Top 10 Purchasing Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for a purchasing administrator in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers look for. Having certifications is a sign of credibility that shows potential employers that you have the qualifications necessary to complete the job correctly and efficiently. Certifications also help to differentiate you from other job candidates, making it easier for employers to choose the right person for the job. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement within an organization as they indicate that you possess specialized skills and knowledge that can be used to improve processes or develop new strategies.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Purchasing Administrators and explain how they can help to further their career.

What are Purchasing Administrator Certifications?

Purchasing Administrator Certification is a professional credential awarded by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of competence in procurement and supply chain management. The certification requires successful completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as purchasing strategies, supplier selection, contract negotiation, and price analysis. By obtaining this certification, professionals can demonstrate their expertise in purchasing and supply chain management to employers and customers alike.

In addition to providing recognition of professional achievement, the Purchasing Administrator Certification provides many practical benefits. Professionals with this certification have access to exclusive job postings, discounts on APS products and services, and invitations to exclusive events for certified members. Furthermore, it may provide an edge when competing for jobs or promotions within the field. Finally, it serves as an assurance to employers that their employees are up-to-date on current best practices in the purchasing field.

Pro Tip: When purchasing administrator certification, be sure to research the certifying body and their process to ensure that it is a legitimate certification. Additionally, check to see what types of support they offer after you complete the certification. This can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and regulations, as well as provide additional resources to help you succeed in your role.

Related: What does a Purchasing Administrator do?

Top 10 Purchasing Administrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Purchasing Administrators 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). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in supply management. The certification requires that individuals demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the principles, concepts, and practices of supply management.

It typically takes two to three years to complete the CPSM program. To become certified, individuals must pass three exams: Fundamentals of Supply Management, Professional Practices in Supply Management, and Strategic Sourcing and Supplier Relationship Management. Each exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and has a time limit of three hours.

The cost for taking the exams varies depending on where you take them. The cost for all three exams is usually around $1,500 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining study materials or joining ISM as a member.

Once an individual has passed all three exams, they will receive their official CPSM designation from ISM and can use the credentials on their resume or business cards.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional designation that recognizes the expertise of purchasing professionals. It is awarded by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a global association of supply chain and procurement professionals. The CPM designation is highly respected in the field and demonstrates mastery of purchasing, contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, and other essential skills.

To become certified as a CPM, applicants must have at least five years of experience in purchasing or related activities, such as inventory control or logistics. They must also pass an exam administered by ISM to demonstrate their knowledge. The exam covers topics such as strategic sourcing, supplier selection and evaluation, cost analysis and negotiation techniques, legal considerations in purchasing contracts, and ethical practices in procurement.

The certification process typically takes around six months from start to finish. During this time, candidates must complete an application form, submit supporting documents such as transcripts or certifications from previous employers, pay an application fee ($250 for ISM members; $350 for non-members), and then sit for the exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Purchasing Manager varies depending on your membership status with ISM. For non-members it costs $350 to apply plus additional fees for study materials and the exam itself (which range from $200-$400). For ISM members it costs $250 to apply plus additional fees for study materials and the exam itself (which range from $100-$300).

3. Institute for Supply Management Certified Professional (ISM-CP)

The Institute for Supply Management Certified Professional (ISM-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest level of expertise in supply chain management. The ISM-CP certification is awarded by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in supply chain management.

To become an ISM-CP, candidates must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and demonstrate their commitment to professional development. The exam covers topics such as strategic sourcing, inventory management, logistics and transportation, supplier relationship management, and more.

It typically takes around 6 months to prepare for the exam and complete all the requirements necessary to obtain the certification. To get started on the path towards becoming an ISM-CP, candidates should first review the eligibility criteria on ISM’s website. Once they have determined that they meet all of the requirements, they can register for the exam through ISM’s online portal.

The cost of obtaining an ISM-CP certification varies depending on whether or not a candidate is already a member of ISM. For non-members, it costs $495 USD to take the exam while members pay only $395 USD.

4. Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM)

Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM) is a professional designation offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPPM certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of purchasing management. It is the highest level of recognition available from ISM for purchasing professionals.

In order to become certified, individuals must complete a series of educational requirements and pass an exam administered by ISM. The educational requirements include completing a minimum of 60 hours of approved coursework or attending at least three ISM-approved seminars. Additionally, applicants must have at least five years of experience in purchasing management or related fields.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that are divided into four sections: Purchasing Environment, Purchasing Processes, Supplier Relationships, and Contracting Strategies & Tactics. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and can be taken either online or in person at one of ISM's testing centers.

The cost to take the CPPM exam is $695 USD for members of ISM and $895 USD for non-members. Once you have passed the exam, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 USD per year to maintain your certification status with ISM.

5. Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS)

The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) is a professional body that provides qualifications, training, and resources to those working in the procurement and supply chain industry. It is dedicated to advancing the profession by setting standards of excellence, promoting best practice, and providing members with access to a wide range of resources.

It takes around 12-18 months to complete the CIPS qualification depending on the level you are studying for. To get your CIPS qualification you must first become a member of CIPS and then select which level you would like to study for (Levels 4-6). Once you have chosen your level, you will need to register with an approved learning provider who will provide all the necessary materials and support needed to complete your studies.

The cost of becoming a CIPS member depends on what type of membership you choose. The basic membership fee costs £60 per year, while the professional membership fee costs £120 per year. You may also need to pay additional fees for exams or course materials depending on which level you are studying for.

Overall, becoming a CIPS qualified professional can be beneficial if you want to progress in your career in procurement or supply chain management. It is important that you do your research before committing to any program or course as there are many different options available.

6. Global Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional (GPSCM)

Global Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional (GPSCM) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage global purchasing and supply chain management operations. The program is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

The GPSCM program consists of three courses: Global Sourcing, Global Logistics, and Global Business Strategies. Each course includes topics such as international trade regulations, customs clearance procedures, global sourcing strategies, global logistics management, and global business strategy development. Upon successful completion of all three courses, participants will receive a certificate from ISM.

The GPSCM program typically takes about six months to complete. Participants must complete all three courses within this time frame in order to receive the certificate. Each course requires approximately 40 hours of study time and can be completed at your own pace.

To get started with the GPSCM program, you must first register with ISM and pay a fee of $495 USD. This fee covers the cost of all three courses as well as access to additional resources such as webinars, practice exams, and other materials that can help you prepare for success in the program.

Once you have registered for the GPSCM program, you will be able to begin studying for each course at your own pace. You will also have access to online forums where you can interact with other students who are enrolled in the same courses as you are.

Upon successful completion of all three courses, participants will receive their official certificate from ISM which certifies them as a Global Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Professional (GPSCM).

7. Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)

A Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of public procurement. The CPPO credential is offered by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC), which is an independent, non-profit organization that sets standards for public procurement professionals.

To become a CPPO, an individual must meet certain requirements, including having at least two years of full-time public procurement experience or five years of part-time public procurement experience. In addition, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the UPPCC that covers topics such as financial management, contract law, and ethical considerations.

The process to obtain the CPPO designation typically takes several months from start to finish. After submitting an application and passing the exam, applicants must wait for their results to be reviewed and approved by the UPPCC before receiving their certification.

The cost of obtaining a CPPO certification varies depending on factors such as location and whether or not you are already certified in another profession related to public procurement. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for all associated fees (e.g., application fee, exam fee).

8. American Purchasing Society Certified Professional Purchaser (CPSP)

The American Purchasing Society Certified Professional Purchaser (CPSP) is a professional certification program for purchasing and supply chain professionals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced purchasing and supply chain professionals. The CPSP certification is recognized by many employers as an indication of an individual's commitment to excellence in their profession.

To become certified as a CPSP, an individual must have at least three years of experience in the purchasing or supply chain field and must pass the CPSP exam administered by the American Purchasing Society. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as procurement law, contract management, supplier relations, pricing strategies, inventory control, logistics management, and more.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the type of membership you hold with the American Purchasing Society. It typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with preparing for the exam such as study materials or online courses.

The exam can take up to four hours to complete and results are usually available within two weeks after taking it. After successfully passing the exam, individuals will receive their official CPSP certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

9. National Association of Purchasing Managers Certification Program (NAPM-CP)

The National Association of Purchasing Managers Certification Program (NAPM-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and promote the knowledge, skills, and abilities of purchasing professionals. The NAPM-CP is administered by the National Association of Purchasing Managers (NAPM).

The NAPM-CP is available to individuals who have at least five years of purchasing experience and have obtained a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. To obtain the certification, candidates must pass an examination that covers topics such as procurement processes and procedures, contract management, supplier relations, and risk management.

The NAPM-CP exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass. The cost for taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of NAPM or not. For non-members, the cost is $250 while members pay $200.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official NAPM-CP certificate along with a letter confirming your status as a certified purchasing professional. This certificate is valid for three years before it must be renewed. To renew your certification, you must take 10 hours of continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain your status as a certified purchasing professional.

10. International Association for Contract & Commercial Management Certification Program (IACCM-CP).

The International Association for Contract & Commercial Management Certification Program (IACCM-CP) is a certification program offered by the International Association for Contract & Commercial Management (IACCM). The IACCM-CP is designed to provide contract and commercial professionals with the skills, knowledge, and abilities needed to effectively manage contracts and relationships.

The IACCM-CP consists of four levels of certification: Associate, Professional, Expert, and Master. Each level requires completion of a series of online courses as well as an online assessment. The courses cover topics such as contract law, negotiation strategies, risk management, dispute resolution, and project management. Upon successful completion of the coursework and assessment at each level, candidates are awarded a certificate from the IACCM.

The amount of time it takes to complete each level varies depending on the individual’s experience in contract and commercial management. Generally speaking, it takes between 6 months and 2 years to complete all four levels of certification.

To get started on the IACCM-CP program, candidates must first become members of the IACCM by signing up online or attending one of their conferences or seminars. Once they have become members they will be able to access the online courses and assessments associated with each level of certification.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are an individual member or an organizational member. For individuals it costs $495 USD per level while for organizations it costs $995 USD per level.

Do You Really Need a Purchasing Administrator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and current skill set. A Purchasing Administrator Certificate may be beneficial for certain individuals who are looking to expand their knowledge base and gain additional skills in the field of procurement. The certificate can provide a formal education in purchasing, which can help an individual become more knowledgeable about the industry, its regulations, and best practices. Additionally, the certificate can help an individual demonstrate proficiency in purchasing-related activities, such as vendor negotiations and contract management.

For those already employed in the purchasing field or who have some experience with the profession, a Purchasing Administrator Certificate may not be necessary. Depending on the individual's current job role and responsibilities, it may not be necessary to obtain a formal certification. However, if an individual is interested in advancing their career or obtaining a higher paying position within the purchasing sector, then obtaining a Purchasing Administrator Certificate may be beneficial. It could also assist in gaining approval for promotions or other professional opportunities within the company.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs to obtain a Purchasing Administrator Certificate depends on their career goals and current level of experience with procurement-related activities. Those new to the profession may benefit from obtaining such certification while those already employed in the sector may not need it depending on their job role and responsibilities.

Related: Purchasing Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Purchasing Administrator Certifications

1. What is a Purchasing Administrator Certification?

Answer: A Purchasing Administrator Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the field of purchasing, procurement, and supply chain management. This certification is typically offered through recognized organizations such as the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) or the Association for Purchasing Management (APM).

2. How do I get Certified as a Purchasing Administrator?

Answer: To become certified in this field, you must complete an approved program or course of study related to purchasing and supply chain management. After completing the program or course, you must pass an exam administered by either ISM or APM to demonstrate your understanding of concepts and best practices related to the field.

3. What are the Benefits of Becoming Certified?

Answer: Becoming certified provides individuals with greater credibility in the industry, making them more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, it can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs and promotions in their current organization. Finally, certifications can also provide access to exclusive resources and networks within the industry that may not be available to non-certified professionals.

4. How Much Does It Cost To Become Certified?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified will vary depending on which organization you choose to pursue your certification through as well as any additional materials needed for study purposes. Generally speaking, however, it can range anywhere from $400-$1,000 USD depending on your chosen program or course of study.

5. How Long Does It Take To Become Certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified will depend on how much time you are able to dedicate towards studying and preparing for the exam required by either ISM or APM. Generally speaking, however, it usually takes between 3-6 months to complete all necessary requirements and pass the exam successfully in order to obtain your certification.