Top 11 Regional Operations Manager Certifications
Updated 18 min read
Certifications are important for a regional operations manager in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that is necessary to effectively manage operations in a region. Certification programs also provide training and education on best practices in the field, which can make a regional operations manager more attractive to employers. Lastly, certifications can be used as proof of experience and qualifications when applying for jobs or promotions. Certifications can help a regional operations manager stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of landing the job they want.
The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Regional Operations Managers and explain how they can help advance their career.
What are Regional Operations Manager Certifications?
Regional operations manager certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in managing regional operations. It is usually offered by educational institutions, organizations, or private providers. The certification provides recognition for individuals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the field and can help them secure better job opportunities and higher salaries.
This certification is designed to help those who want to advance their career in the field of regional operations management. The program includes courses that cover the basics of regional operations management, such as budgeting, contract negotiation, personnel management, customer service, problem solving, and more. It also covers topics related to leadership development and strategic planning. By completing this certificate program, individuals can demonstrate their mastery of the subject matter and gain a competitive edge when applying for managerial positions.
In addition to providing specific knowledge related to regional operations management, this certification also helps develop skills that are essential for success in any business setting. These include communication skills, critical thinking abilities, decision-making abilities, conflict resolution techniques, problem-solving strategies, and organizational skills. With these tools in hand, certified professionals can become more effective leaders within their organizations and contribute to their success on a greater scale.
Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different regional operations manager certification programs available to ensure you are getting a program that meets your specific needs. Look for programs that offer specialized certifications in areas such as supply chain management, financial analysis, and customer service. Additionally, make sure the program is accredited by an organization recognized by the industry.
Related: What does a Regional Operations Manager do?
Top 11 Regional Operations Manager Certifications
Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Regional Operations Managers today.
1. Certified Regional Operations Manager (CROM)
Certified Regional Operations Manager (CROM) is a professional certification program for operations managers. It is designed to validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced operations managers in the areas of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling the activities of their organization. This certification is offered by the American Management Association (AMA).
The CROM certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in operations management. Candidates must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as strategic planning, process improvement, customer service management, and financial management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.
To obtain the CROM certification, candidates must submit an application form along with a fee of $395 USD. After submitting the application form, candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to register for the exam. Once they have registered for the exam, they can take it at any Prometric testing center in their area or online through ProctorU.
The cost of obtaining the CROM certification includes the $395 USD application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a Prometric testing center or using ProctorU services.
2. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)
Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a certification program for supply chain and procurement professionals. It is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPSM certification demonstrates that the individual has a comprehensive understanding of the principles, processes, and best practices associated with supply management.
The CPSM program consists of three parts: an initial exam, three years of professional experience in supply management, and continuing education credits. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an initial exam and then demonstrate three years of professional experience in supply management. After completing these requirements, applicants must complete 24 hours of continuing education credits every two years to maintain their certification.
The cost to take the initial exam is $550 USD for ISM members and $750 USD for non-members. The cost to renew the certification every two years is $100 USD for ISM members and $150 USD for non-members.
It typically takes around six months to one year to complete all requirements necessary to obtain the CPSM certification.
3. Project Management Professional (PMP)
Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in project management. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in managing projects.
It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on experience and study habits. To qualify for the PMP exam, individuals must have either a four-year degree or equivalent education, at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of formal project management education.
In order to obtain the PMP certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by the PMI. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not; members pay $405 while non-members pay $555. Additionally, there are other costs associated with obtaining the certification such as study materials and courses which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
4. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)
Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the skills and knowledge required to be successful in business analysis. CBAP certification is based on an examination that tests the candidate’s knowledge and experience in six key areas: business analysis planning and monitoring, requirements elicitation, requirements management and communication, enterprise analysis, solution assessment and validation, and business analysis techniques.
It typically takes 6-9 months to prepare for the CBAP exam. Preparation includes studying the IIBA BABOK Guide (Business Analysis Body of Knowledge), attending training courses, reading books related to business analysis topics, participating in study groups or forums, taking practice exams, and gaining practical experience in business analysis.
To get certified as a CBAP you must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having 7500 hours of business analysis experience over the past 10 years or less with at least 900 hours in 4 of the 6 knowledge areas tested on the exam. You must also submit an application form along with your resume/CV and references to IIBA before taking the exam.
The cost of obtaining CBAP certification varies depending on whether you are an IIBA member or not. For non-members it costs $325 USD for each attempt at the exam plus taxes where applicable. For members it costs $275 USD for each attempt at the exam plus taxes where applicable.
5. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve processes, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.
How long does it take to get it?
The length of time required to complete the certification process varies depending on the individual’s experience and commitment. Generally, most people can complete the training in 4-6 weeks if they are studying full-time.
How to get it?
To become certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must successfully complete an accredited training program and pass an examination administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ (American Society for Quality). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of Six Sigma principles, tools, and techniques.
How much does it cost?
The cost of becoming certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt typically ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD depending on the provider and type of course taken. This includes tuition fees, exam fees, and any additional materials or resources needed for the program.
6. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help professionals identify, analyze and solve problems within their organization. The certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the Lean Six Sigma principles, tools and techniques.
The certification process typically takes between 4-6 months to complete, depending on the program chosen. In order to become certified, individuals must first complete a training course in Lean Six Sigma principles and then pass an exam. Training courses can be taken online or in-person and usually include modules on DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology as well as project management.
The cost of the certification varies depending on the program chosen but typically ranges from $2,500 - $5,000 USD. However some programs may offer discounts for certain organizations or individuals.
In addition to completing a training course and passing an exam, many organizations require that applicants have at least 3 years of experience in a related field before they are eligible for certification.
7. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)
Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills related to quality management. The CQM credential is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).
It typically takes about six months to complete the requirements for the CQM certification. To become certified, applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements which include having a minimum of five years of experience in quality-related work. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as quality management principles, tools and techniques, and organizational performance improvement.
Once eligible, applicants can register for the exam through ASQ’s website. The cost of registration varies depending on whether or not you are an ASQ member; non-members pay $395 while members pay $295. After passing the exam, candidates must submit evidence of their experience in order to receive their certification.
Overall, obtaining the CQM certification requires dedication and commitment but can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in quality management.
8. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to recognize an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in production and inventory management. It is based on a comprehensive body of knowledge that covers topics such as demand management, procurement and supplier planning, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, sales and operations planning, master scheduling, performance measurements, supplier relationships, quality control, continuous improvement, lean production methods and more.
The CPIM program consists of two exams: the Basics of Supply Chain Management exam and the Master Planning of Resources exam. The Basics exam focuses on supply chain fundamentals while the Master Planning exam focuses on advanced concepts related to production and inventory management. To earn the CPIM designation, individuals must pass both exams within five years.
The cost of taking the CPIM exams varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or not. For members it costs $395 per exam; for non-members it costs $495 per exam. The cost includes registration fees as well as study materials such as textbooks or online courses.
It typically takes about six months to prepare for each CPIM exam; however this can vary depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each week. In order to get the most out of your preparation time it is important to have access to quality study materials such as textbooks or online courses that cover all areas of the CPIM body of knowledge in detail.
9. American Society for Quality – Quality Manager Certificate (ASQ-QMC)
The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Quality Manager Certificate (ASQ-QMC) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and skills in quality management. It is designed to help organizations improve their quality management systems and processes. The ASQ-QMC is a three-level certification program, with each level requiring successful completion of an exam.
Level 1: Certified Quality Manager (CQM): This level requires the successful completion of the CQM Exam, which covers topics such as quality management principles, process improvement techniques, and quality system design. This exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete and costs $395 USD.
Level 2: Certified Quality Engineer (CQE): This level requires the successful completion of the CQE Exam, which covers topics such as statistical analysis techniques, reliability engineering fundamentals, and quality control methods. This exam takes approximately 5 hours to complete and costs $495 USD.
Level 3: Certified Quality Auditor (CQA): This level requires the successful completion of the CQA Exam, which covers topics such as auditing fundamentals, risk management principles, and root cause analysis methods. This exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete and costs $395 USD.
In order to obtain any of these certifications, candidates must have at least five years of experience in a quality related field or have completed an accredited college degree program in a related field. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge by successfully completing all three levels of exams within a two year period from when they first pass their first exam. The total cost for obtaining all three certifications is $1,285 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exams.
10. Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution Professional (CLTD)
Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution Professional (CLTD) is a certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLTD credential is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered a comprehensive body of knowledge in logistics, transportation, and distribution. It is the most widely recognized certification for logistics, transportation and distribution professionals.
To obtain the CLTD credential, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as global logistics, supply chain management, freight movement operations, warehousing and inventory control. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in logistics or related field.
The exam fee for CLTD is $495 USD for AST&L members and $595 USD for non-members. Applicants can register online or by mail. Once registered, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online study materials which include practice tests and flashcards. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center across the world. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CLTD certificate within two weeks.
11. International Supply Chain Education Alliance – Supply Chain Operations Reference Professional Certification (ISCEA-SCOR-P).
The International Supply Chain Education Alliance (ISCEA) is a global organization dedicated to providing education and certification in the field of supply chain operations. The ISCEA-SCOR-P (Supply Chain Operations Reference Professional Certification) is a professional certification program that provides an industry-recognized credential for individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the SCOR (Supply Chain Operations Reference) model.
The SCOR model is a best practice framework for managing the end-to-end supply chain operations process. It focuses on key performance metrics such as cost, service, quality, risk, and sustainability. The ISCEA-SCOR-P certification program provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their organization’s supply chain processes and optimize performance.
The ISCEA-SCOR-P certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person examination. The online course covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, process mapping, data analysis, inventory management, and more. It typically takes between 8 to 12 weeks to complete the course depending on the individual's learning pace.
To obtain the ISCEA-SCOR-P certification, individuals must pass both parts of the program with a score of 80% or higher. Once certified, individuals are eligible for exclusive discounts on future ISCEA courses and products.
The cost of obtaining the ISCEA-SCOR-P certification varies depending on whether you register for the full program or just one part of it (the online course or exam). The full program costs $1,995 USD while individual parts cost $995 USD each.
Do You Really Need a Regional Operations Manager Certificate?
The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals and career aspirations. If a person is looking to advance their career in regional operations management, then obtaining a Regional Operations Manager Certificate could be beneficial. However, it is important to consider whether or not the certificate will truly provide value for the investment of time and money.
In some cases, having a Regional Operations Manager Certificate can help provide added credibility when applying for jobs or promotions. It can demonstrate knowledge and expertise in the field that may be attractive to employers. Additionally, some companies may require applicants to have a certain level of certification in order to be considered for certain positions.
On the other hand, it is important to consider that having a certificate alone does not guarantee success in any position. There are many other factors that come into play when landing a job or promotion such as experience, networking, and interpersonal skills. Therefore, before investing in any type of certification program, an individual should carefully consider if it will truly benefit them in their professional journey.
Related: Regional Operations Manager Resume Examples
FAQs About Regional Operations Manager Certifications
1. What qualifications do I need to become a Regional Operations Manager?
Answer: To become a Regional Operations Manager, you must have at least five years of experience in operations management or related fields, as well as a bachelor's degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field.
2. How long does it take to get certified as a Regional Operations Manager?
Answer: The certification process typically takes between three and six months depending on the program you choose and the amount of time you are able to devote to studying for the exam.
3. Are there any prerequisites for taking the Regional Operations Manager Certification Exam?
Answer: Yes, most programs require that applicants have at least five years of experience in operations management or related fields, as well as a bachelor's degree in business administration, operations management, or a related field before they can take the exam.
4. What topics are covered on the Regional Operations Manager Certification Exam?
Answer: The exam covers topics such as business planning and strategy development; financial analysis and decision-making; human resources management; supply chain management; customer service and quality control; organizational behavior; project management; and information technology systems.
5. How much does it cost to get certified as a Regional Operations Manager?
Answer: The cost of certification varies by program but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 depending on the course materials and testing fees associated with each program.