Top 10 Materials Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a materials manager in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, expertise, and commitment to the profession. Certifications can also give employers confidence that a materials manager is qualified to manage their inventory and supply chain operations. They also show potential employers that the materials manager has taken the time to invest in their professional development, which can be beneficial when competing for jobs against other candidates. Finally, certifications provide an opportunity for networking with other professionals in the field and staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Materials Managers and explains how they can help to enhance a materials manager's career.

What are Materials Manager Certifications?

Materials manager certification is a professional credential for individuals who specialize in managing materials and inventory. This certification can help an individual gain the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a materials management team, ensuring that the organization's supply chain runs smoothly. With this certification, individuals gain the ability to accurately forecast demand, source and procure materials, oversee inventory control systems, and effectively manage vendors. The certification also provides insights into the latest trends in materials management and teaches strategies for improving operational efficiency. By obtaining this certification, individuals become more marketable to employers and demonstrate their commitment to professional development.

Pro tip: Make sure you research the different materials manager certification programs available to determine which one is best for your needs. Look into the requirements, cost, and duration of the program to make sure it fits with your goals and timeline.

Related: What does a Materials Manager do?

Top 10 Materials Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The program is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills required to excel in supply management.

The CPSM program consists of three exams that cover topics such as strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, global supply chain management, and contract law. In order to become certified, candidates must pass all three exams with a score of 75% or higher.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the CPSM program. Candidates must first apply to ISM and pay an application fee before they can begin studying for the exams. Once their application has been approved, they will receive access to study materials and be able to register for the exams.

The cost of the CPSM program varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For members, it costs $1,100 for all three exams while non-members pay $1,400. Additionally, there is a $50 fee per exam when registering for each exam.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of experienced purchasing professionals. It is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), the leading association for supply chain and purchasing professionals. The CPM credential is recognized as a mark of excellence in the field, and it can help individuals demonstrate their commitment to their profession and enhance their career prospects.

The CPM program requires applicants to have at least five years of full-time purchasing experience in addition to completing an extensive educational program. This includes a minimum of 10 courses covering topics such as procurement processes, contract management, supplier relations, and cost analysis. The ISM also offers an online training program that can be used to prepare for the CPM exam.

The CPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. A passing score on the exam earns applicants the Certified Purchasing Manager designation from ISM.

The cost of obtaining the CPM certification varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or not. For non-members, it costs $1,095 for registration fees and $395 for each course taken ($2,185 total). For ISM members, it costs $895 for registration fees and $295 per course taken ($1,985 total).

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program developed by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate mastery of supply chain management best practices and principles. The CSCP program focuses on the end-to-end supply chain, from supplier relationships and sourcing to manufacturing and distribution, customer service, and returns.

The CSCP program takes approximately 18 months to complete. To become certified, applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics such as supply chain strategy and design, global supply chain execution, inventory and warehouse management, transportation management, customer service management, and more.

To get started with the CSCP program, applicants must first register for the exam through ASCM’s website or contact their local chapter for assistance. Once registered for the exam, applicants have up to one year to take it.

The cost of the CSCP exam is $695 USD for members of ASCM or $995 USD for non-members. In addition to the cost of the exam itself, applicants must also purchase study materials such as textbooks or online courses in order to prepare for the exam.

4. Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and understanding of production and inventory management principles, practices, and techniques. It focuses on the planning, sourcing, scheduling, execution, and control of operations within an organization.

The CPIM program consists of five modules:

1. Basics of Supply Chain Management

2. Master Planning of Resources

3. Detailed Scheduling and Planning

4. Execution and Control of Operations

5. Strategic Management of Resources

It typically takes three to six months to complete the CPIM program depending on your learning style and how much time you can dedicate to studying each week. To get certified as a CPIM you must first pass all five exams with a score of at least 500 out of 800 points per exam. After passing all five exams you must submit an application for certification which includes proof that you have completed the required coursework or have relevant work experience in production or inventory management. Once approved, you will receive your official CPIM certificate from APICS.

The cost for the entire CPIM program varies depending on your location and whether or not you are an APICS member but typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD including study materials and exam fees.

5. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification (APICS CPIM)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CPIM certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in production and inventory management. It is designed to help individuals advance their careers in the field of operations, supply chain, and logistics. The APICS CPIM certification is internationally recognized as a benchmark of excellence for those working in the field.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the APICS CPIM certification program. The program consists of five courses: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each course must be completed with a passing grade before the certification can be awarded.

To get started on the APICS CPIM certification program, individuals must first become an APICS member by registering online or through their local chapter. Membership fees vary depending on the type chosen but range from $99 for students to $199 for professionals. After becoming a member, individuals can purchase study materials such as textbooks or practice tests from APICS or other vendors to help them prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the five exams varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not; members receive discounted rates compared to non-members. The total cost for taking all five exams ranges from $1,000-$1,500 USD for members and $2,000-$2,500 USD for non-members (including exam fees).

6. Institute for Supply Management's Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD)

The Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD) is a certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). This certification program is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise and knowledge in supplier diversity. It is intended to help organizations create and maintain successful supplier diversity programs.

To become a CPSD, individuals must meet certain criteria and demonstrate their knowledge of supplier diversity best practices through an exam. The exam covers topics such as supplier diversity policies and procedures, legal requirements, financial management, strategic sourcing, and more. The exam is administered online and can be taken from anywhere with an internet connection.

It typically takes approximately three months to complete the CPSD certification process. Individuals must first apply for the certification program and submit all required documentation. Once approved, they must then register for the exam and pay the associated fee ($595 USD). After registering for the exam, individuals will receive access to study materials that will help them prepare for the exam.

Once they have successfully passed the exam, individuals will receive their CPSD certificate within four weeks of passing the test. There are no additional fees associated with becoming a certified professional in supplier diversity; however, ISM does offer optional continuing education courses that may require an additional fee.

7. International Quality Federation's Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

The Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification offered by the International Quality Federation (IQF). It is designed to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality management principles, practices, and tools.

The CQM certification requires candidates to pass an exam that covers topics such as quality systems, process improvement, customer satisfaction, and risk management. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge of the IQF’s Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. The exam is administered by an independent testing agency and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CQM certification, candidates must have at least five years of experience in a quality-related role or hold a bachelor's degree in a related field. Candidates must also submit two letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues attesting to their qualifications for the certification.

The cost of the CQM certification exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

8. Association for Operations Management's Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

The Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CLTD certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and expertise in logistics, transportation and distribution.

The CLTD certification requires that applicants have at least three years of relevant work experience in the field. Candidates must also pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge of logistics, transportation and distribution topics. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering nine subject areas: Planning & Design; Execution & Operations; Sourcing & Procurement; Freight Management; Inventory & Warehouse Management; Network Design & Facility Location; Reverse Logistics & Sustainability; Global Logistics Considerations; and Performance Measurement.

To obtain the CLTD certification, candidates must first register with APICS and pay the applicable fee. After registering, candidates can access study materials such as books, online courses, practice exams and other resources to help them prepare for the exam. Once they are ready to take the exam, they can schedule it through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. The cost of taking the exam is $495 for APICS members or $595 for non-members.

In total, it usually takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for the CLTD certification. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive their official CLTD certificate from APICS.

9. ISM’s Supplier Relationship Professional Certification (SRP)

ISM’s Supplier Relationship Professional Certification (SRP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of those responsible for managing supplier relationships. It is the only certification of its kind that focuses on the critical competencies associated with successful supplier relationship management.

The SRP certification requires a minimum of five years of related experience, as well as completion of an approved course in supplier relationship management. The course must be completed within 12 months prior to applying for the SRP certification. To obtain the SRP certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by ISM.

The cost of the SRP certification is $695 for ISM members and $895 for non-members. The fee includes access to all necessary materials, including study guides and practice exams, as well as access to online support from ISM staff members.

In order to maintain their SRP certification, professionals must complete at least 20 hours of continuing education every two years and pay an annual renewal fee of $150 for ISM members or $200 for non-members.

10. National Association of Purchasing Management’s Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP).

The National Association of Purchasing Management’s Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the purchasing profession. The CPP certification is one of the most widely recognized and respected credentials in the purchasing field.

The CPP program consists of an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, procurement processes, contract management, supplier relationship management, and risk management. The exam is administered by Prometric Testing Centers and takes approximately four hours to complete. To be eligible for the CPP certification, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience in purchasing or related fields.

To obtain the CPP certification, applicants must successfully pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. Once certified, individuals are required to recertify every three years by completing continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

The cost for taking the CPP exam is $500 USD for NAPM members and $700 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 USD to maintain active CPP status.

Do You Really Need a Materials Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a Materials Manager Certificate in order to become a materials manager. However, having one can certainly help boost your resume and make you more attractive to potential employers. The certificate will demonstrate that you have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage the materials and resources of an organization. It also shows that you are committed to continuing your education and professional development in this field.

In addition to being beneficial for job seekers, a Materials Manager Certificate may also be required by certain employers or organizations in order to qualify for certain positions. For example, some companies may require their employees to obtain a Materials Manager Certificate before they can be hired as a materials manager.

Although it is not essential, having a Materials Manager Certificate can be extremely beneficial for those who wish to pursue a career in materials management. It is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field, which can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, having a certificate can provide extra credibility when negotiating salary or promotions with current employers or when seeking new employment opportunities.

Related: Materials Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Materials Manager Certifications

1. What is a Materials Manager Certification?

Answer: A Materials Manager Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in managing the procurement, storage, and distribution of materials used in production and other operations.

2. How do I become certified as a Materials Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Materials Manager, you must pass an exam administered by either the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) or the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

3. What topics are covered on the Materials Manager Certification exam?

Answer: The topics covered on the Materials Manager Certification exam include inventory management, purchasing, transportation and logistics, supplier management, quality control, and materials handling.

4. How long does it take to complete a Materials Manager Certification?

Answer: The time required to complete a Materials Manager Certification varies depending on the certifying organization and the individual’s prior experience with related topics. Generally speaking, it takes between one to two years to complete all requirements for certification.

5. Is there ongoing education required to maintain my Materials Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require continuing education credits to maintain your certification status. This typically includes attending conferences or seminars related to materials management topics or completing online courses.