Top 11 Key Account Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a key account manager because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual is qualified and prepared to perform the duties associated with the job. Certifications show employers that the individual has completed training in specific areas related to key account management, such as customer relationship management, sales strategy and tactics, budgeting and forecasting, team leadership, and problem-solving. Additionally, certifications demonstrate an understanding of industry best practices and standards that can help a key account manager better serve their clients. As such, certifications are an essential tool for any key account manager looking to stand out in a competitive job market.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Key Account Managers and explains how they can help to advance a key account manager's career.

What are Key Account Manager Certifications?

Key Account Manager Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the skills and knowledge needed to manage key accounts within an organization. This certification is designed to provide individuals with the necessary training to effectively identify, develop and manage the relationships between an organization and their most valuable customers. The certification focuses on developing strategies to build strong customer relationships, maximize customer value, and increase sales. It also covers topics such as understanding customers’ needs, creating effective communication plans and managing customer expectations.

Having a Key Account Manager Certification can help an individual stand out in the job market as it demonstrates their commitment to providing exceptional customer service and staying up-to-date on industry trends. Additionally, it provides employers with assurance that their employees have been trained in best practices for managing key accounts. With this certification, individuals are able to demonstrate a level of expertise that can help them advance their career in the field of account management.

Pro Tip: When considering a key account manager certification, look for programs that offer an emphasis on business development and customer relationship management. This will ensure that you have the skills necessary to effectively manage customer relationships and grow your accounts. Additionally, seek out certifications which provide opportunities for networking with other industry professionals, as these connections can be invaluable in advancing your career.

Related: What does a Key Account Manager do?

Top 11 Key Account Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Account Manager (CPAM)

Certified Professional Account Manager (CPAM) is a certification program designed to recognize and reward professionals who have demonstrated the highest level of excellence in account management. The CPAM designation is awarded by the Institute of Certified Professional Account Managers (ICPAM), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the profession of account management.

To become a CPAM, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having at least three years of professional experience in account management, passing an online exam, and completing a minimum number of continuing education credits. The exam covers topics such as client relations, financial analysis, project management, and marketing principles.

The process to become a CPAM typically takes 6-12 months from start to finish. In order to begin the process, applicants must first submit an application form and fee to ICPAM. After submitting the application form, applicants will be required to take the online exam within six months. Once they have passed the exam, they will then be required to complete their continuing education credits before being awarded their CPAM designation.

The cost for becoming a CPAM varies depending on where you live and how long it takes you to complete all of the requirements. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD for application fees and exam costs. Additionally, any additional expenses related to continuing education courses may also need to be taken into consideration when budgeting for this certification program.

2. Certified Key Account Manager (CKAM)

Certified Key Account Manager (CKAM) is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in managing key accounts. It is designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage key accounts, including building relationships with customers, understanding customer needs, and developing strategies for meeting those needs. The certification is offered by the American Association of Professional Account Managers (AAPAM).

The CKAM program consists of two parts: an online course and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as customer relationship management, sales process management, pricing strategies, account planning, and more. It typically takes about six weeks to complete the online course; however, this can vary depending on the individual student’s progress. After completing the online course, students must pass a final exam to receive their certification.

To get certified as a CKAM, individuals must first register for the program through AAPAM’s website. The cost of registration varies depending on whether you are an AAPAM member or non-member; members pay $295 while non-members pay $395. Once registered, individuals will be provided access to the online course materials and can begin working through them at their own pace. Upon successful completion of both parts of the program (online course and final exam), individuals will receive their certificate of completion from AAPAM.

3. Certified Strategic Account Manager (CSAM)

Certified Strategic Account Manager (CSAM) is a professional certification program designed to help sales and account management professionals develop the skills necessary to succeed in today’s competitive market. The certification is awarded by the Strategic Account Management Association (SAMA), an international organization dedicated to advancing the practice of strategic account management.

The CSAM certification is achieved through a comprehensive, three-stage process that includes an online assessment, a two-day classroom workshop, and an online exam. The assessment helps identify areas of strength and weakness in order to customize the learning experience for each individual participant. The two-day workshop provides hands-on training on topics such as customer segmentation, value proposition development, and relationship building. Finally, participants must pass an online exam in order to receive their CSAM certification.

The cost of the CSAM program varies depending on location and other factors, but typically ranges from $2,500-$3,000 USD. It takes approximately four weeks from start to finish to complete the program and receive your certification.

4. Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CCRM)

Certified Customer Relationship Manager (CCRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their expertise in customer relationship management (CRM) strategies and practices. The CCRM designation is awarded by the American Association of Customer Relationship Management (AACRM).

The CCRM certification program consists of three levels: Level 1 focuses on basic CRM concepts, Level 2 covers advanced CRM strategies and techniques, and Level 3 provides an in-depth understanding of CRM implementation. To obtain the CCRM designation, candidates must successfully complete all three levels.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the entire CCRM certification program. Candidates can take courses online or attend instructor-led classes at AACRM-approved training centers.

The cost for the CCRM certification program varies depending on the type of course taken, but generally ranges from $2,000-$4,000 for all three levels.

5. Certified Global Key Account Manager (CGKAM)

Certified Global Key Account Manager (CGKAM) is an accreditation program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in managing global key accounts. The program is offered by the Global Key Account Management Association (GKAMA).

The CGKAM certification requires that candidates demonstrate knowledge and understanding of global key account management, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge to their daily work. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in global key account management, and must pass an examination administered by GKAMA.

The examination consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as global market analysis, customer relationship management, strategic planning, and negotiation skills. The practical assessment evaluates the candidate’s ability to develop and implement effective strategies for managing global key accounts.

The cost of the CGKAM certification is $1,500 USD plus applicable taxes. The cost includes the exam fee, study materials, and access to online resources. It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process from start to finish.

To get started with the CGKAM certification process, applicants must first submit an application form along with proof of their experience in global key account management. Once approved, they will receive instructions on how to register for the exam and access study materials. After successfully completing both parts of the examination, applicants will receive their official CGKAM certificate from GKAMA.

6. Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM)

Certified Professional Sales Manager (CPSM) is a certification program offered by the Sales Management Association. It is designed to recognize sales managers who have demonstrated a mastery of the core competencies required for success in the field. The certification program is based on the seven core competencies of sales management: strategy, planning, operations, customer relationships, talent development, financial management, and analytics.

The CPSM certification process consists of three parts: an online assessment that tests your knowledge of the seven core competencies; an application process that requires you to provide evidence of your experience; and a final exam that tests your ability to apply the core competencies in real-world scenarios. The entire process takes approximately four months to complete.

To get certified as a CPSM, you must first submit an application and pay the associated fees. After submitting your application, you will be sent a link to take the online assessment. Once you have completed the assessment and submitted it for review, you will be invited to take the final exam. Upon passing both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will receive your CPSM certification.

The cost for taking the CPSM program varies depending on whether or not you are an SMA member. For non-members, it costs $795 USD plus applicable taxes; for members it costs $595 USD plus applicable taxes.

7. Certified Business Relationship Management Professional (CBRMP)

Certified Business Relationship Management Professional (CBRMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of individuals in the field of business relationship management. The CBRMP certification is issued by the Association of Business Relationship Management Professionals (ABRMP), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the profession.

The CBRMP certification requires applicants to have at least three years of professional experience in business relationship management, as well as a minimum of 25 hours of continuing education related to the field. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as business relationship management principles, best practices, and strategies for success.

To obtain the CBRMP certification, applicants must first register with ABRMP and pay the applicable fee. After registration is complete, applicants can then take the online exam. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam, they will receive their CBRMP certificate within four weeks.

The cost for obtaining a CBRMP certification varies depending on whether you are an individual or a corporate member of ABRMP. For individuals, the cost is $495 USD; for corporate members, it is $995 USD.

8. Advanced Key Account Management Program (AKAMP)

Advanced Key Account Management Program (AKAMP) is a comprehensive program designed to help organizations develop and maintain strong relationships with their key accounts. The program focuses on developing the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage key accounts, as well as providing guidance on best practices for account management.

The AKAMP program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete, depending on the size of the organization and the complexity of its key accounts. It consists of several modules, each focusing on a different aspect of account management such as customer segmentation, relationship building, pricing strategies, negotiation techniques, and more.

In order to get started with AKAMP, organizations must first identify their key accounts and determine which areas they need assistance in managing them. After that, they can contact an accredited provider of AKAMP services who will provide them with training materials and resources.

The cost of the AKAMP program varies depending on the provider and the size of the organization. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars per month for larger organizations.

9. International Association of Key Account Managers Certification Program (IAKAMCP)

The International Association of Key Account Managers Certification Program (IAKAMCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of key account managers. It is offered by the International Association of Key Account Managers (IAKAM) and is designed to help key account managers better understand the principles, strategies, and tactics that are essential for success in their roles.

The IAKAMCP consists of two parts: an online assessment and a practical exam. The online assessment consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer segmentation, sales strategies, relationship management, negotiation techniques, and more. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply the concepts they have learned in the online assessment in a simulated business environment.

The IAKAMCP takes approximately 8-12 weeks to complete depending on how quickly you can complete the coursework. To get certified, applicants must first become members of IAKAM and then submit an application for certification along with proof that they have completed all required coursework. Once approved, applicants must successfully pass both the online assessment and practical exam before being awarded their certification.

The cost for becoming certified through IAKAMCP varies depending on which membership level you choose. The basic membership costs $99 per year while the premium membership costs $299 per year.

10. National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors Key Account Management Certification Program (NAW KAMCP)

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors Key Account Management Certification Program (NAW KAMCP) is a professional certification program designed to provide wholesaler-distributors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage their key accounts. The program focuses on developing the skills needed to build relationships, create value, and increase sales. It covers topics such as customer segmentation, account planning, pricing strategies, negotiation techniques, and more.

The NAW KAMCP is a two-part program consisting of an online course and an in-person workshop. The online course takes approximately 10 hours to complete and covers the fundamentals of key account management. The in-person workshop is a two-day event that provides hands-on practice and feedback from experienced professionals.

To get certified through the NAW KAMCP program, individuals must first complete the online course and then attend the two-day workshop. Upon completion of both parts of the program, participants will receive their certification from NAW.

The cost for this program varies depending on whether or not you are a member of NAW. For nonmembers, the cost is $1,495 per person; for members it is $1,295 per person.

11. American Marketing Association Professional Certified Marketer in Key Account Management (PCMKAM).

The American Marketing Association Professional Certified Marketer in Key Account Management (PCMKAM) is a professional certification that recognizes marketing professionals who have demonstrated mastery of key account management principles and practices. It is designed to help marketers advance their careers and gain recognition for their skills and expertise.

To obtain the PCMKAM certification, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as customer segmentation, customer relationship management, key account management strategies, and sales forecasting. The exam is offered by the American Marketing Association and administered by Prometric Testing Centers. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to take the PCMKAM exam, applicants must first register with the American Marketing Association. Registration fees are $350 for members of the AMA or $450 for non-members. After registering, applicants will receive an email from Prometric with instructions on how to schedule their exam date.

Once applicants have passed the PCMKAM exam, they will be awarded a certificate from the American Marketing Association that recognizes their achievement as a Professional Certified Marketer in Key Account Management. This certificate can then be used to demonstrate one’s proficiency in key account management principles and practices to potential employers or clients.

Do You Really Need a Key Account Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a Key Account Manager Certificate to be successful in the field. However, having such a certificate can provide valuable credentials and demonstrate knowledge of key account management principles and practices.

Having a Key Account Manager Certificate can open up doors for those looking to enter the field or advance their career. It can show employers that you have taken the initiative to gain additional knowledge in the area of key account management and can help distinguish your resume from others. It also helps demonstrate that you are committed to understanding the complexities of managing key accounts and have the skills necessary to succeed in the role.

In addition, having a Key Account Manager Certificate may make you eligible for higher salaries or promotions within an organization. Many organizations require employees who work with key accounts to have a certain level of certification before they are promoted, so having such certification could give you an advantage over other candidates who don’t hold it.

Overall, while having a Key Account Manager Certificate is not essential for success in this field, it could be beneficial depending on your situation and goals. If you want to set yourself apart from other job seekers or increase your earning potential, then obtaining certification may be worth your time and effort.

Related: Key Account Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Key Account Manager Certifications

FAQ 1: What is a Key Account Manager Certification?

Answer: A Key Account Manager Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and experience in managing key accounts. The certification demonstrates the holder’s ability to manage complex customer relationships, build effective strategies, and drive sales growth.

FAQ 2: What are the requirements for obtaining a Key Account Manager Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Key Account Manager Certification, typically applicants must have at least five years of relevant work experience and pass an exam. Other requirements may vary depending on the certifying organization.

FAQ 3: How long does it take to get a Key Account Manager Certification?

Answer: It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the certification process, depending on the certifying organization.

FAQ 4: What are the benefits of having a Key Account Manager Certification?

Answer: Having a Key Account Manager Certification can give individuals an advantage when seeking employment or promotion opportunities, as well as provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage key accounts. Additionally, some organizations may offer salary increases or bonuses for certified key account managers.

FAQ 5: Where can I find more information about Key Account Manager Certifications?

Answer: You can find more information about Key Account Manager Certifications from various certifying organizations such as The Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM) or American Management Association (AMA). Additionally, many universities offer courses related to key account management which may help you prepare for certification exams.