Top 11 Junior Buyer Certifications

Certifications are an important way for a junior buyer to demonstrate their knowledge, experience and commitment to the profession. In today’s competitive job market, having certifications can give a junior buyer an edge over other applicants. Certifications provide evidence that the applicant has taken the time and effort to learn about their field of interest and has achieved a certain level of proficiency. They also show that the person is dedicated to their career and willing to invest in their professional development. Additionally, many employers view certifications as evidence that an applicant is qualified for a particular role, making them more attractive candidates for hiring.

The article reviews the top certifications for Junior Buyers, highlighting how they can help further a junior buyer's career.

What are Junior Buyer Certifications?

Junior buyer certification is a professional certification program designed for those looking to enter the field of purchasing and supply chain management. The certification provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful junior buyers in a variety of industries. It focuses on topics such as understanding the fundamentals of procurement, working with vendors, negotiating contracts, analyzing data, and forecasting demand. Additionally, it covers topics related to legal issues in procurement, risk management, inventory control, and pricing analysis.

By obtaining junior buyer certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge of the purchasing process and their ability to contribute to the success of an organization. This certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when seeking employment opportunities and can open up new career paths for those already in the field. With a junior buyer certification, employers can be confident that they are hiring a qualified individual who has received specialized training in this area. Additionally, organizations may be more likely to consider certified candidates for promotions or other advancement opportunities within their company.

Pro Tip: Make sure to complete all required courses and exams for junior buyer certification. It's important to stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and best practices in order to be successful as a junior buyer. Additionally, take advantage of continuing education opportunities or mentorship programs to further your knowledge and skills.

Related: What does a Junior Buyer do?

Top 11 Junior Buyer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Junior Buyers today.

1. Certified Professional Buyer (CPB)

Certified Professional Buyer (CPB) is a professional designation that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who work in purchasing and procurement. It is awarded by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), the world's largest association of supply management professionals. The CPB certification requires passing an exam and demonstrating a minimum of three years’ experience in purchasing or related fields.

The CPB certification exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as contract law, cost analysis, inventory management, and negotiation strategies. The exam takes approximately 3 hours to complete and can be taken at any ISM-approved testing center.

To obtain the CPB certification, applicants must first submit an application to ISM that includes proof of their relevant work experience. Once approved, they will receive a unique authorization code which they can use to register for the exam. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their official CPB certificate from ISM.

The cost of obtaining the CPB certification varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For non-members, it costs $395 USD plus applicable taxes and fees; for members it costs $295 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in purchasing, procurement and supply chain management. To become certified, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as purchasing principles, legal aspects of purchasing, supply chain management, inventory control and more.

The CPM certification process typically takes three to six months to complete depending on the amount of time available for studying. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least four years of full-time work experience in purchasing or related fields.

The cost of becoming a CPM varies depending on the country you are located in and whether or not you are an ISM member. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $1,000 USD to take the exam. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as the actual exam itself.

Once certified, CPMs can expect to benefit from increased job opportunities and higher salaries due to their enhanced qualifications. Additionally, they may also be able to access exclusive resources such as networking events and industry publications.

3. Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skill and expertise in purchasing and supply management. The CPP certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary skills to manage purchasing operations effectively and efficiently.

It typically takes between 12-18 months to complete the CPP certification program. To get started, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having at least three years of full-time experience in purchasing and/or supply chain management. Once these requirements are met, applicants can begin studying for the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CPP certification varies depending on whether or not you choose to take advantage of any discounts offered by APS. The standard fee for taking the exam is $395 USD, but there are discounts available for members of APS and other organizations. Additionally, some employers may reimburse their employees for all or part of the cost associated with obtaining the CPP certification.

In order to pass the exam, applicants must score 70% or higher on each section of the exam. After passing the test, individuals will receive their official CPP certificate from APS and be officially recognized as a Certified Purchasing Professional.

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the APICS organization. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and understanding of supply chain management principles and practices. The CSCP certification is the highest-level credential available in the field of supply chain management, and it is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence for those working in the industry.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete all three parts of the CSCP exam process: self-study, classroom instruction, and passing the exam. To get certified, you must first complete an approved CSCP course or program, then pass the three-part CSCP exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for taking the CSCP exam varies depending on whether you take it online or in person at an APICS testing center. Online exams cost $695 USD while in-person exams cost $825 USD.

5. Certified Green Purchasing Professional (CGPP)

Certified Green Purchasing Professional (CGPP) is a certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to make environmentally responsible purchasing decisions. This certification is offered through the National Association of Purchasing Management (NAPM).

The CGPP program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as environmental regulations, sustainable materials management, green procurement strategies, and more. The exam tests knowledge in these areas and requires a passing score of 75%.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the CGPP program depending on how quickly you work through the online course and prepare for the exam. To get started, you must register for the program on the NAPM website and pay a fee of $295 USD. Once registered, you will have access to all of the materials needed to complete the program.

Upon successful completion of both parts of the CGPP program, you will be awarded with a certificate that can be used to demonstrate your expertise in green procurement practices.

6. Certified International Procurement Professional (CIPP)

Certified International Procurement Professional (CIPP) is a certification program developed by the Institute of Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to manage global procurement operations. The CIPP certification is recognized as a professional credential in the field of international procurement and supply chain management.

The CIPP program consists of two courses: an online course and an in-person workshop. The online course provides an introduction to global procurement processes, while the in-person workshop focuses on practical application of those concepts. Both courses must be completed within one year to earn the certification.

To get certified, you must have at least five years of experience in international procurement or supply chain management, pass a written exam, and complete both courses within one year. The cost for the exam and both courses is approximately $2,000 USD.

7. Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)

A Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) is a professional designation given to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in public procurement. The CPPO credential is granted by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC). This certification verifies that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage public procurement processes and procedures.

To become certified, individuals must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as contract law, purchasing principles, and ethics. The exam is offered twice a year and takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must also complete an application process prior to taking the exam, which includes providing proof of education, experience, and training in public procurement.

The cost of obtaining the CPPO credential varies depending on how many examinations are taken. The initial examination fee is $395 for UPPCC members and $495 for non-members. Additional exams can be taken at a discounted rate of $295 for UPPCC members and $395 for non-members.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their credentials by completing continuing education requirements every two years. This includes attending workshops or conferences related to public procurement or earning continuing education credits from approved providers.

8. Certified Sourcing and Procurement Specialist (CSPS)

Certified Sourcing and Procurement Specialist (CSPS) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CSPS certification provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to become successful in the field of sourcing and procurement.

The CSPS certification program consists of four courses: Introduction to Sourcing & Procurement, Sourcing & Procurement Processes & Practices, Strategic Sourcing & Negotiation Strategies, and Supplier Relationship Management. Each course requires approximately 40 hours of study time. Upon completion of all four courses, an exam must be taken and passed in order to receive the CSPS certification.

In order to obtain the CSPS certification, individuals must first become members of ISM. Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership chosen. After becoming a member, individuals can purchase the four courses needed for their certification at a discounted rate.

The cost of obtaining the CSPS certification varies depending on whether or not an individual is already a member of ISM. For non-members, it costs approximately $1,400 USD for all four courses plus exam fees; while for members, it costs approximately $900 USD plus exam fees.

It takes approximately 160 hours to complete all four courses and pass the exam required for the CSPS certification. Once certified, individuals are eligible to use their credentials as part of their professional profile or resume.

9. Global Sourcing and Procurement Certification (GSPC)

Global Sourcing and Procurement Certification (GSPC) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in global sourcing and procurement. It is offered by the Global Sourcing and Procurement Council (GSPC), an international organization dedicated to promoting best practices in global sourcing and procurement.

The GSPC certification program consists of two levels: Professional and Expert. The Professional level requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge in areas such as supply chain management, contract negotiation, supplier selection, risk management, and more. To qualify for the Expert level, applicants must demonstrate advanced knowledge in these same areas as well as additional topics such as strategic sourcing, cost analysis, and supplier relationship management.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the GSPC certification program depending on the applicant’s experience level. Applicants must pass an online assessment that tests their knowledge of global sourcing and procurement topics before they can be certified.

The cost of obtaining GSPC certification varies depending on the applicant’s experience level. For those with no prior experience or training in global sourcing and procurement, the cost is approximately $1,000 USD for both levels of certification combined. Those with some prior experience may qualify for discounted rates.

To get started with the GSPC certification process, applicants must first register online at the GSPC website. Once registered, they will receive access to study materials which they can use to prepare for the online assessment exam. After passing this exam successfully, applicants will receive their GSPC certification credentials within 2-4 weeks from their date of completion.

10. Strategic Sourcing Certification Program (SSCP)

The Strategic Sourcing Certification Program (SSCP) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful strategic sourcing professionals. The program is designed for individuals who have an interest in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management.

The SSCP consists of three levels: Certified Strategic Sourcing Professional (CSSP), Advanced Certified Strategic Sourcing Professional (ACSSP), and Master Certified Strategic Sourcing Professional (MCSP). Each level requires different levels of experience, education, and training. To receive certification, applicants must complete the required courses and pass the corresponding exam.

The program takes approximately 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual's experience level and commitment to completing the coursework. In order to receive certification, applicants must complete all required courses as well as pass the corresponding exam.

To get started with the SSCP program, applicants must first register online at www.strategicsourcingcertification.org. Once registered, applicants can begin taking courses online or through approved training providers in their area. The cost of the program depends on the individual's level of experience and chosen course provider but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD per course.

11. Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply

The Chartered Institute of Purchasing & Supply (CIPS) Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply is an internationally recognised qualification that provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practice of procurement and supply. It is designed to give learners the knowledge, understanding and skills required to work effectively in a procurement and supply environment.

The CIPS Level 4 Diploma in Procurement and Supply consists of six modules which are all assessed by multiple choice exams:

1. Principles of Procurement & Supply

2. Professional Practice in Procurement & Supply

3. Negotiations & Contracting

4. Logistics & Distribution

5. Risk Management

6. Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Relationship Management

It typically takes around 12-18 months to complete the qualification depending on how much time you can dedicate to your studies each week, but it can be completed faster if needed. The cost for the entire course varies between £2,000 - £3,000 depending on where you choose to study it from. You can get the qualification through online learning or attending classes at a college or university that offers it as part of their curriculum.

Do You Really Need a Junior Buyer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends largely on your individual needs and goals. If you are looking to break into the world of buying and merchandising, then having a Junior Buyer Certificate can be invaluable. It can provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills required to gain a position in this field, as well as demonstrate to employers that you have the relevant qualifications and experience.

Having a Junior Buyer Certificate also demonstrates a commitment to learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends. This is important for buyers, who need to be knowledgeable about current market conditions and new products in order to make informed decisions about what merchandise should be purchased for their company or organization. A certificate can also open doors for more advanced roles within companies, such as senior buyer or purchasing manager positions.

On the other hand, if you already have some experience in buying or merchandising, then a Junior Buyer Certificate may not be necessary. Having prior work experience or education in the field may be enough to demonstrate your expertise and capability in the role of buying merchandise. You may also find that employers value your existing skillset more than they would an additional certification.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not a Junior Buyer Certificate is necessary for your career goals. Consider what kind of job opportunities you are seeking out, as well as any existing experience or qualifications that could help you get there.

Related: Junior Buyer Resume Examples

FAQs About Junior Buyer Certifications

1. What qualifications are required to become a Junior Buyer?

A: To become a Junior Buyer, you must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent and some experience in the purchasing field. Depending on the company, additional education or certifications may be required.

2. What is the average salary for a Junior Buyer?

A: The average salary for a Junior Buyer varies widely depending on location and experience. Generally, entry-level buyers earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually.

3. How long does it take to obtain a Junior Buyer certification?

A: The length of time it takes to obtain a Junior Buyer certification depends on the program you choose and your current level of knowledge. Most programs can be completed in 6 months or less if you dedicate yourself to studying and completing the requirements quickly.

4. Are there any online courses available for becoming a Junior Buyer?

A: Yes! There are many online courses available that can help you learn about purchasing principles, negotiation tactics, and more to help prepare you for becoming a successful Junior Buyer.

5. What type of job opportunities are available for someone with a Junior Buyer certification?

A: With your certification, you can pursue jobs as an Assistant Purchaser, Procurement Clerk/Assistant, or even Purchasing Manager in various industries such as retail, manufacturing, hospitality, and more!