager Food Safety Certification is a program designed to educate food service managers on the principles of food safety. It is offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The ServSafe Manager Food Safety Certification program teaches food service managers how to identify, prevent and manage food-borne illnesses. It also covers topics such as personal hygiene, cleaning and sanitizing, temperature control, cross-contamination prevention, and safe storage of food items.

The certification program typically takes 8 hours to complete and includes an exam at the end. To get certified, individuals must attend a ServSafe Manager class or take an online course that meets the requirements set forth by the NRAEF. After completing the course, individuals must pass an exam with a score of 75% or higher in order to receive their certification.

The cost of ServSafe Manager Food Safety Certification varies depending on where you take the course and whether you choose to take it online or in person. Generally speaking, it can range from $90-$160 for the course materials and exam fee.

2. National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certified Foodservice Manager (CFM)

The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF) Certified Foodservice Manager (CFM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize foodservice professionals who demonstrate the highest levels of competency and professionalism in their field. The CFM is a nationally recognized credential that validates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in managing a successful foodservice operation.

The CFM program requires completion of a minimum of 16 hours of classroom instruction in topics such as customer service, sanitation and safety, financial management, human resources management, marketing and promotion, menu planning, purchasing and inventory control, and operations management. Upon successful completion of the coursework, individuals must pass an exam administered by the NRAEF.

It typically takes approximately three months to complete all requirements for the CFM certification. To get certified as a CFM, individuals must register for the course through an approved provider or online platform. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider but can range from $400 - $700 USD.

3. International Food Safety and Quality Network (IFSQN) Certified Food Service Manager (CFSM)

The International Food Safety and Quality Network (IFSQN) Certified Food Service Manager (CFSM) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the ability to manage food safety and quality systems in a food service setting. This certification is designed for those who are responsible for managing food safety and quality programs in restaurants, catering services, cafeterias, institutional kitchens, and other food service operations.

To get the CFSM certification, applicants must first complete an IFSQN-approved training course. The length of the course may vary depending on the provider, but typically takes between 16-20 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the training course, applicants must then pass an online exam administered by IFSQN.

The cost of obtaining CFSM certification depends on the provider offering the training course. Typically, the cost ranges from $400-$500 USD for both the training course and exam fee combined.

4. American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Chef (CEC)

The American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Executive Chef (CEC) is the highest level of certification offered by the ACF. It is a mark of distinction that recognizes an individual's expertise in culinary management, food safety, nutrition, and menu planning.

To become a CEC, an individual must have at least five years of experience as a professional cook or chef and complete an approved program of study. The program includes courses in culinary arts, nutrition, sanitation, food safety, management and human resources. Once the program is completed, individuals must pass a written examination to receive their CEC designation.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the requirements for the CEC designation. The cost varies depending on where you take your courses and how you choose to pursue your studies. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 to $7,000 USD.

5. Professional Catering Managers Association (PCMA) Certified Catering Manager (CCM)

The Professional Catering Managers Association (PCMA) Certified Catering Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the catering industry. The CCM certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of catering management principles, practices, and procedures.

To earn the CCM certification, applicants must complete an online application form and pass an exam administered by PCMA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as food safety, customer service, marketing and sales, budgeting and cost control, event planning, catering operations, and personnel management.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the exam. During this time, applicants should review study materials provided by PCMA or attend a training course offered by an accredited provider.

The cost of taking the CCM exam varies depending on the applicant’s location; however, it typically ranges from $250-$500 USD.

6. National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM)

The National Registry of Food Safety Professionals (NRFSP) Certified Professional Food Manager (CPFM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize food safety professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a safe and sanitary food service operation. The CPFM credential is administered by the NRFSP and is recognized by state, local, and federal regulatory agencies.

To obtain the CPFM credential, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as food safety regulations, HACCP principles, sanitation practices, food preparation techniques, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. The exam fee is $125 for members of the NRFSP or $150 for non-members.

Once an applicant has passed the exam, they will receive their CPFM certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks. This certification must be renewed every three years by passing a recertification exam or completing continuing education credits approved by the NRFSP.

7. Institute of Food Technologists (IFT)-Certified Professional in Food Safety

The Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) Certified Professional in Food Safety (CPFS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in food safety. This certification is aimed at professionals working in the food industry, including those involved in production, processing, packaging, distribution, and regulatory compliance.

To become an IFT-Certified Professional in Food Safety, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements. Applicants must have either a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in food science or related field; OR two years of documented full-time work experience in the food industry. In addition, applicants must pass an examination administered by IFT that covers topics such as food safety principles and practices; hazard analysis critical control points (HACCP); sanitation principles; and microbiology fundamentals.

The IFT-Certified Professional in Food Safety exam typically takes about three hours to complete and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. The exam fee is $295 for members of IFT and $395 for non-members. Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their CPFS certificate within four weeks.

8. American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute’s ServSafe Alcohol Certification

The American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute’s ServSafe Alcohol Certification is a comprehensive program designed to provide food service and hospitality professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to serve alcoholic beverages responsibly. The certification is valid for five years, and upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate of completion.

The ServSafe Alcohol Certification consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person exam. The online course can be completed in as little as four hours, depending on the participant’s prior experience with alcohol service. The online course covers topics such as laws and regulations, responsible alcohol service techniques, strategies for preventing intoxication, recognizing signs of intoxication, identifying minors, handling difficult situations, and more.

Once the online course is completed successfully, participants must take an in-person exam at an approved location. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that assess knowledge gained from the online course. Upon successful completion of both parts of the program, participants will receive their ServSafe Alcohol Certification.

The cost for the ServSafe Alcohol Certification varies depending on the provider; however, it generally ranges from $50-$100 USD.

9. NRAEF School Nutrition Specialist Certification

The NRAEF School Nutrition Specialist Certification (SNS) is a professional certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). It is designed to help school nutrition professionals improve their knowledge and skills in managing foodservice operations. The SNS certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s expertise in school nutrition.

The SNS certification requires a minimum of two years of experience working in a school nutrition program and completion of the SNS exam. To prepare for the exam, individuals can take advantage of the NRAEF’s online training modules, which cover topics such as menu planning, food safety, financial management, and customer service.

To obtain the SNS certification, individuals must register for the exam through the NRAEF website. The cost of registration is $225 USD and includes access to all online training materials. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their SNS certificate and can use it to demonstrate their expertise in school nutrition to employers or clients.

10. National Environmental Health Association's Certified Professional in foodservice Sanitation

The National Environmental Health Association's Certified Professional in Foodservice Sanitation (CPFS) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and expertise in food safety, sanitation, and hygiene. The CPFS credential is designed to help ensure the safety of food served in restaurants and other foodservice establishments.

To obtain the CPFS credential, applicants must pass a rigorous exam that covers topics such as food safety regulations, sanitation practices, personal hygiene, pest control, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours. Applicants must also have at least two years of work experience in the food service industry.

The cost to take the CPFS exam is $150 for NEHA members or $200 for non-members. Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive a certificate from NEHA recognizing their achievement. The certification is valid for five years before it needs to be renewed.

Do You Really Need a Food Service Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual situation. If you are already employed in a food service management position and have experience in the field, you may not need a Food Service Manager Certificate. However, if you are seeking a new job within the food service industry or want to gain more knowledge and credentials in the field, then obtaining a Food Service Manager Certificate could be beneficial.

The Food Service Manager Certificate is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of managing a food service operation, including financial management, customer service, marketing, personnel selection and training, and menu planning. With this certificate, you will gain valuable knowledge and skills that can help you succeed as a food service manager. Additionally, having the certificate may give you an edge when applying for jobs or promotions within the industry.

Overall, whether or not you need to obtain a Food Service Manager Certificate will depend on your current situation and goals. If you feel that it would be beneficial for your career development or advancement opportunities then it might be worth considering pursuing one.

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FAQs About Food Service Manager Certifications

1. What is the difference between a Food Service Manager Certification and a Food Handler Certification?

Answer: A Food Service Manager Certification is a more advanced certification that requires additional training and knowledge. It covers topics such as food safety, sanitation, nutrition, menu planning and customer service. A Food Handler Certification is more basic and covers topics such as basic food safety, food handling procedures and personal hygiene.

2. What are the requirements to obtain a Food Service Manager Certification?

Answer: The requirements vary by state but typically include passing an exam, completing approved coursework and obtaining a certain amount of work experience in the foodservice industry.

3. How long does it take to get a Food Service Manager Certification?

Answer: The time it takes to obtain a certification will depend on the individual’s background and experience level. In general, most individuals can complete the process within six months to one year.

4. What are the benefits of having a Food Service Manager Certification?

Answer: Having a Food Service Manager Certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence in the foodservice industry, increases your job opportunities and provides you with greater earning potential. It also shows employers that you understand important concepts like safe food handling practices, proper hygiene protocols and customer service principles.

5. Is there any way to renew my Food Service Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, certifications must be renewed every few years depending on which organization issued it or which state you live in. You may need to retake an exam or complete additional coursework in order to keep your certification current.