Top 11 Purchasing Director Certifications

Certifications are important for a purchasing director in the job market because they certify that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to carry out their duties. Having certifications can demonstrate that the individual is knowledgeable in their field and has been trained to make sound decisions when it comes to purchasing decisions. It also serves as an additional qualification that can help potential employers get a better sense of the applicant’s ability and qualifications. Additionally, certifications may be required by some employers, so having them can be beneficial when applying for jobs.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Purchasing Directors and explain how they can enhance a purchasing director's career.

What are Purchasing Director Certifications?

Purchasing Director certification is a professional credential that demonstrates proficiency in the field of purchasing management. It is typically awarded by a professional organization or an educational institution after an individual has met certain requirements, such as completing a training program or passing an exam. This certification can be beneficial to those who wish to further their career in purchasing management and demonstrate their ability to handle the responsibilities associated with this position. The certification can help individuals stand out amongst other job applicants and gain recognition from employers for their specialized knowledge and skills. Additionally, it can help them stay current on industry trends and best practices, and provide access to resources that could potentially increase efficiency in the workplace.

Pro Tip: When purchasing director certification, make sure to research the certifying organization and ensure that their program is recognized by relevant industry bodies. Additionally, it's important to consider the cost of certification, as well as any additional training or continuing education requirements that may be necessary for maintaining the certification.

Related: What does a Purchasing Director do?

Top 11 Purchasing Director Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Purchasing Directors today.

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is an internationally recognized certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional competence in supply management. The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Advanced, and Mastery.

The Foundation level requires candidates to pass two exams covering the fundamentals of supply management. This level typically takes 8-12 months to complete.

The Advanced level requires candidates to pass two additional exams and demonstrate their experience in the field. This level typically takes 12-18 months to complete.

The Mastery level requires candidates to pass one final exam and demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter through a project or case study. This level typically takes 18-24 months to complete.

To get certified, you must first become a member of ISM and then register for the CPSM program. The cost for membership and registration varies depending on your country of residence, but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD for all three levels combined.

2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate excellence in the field of purchasing and supply chain management. The CPM credential is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), an organization that provides education, training, and certifications for supply chain professionals.

The CPM program requires individuals to pass an exam that covers topics such as procurement processes, supplier selection, contract management, and risk management. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in a purchasing or supply chain role.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam is $595 USD for ISM members and $795 USD for non-members. Once the exam is passed, individuals receive their CPM certification from ISM.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is an internationally recognized certification program developed by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to help supply chain professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage global supply chain activities. The CSCP certification demonstrates a mastery of supply chain management best practices, including topics such as demand planning, procurement and sourcing, manufacturing operations, inventory management, logistics, customer service, and more.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: a self-study course with online resources; a comprehensive exam; and professional development activities. The self-study course can take anywhere from three to six months to complete depending on the individual's learning style and schedule. After completing the coursework, individuals must pass a rigorous three-hour exam that covers all aspects of supply chain management. Finally, applicants must participate in professional development activities such as conferences or workshops that are related to their field of study.

To get certified as a CSCP, individuals must have at least five years of experience in supply chain management or related fields. Those who do not meet this requirement may still be eligible for certification if they have completed an approved APICS training program or have taken certain college courses related to supply chain management.

The cost for becoming certified as a CSCP varies depending on the country in which you are located and whether you choose to take part in any additional training programs or workshops offered by APICS. Generally speaking, the cost for taking the exam is around $795 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

4. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM certification recognizes individuals who have achieved a comprehensive understanding of production and inventory management concepts. This certification is ideal for professionals who are looking to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field.

The CPIM program consists of five modules: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling and Planning, Execution and Control of Operations, and Strategic Management of Resources. Each module must be completed within 18 months from the date of registration.

To get certified, candidates must first register with APICS and then complete all five modules. Once all five modules have been completed, candidates must pass an exam for each module to receive their certification. The exams are administered by Prometric Testing Centers throughout the United States and Canada.

The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on the type of membership you have with APICS. If you are not a member, it will cost $1,495 USD to register for the program plus $395 USD per exam ($1,975 USD total). If you are an APICS Plus or Premier Member, it will cost $995 USD to register plus $395 USD per exam ($1,575 USD total).

5. Global Professional in Supply Management (GPSM)

Global Professional in Supply Management (GPSM) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the expertise of supply chain professionals. The GPSM certification is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a professional association for supply management professionals.

The GPSM program consists of three parts: an online assessment, a one-day workshop, and an exam. The online assessment will assess the candidate’s knowledge in areas such as supply chain strategy, operations, sourcing, logistics, and technology. After passing the assessment, candidates can attend the one-day workshop which covers topics such as demand planning, supplier relationship management, and inventory management. Finally, candidates must pass a two-hour exam to earn their GPSM certification.

To get GPSM certified, you must first register with ISM and pay the associated fee which is currently $595 USD for members or $795 USD for non-members. You will then be able to take the online assessment and attend the one-day workshop if you pass it. Once you have completed both components successfully, you can take the exam at any of ISM’s global testing centers. The entire process typically takes about 6 months from start to finish.

6. American Purchasing Society’s Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP)

The Certified Purchasing Professional (CPP) is a professional certification offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in purchasing, procurement, and supply chain management. The CPP designation indicates that the individual has met rigorous standards of knowledge and experience in the field.

To become a CPP, an individual must meet certain prerequisites and pass a comprehensive examination. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least five years of full-time purchasing or related experience, or three years of full-time purchasing or related experience plus an accredited degree in business or a related field.

The CPP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as purchasing fundamentals, supplier relations, contract law, cost analysis techniques, inventory control systems, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and is administered online through APS’s testing partner Prometric.

The cost for taking the CPP exam is $450 for APS members and $600 for non-members. Additionally, there are fees associated with recertification every three years ($150 for members/$200 for non-members).

7. Institute for Supply Management’s Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP)

The Certified Professional Purchaser (CPP) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of purchasing. The CPP certification provides purchasers with an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to professional development, as well as their ability to effectively manage procurement activities.

In order to become a Certified Professional Purchaser, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a comprehensive exam. To be eligible, applicants must have at least three years of relevant purchasing experience or two years of relevant purchasing experience plus an associate’s degree or higher in business or related field. Additionally, applicants must complete an online application and submit supporting documentation such as transcripts and letters of recommendation.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as procurement processes, supply chain management, contract law, negotiation skills, pricing strategies, risk management and ethics. The exam is administered twice per year in April and October.

The cost for the CPP certification varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For ISM members, the fee is $650; for non-members it is $850. Additionally, there are fees associated with re-taking the exam if necessary ($250 for members/$450 for non-members).

Overall, obtaining the CPP certification can be a valuable investment in your career as it demonstrates your commitment to professional development and mastery of purchasing principles.

8. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply’s Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Qualified Practitioner (CIPSQP)

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Qualified Practitioner (CIPSQP) is a professional qualification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the procurement and supply industry. It is designed to demonstrate that holders have the knowledge and skills necessary to lead, manage and deliver successful procurement outcomes for their organizations.

To become a CIPSQP, you must first complete the CIPS Level 6 Diploma in Procurement & Supply. This diploma consists of seven modules covering topics such as risk management, contract law, negotiation techniques and sustainability. The program can be completed over 12 months or longer depending on your individual circumstances. Once you have successfully completed the diploma, you will then be eligible to take the CIPSQP exam.

The cost of becoming a CIPSQP varies depending on your country of residence and how you choose to study for the diploma. In some countries, there are government-funded programs available that cover part or all of the costs associated with studying for the qualification. Alternatively, you can choose to self-study for the diploma by purchasing textbooks or taking online courses from providers such as CIPS Global Learning Centre.

Once you have successfully completed both parts of the qualification process – completing the diploma and passing the exam – you will then receive your official CIPSQP designation from CIPS. This is an internationally recognized qualification that demonstrates your commitment to excellence in procurement and supply chain management.

In summary, becoming a CIPSQP requires completing a Level 6 Diploma in Procurement & Supply followed by passing an exam administered by CIPS. The cost varies depending on where you live and how you choose to study for it but generally ranges from £2,500 - £5,000 GBP (approximately $3,300 - $6,600 USD).

9. International Association for Contract and Commercial Management’s Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM)

The Certified Commercial Contract Manager (CCCM) is a professional certification offered by the International Association for Contract and Commercial Management (IACCM). It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of contract and commercial management.

The CCCM certification requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of the best practices, principles, and processes associated with contract and commercial management. To qualify for the CCCM certification, applicants must have at least five years of relevant professional experience in contract or commercial management and must pass an examination covering topics such as risk management, negotiation strategies, legal principles, pricing models, dispute resolution techniques, technology solutions, and more.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for the CCCM certification. Applicants must first submit an application form along with supporting documents such as educational transcripts or work experience letters. Once approved by IACCM’s Certification Board, applicants will be required to attend a two-day training course followed by an online exam. Upon successful completion of both components of the program, applicants will receive their CCCM certificate.

The cost of obtaining the CCCM certification varies depending on whether you are an IACCM member or not. For non-members, it costs $1,495 USD; however members receive discounted rates starting from $995 USD.

10. National Association of Purchasing Managers’ Certified Purchasing Executive (CPE)

The National Association of Purchasing Managers’ Certified Purchasing Executive (CPE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of purchasing professionals. The CPE certification is globally recognized and provides evidence of an individual’s commitment to excellence in the field of purchasing.

To become certified, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. To be eligible for the CPE certification, applicants must have at least five years of full-time professional experience in purchasing or related areas such as supply chain management and logistics. In addition, applicants must also have a bachelor's degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as procurement processes and procedures, contract law, supplier management, ethics and risk management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at designated testing centers across the United States.

The cost for taking the CPE exam is $400 for NAPM members and $500 for non-members. Once certified, individuals may choose to maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits every three years.

11. International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management's Executive Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

The International Federation of Purchasing and Supply Management (IFPSM) Executive Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management is a professional qualification designed to equip those working in the purchasing and supply chain management sector with the necessary skills, knowledge, and expertise to lead their organizations to success.

The program consists of four modules:

1. Introduction to Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

2. Strategic Sourcing and Contracting

3. Negotiation Skills for Procurement Professionals

4. Logistics, Distribution, and Warehousing

It takes approximately six months to complete the diploma program. During this time, students must attend three days of classroom instruction for each module as well as complete self-study assignments for each module. Upon completion of all four modules, students will receive their IFPSM Executive Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management.

The cost of the program varies depending on the country in which it is taken but typically ranges from €2,000 - €3,000 (approx. $2,400 - $3,600 USD). The cost includes course materials, classroom instruction fees, examination fees, and any other associated costs such as travel expenses or accommodation if required.

To get the IFPSM Executive Diploma in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management you must first meet certain eligibility criteria such as having a minimum of 3 years’ experience in a related field or having completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline. Once eligible you can apply online via the IFPSM website or contact your local IFPSM representative for more information about how to apply.

Do You Really Need a Purchasing Director Certificate?

Whether you need a Purchasing Director Certificate or not depends on your career goals. A certificate can demonstrate your understanding of the principles of purchasing and provide you with the credibility to help you stand out among other job applicants. Additionally, a certificate can serve as proof of your knowledge and expertise in purchasing, which is an important part of many organizations’ operations.

However, if you have already achieved success in the field without a certificate, then one may not be necessary for you. It is important to consider what kind of job opportunities are available to you and how having a certificate would benefit those opportunities. For example, if there are no positions that would require certification or if the positions available do not require certification, then it might not be worth pursuing a Purchasing Director Certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Purchasing Director Certificate will depend largely on your career goals and the job opportunities available to you. If having certification would open up new job opportunities or give you an edge over other applicants, then it may be worth pursuing this type of certification. However, if there are no job opportunities that require certification or if having certification would not give you any additional benefits over other applicants, then getting certified may not be necessary for your career goals.

Related: Purchasing Director Resume Examples

FAQs About Purchasing Director Certifications

Q1. What is a Purchasing Director Certification?

A1. A Purchasing Director Certification is a professional certification program that provides recognition for individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the skills and knowledge required to be successful in the field of purchasing and procurement. The certification covers topics such as inventory management, cost analysis, supplier relationships, strategic sourcing, and contract negotiations.

Q2. How do I become eligible for a Purchasing Director Certification?

A2. To become eligible for a Purchasing Director Certification, you must meet certain requirements such as having at least five years of experience in the field of procurement and/or purchasing, completing an approved course in the fundamentals of purchasing and/or procurement, passing a written exam administered by the certifying organization, and paying any associated fees.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Purchasing Director?

A3. There are many benefits to becoming certified as a Purchasing Director including increased job security and opportunities for promotion within your current organization or when seeking employment elsewhere. Additionally, being certified may lead to higher salaries or access to higher-level positions within an organization due to your demonstrated expertise in the field of procurement and/or purchasing.

Q4. What type of organizations offer Purchasing Director Certifications?

A4. Organizations offering Purchasing Director Certifications include professional associations such as ISM (Institute for Supply Management), APICS (Association for Operations Management), CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply) and NIGP (National Institute of Governmental Procurement). Additionally, some universities may also offer certificate programs related to this profession.

Q5. How long does it take to complete a Purchasing Director Certification program?

A5: The length of time needed to complete a Purchasing Director Certification program will vary depending on the organization offering it; however most programs can be completed in one year or less if all requirements are met on time.