Top 11 Retail Assistant Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for retail assistant managers in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence and a mastery of relevant skills. Certifications provide proof that an individual has been trained and is qualified to perform certain tasks, which can make them stand out from other applicants. Additionally, certifications may be required for certain positions or organizations, so having the necessary certifications can increase an individual’s chances of being hired. Finally, certifications can also provide retail assistant managers with competitive advantages in terms of salary and promotions.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Retail Assistant Managers and explains how they can help to enhance their career prospects.

What are Retail Assistant Manager Certifications?

Retail assistant manager certification is a program that provides training and professional development for those who work in retail management. This certification is designed to help individuals gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful retail managers. The program includes courses on topics such as customer service, sales and marketing, inventory management, human resources, financial management, and more.

The goal of the certification is to help retail assistant managers better understand their roles in the workplace and develop the necessary skills to succeed in this field. With this certification, individuals can learn how to effectively communicate with customers, manage employees, create budgets and forecasts, and maximize profits. This certification also teaches individuals how to develop strategies for increasing sales and customer satisfaction.

Having a retail assistant manager certification can give an individual an edge when applying for jobs or promotions within the company. Additionally, having this type of certification can demonstrate commitment to one’s career path and show potential employers that they are a dedicated employee who takes their job seriously. Ultimately, having a retail assistant manager certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants while helping them advance their career in retail management.

Pro Tip: When considering a retail assistant manager certification, be sure to research the certifying body to ensure their accreditation is reputable and up-to-date. Additionally, look into the course structure and exam requirements to make sure that it covers all of the skills you need for your role.

Related: What does a Retail Assistant Manager do?

Top 11 Retail Assistant Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Retail Operations Professional (CROP)

Certified Retail Operations Professional (CROP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to recognize and reward retail professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their field. The CROP certification provides recognition of an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities in the areas of retail operations, customer service, merchandising and marketing.

It takes approximately 6-8 months to complete the CROP program. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have at least two years of full-time experience in the retail industry or related fields. Applicants must also pass an online assessment that covers topics such as store operations, customer service, merchandising and marketing. Once accepted into the program, participants will complete a series of courses and exams that cover all aspects of retail operations.

The cost for the CROP certification varies depending on which level of certification you are pursuing. The basic level costs $495 while the advanced level costs $795. There are also additional fees for books and materials required for each course. Additionally, there may be additional fees for retaking any exams or renewing your certification every three years.

2. Certified Retail Manager (CRM)

Certified Retail Manager (CRM) is a professional certification offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to recognize and reward retail professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the retail industry. The certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least three years of full-time retail management experience, passing an exam administered by the NRF, and completing a minimum of 24 hours of approved continuing education courses within three years. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as store operations, customer service, marketing and sales, inventory control, human resources management, financials, and legal/regulatory issues.

The cost to take the CRM exam is $275 for NRF members or $375 for non-members. Once certified, there are annual dues associated with maintaining the certification which vary depending on membership status.

Overall, becoming a Certified Retail Manager requires dedication and commitment to staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. However, it also provides tangible benefits such as increased job opportunities and salary potential.

3. Certified Professional in Retail Management (CPRM)

Certified Professional in Retail Management (CPRM) is a certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in retail management. The CPRM certification is intended to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in the retail industry, as well as their commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the field.

The CPRM certification requires applicants to have at least five years of professional experience in the retail industry, along with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, store operations and merchandising, financial analysis, marketing and sales, and human resources management.

The process of obtaining a CPRM certification typically takes between three and six months. The first step is to submit an application and fee to NRF. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will be awarded their CPRM certificate.

The cost of obtaining a CPRM certification varies depending on whether you are already an NRF member or not. For non-members, it costs $495 for the application fee plus $395 for the exam fee. For members of NRF, it costs $295 for the application fee plus $395 for the exam fee.

4. Certified Retail Store Manager (CRSM)

Certified Retail Store Manager (CRSM) is a professional certification program designed to help retail store managers become more effective in their roles. The program is offered through the National Retail Federation and covers topics such as customer service, merchandising, human resources, financial management, and operations.

The CRSM certification process consists of three parts: an online assessment, a one-day workshop, and an on-site evaluation. The online assessment takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions related to retail management topics. After completing the assessment, participants must attend a one-day workshop that covers topics like customer service, store operations, and human resources. Finally, participants must pass an on-site evaluation where they demonstrate their ability to manage a retail store effectively.

The cost of the CRSM certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. It usually takes about three months to complete the entire process from start to finish.

5. Certified Retail Sales Professional (CRSP)

Certified Retail Sales Professional (CRSP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize retail sales professionals who demonstrate excellence in customer service, product knowledge, and sales. The CRSP program was developed by the National Retail Federation (NRF) and administered by the Professional Retail Store Maintenance Association (PRSM).

The CRSP certification is valid for three years and requires renewal every three years. To earn the CRSP designation, individuals must complete an online training course, pass a written exam, and submit an application to the NRF. The training course covers topics such as customer service, retail operations, merchandising, marketing, and more.

The cost of the CRSP certification varies depending on the individual’s membership status with PRSM. Non-members pay $350 for the initial certification fee plus $50 each year for renewal fees; members pay $250 for the initial fee plus $25 each year for renewal fees.

Overall, earning the Certified Retail Sales Professional designation can help retail sales professionals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in customer service and product knowledge.

6. Certified Merchandising Professional (CMP)

Certified Merchandising Professional (CMP) is a professional certification program that provides merchandisers with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in their field. It is designed to help merchandisers understand the principles of retail, including product selection, pricing, promotion, display, and customer service. The certification program consists of two parts: an online course and a final exam.

The online course covers topics such as marketing fundamentals, product selection and pricing strategies, visual merchandising techniques, store operations management, customer service best practices, and more. The course takes approximately 20 hours to complete.

Once the online course is completed, candidates must pass a final exam in order to receive their CMP certification. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that cover all aspects of retail merchandising. Candidates have up to three hours to complete the exam.

The cost for the CMP certification program varies depending on the provider; however, most programs cost between $500-$700 USD.

7. National Retail Federation Certification Program (NRF-CP)

The National Retail Federation Certification Program (NRF-CP) is a comprehensive program for retail professionals. It provides certification in the areas of retail management, operations, and customer service. The program is designed to help retail professionals enhance their knowledge and skills in order to better serve customers and increase sales.

The NRF-CP consists of three levels: Certified Professional (CP), Advanced Professional (AP), and Executive Professional (EP). Each level requires different levels of experience, education, and training. The CP level requires at least two years of retail experience or equivalent education; the AP level requires five years of experience or equivalent education; and the EP level requires eight years of experience or equivalent education.

To get certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as retail operations, customer service, merchandising, marketing, finance, human resources management, and technology. The exam is administered by Prometric Testing Centers located throughout the United States.

The cost for the NRF-CP varies depending on the level being sought. For the CP level it costs $225; for the AP level it costs $325; and for the EP level it costs $425. Additionally there are fees associated with taking the exam at a Prometric Testing Center which range from $50-$100 depending on location.

It typically takes about 6-8 weeks to receive results after taking an NRF-CP exam. Those who pass will receive a certificate from the National Retail Federation indicating their certification status along with a digital badge they can use on their website or social media profiles to showcase their credentials.

8. American Marketing Association’s Certified Marketing Manager (AMCM)

The American Marketing Association’s Certified Marketing Manager (AMCM) is a professional certification for marketing professionals. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of marketing professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in their field. The AMCM certification is offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA), a professional association for marketing professionals.

The AMCM certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as strategic planning, market research, customer segmentation, product management, pricing strategies, digital marketing, and more. To be eligible for the AMCM certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in marketing or related fields.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for the AMCM certification. Applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics including strategic planning, market research, customer segmentation, product management, pricing strategies, digital marketing and more. The exam fee is $395 USD. After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application packet that includes their resume and a portfolio of work demonstrating their expertise in marketing. Once approved by the AMA board of directors, applicants will receive their certificate within four to six weeks after submission of all required materials.

The cost of the AMCM certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of the AMA. For members it costs $395 USD for the exam fee plus $50 USD for processing fees; non-members pay an additional $75 USD registration fee plus $50 USD processing fees on top of the exam fee ($470 USD total).

9. Institute of Certified Professional Managers’ Certified Retail Manager Program (ICPM-CRM)

The Institute of Certified Professional Managers’ Certified Retail Manager Program (ICPM-CRM) is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of professionals in the retail industry. The program provides an opportunity for individuals to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to excellence in retail management.

The ICPM-CRM is a two-level certification program. The first level, Certified Retail Manager (CRM), requires successful completion of an online course and a comprehensive examination. Upon successful completion of this level, individuals are awarded the CRM designation.

The second level, Advanced Certified Retail Manager (ACRM), requires successful completion of additional online courses and a more advanced examination. Upon successful completion of this level, individuals are awarded the ACRM designation.

It typically takes about six months to complete both levels of the ICPM-CRM program. To get started, individuals must register for the program through the Institute's website and pay a fee that covers registration costs and access to course materials. Once registered, participants have access to all course materials as well as support from experienced instructors throughout the duration of their studies.

The cost for both levels combined is approximately $1,000 USD plus applicable taxes.

10. National Council of Chain Restaurants’ Chain Restaurant Management Certification Program (NCCR-CRMC)

The National Council of Chain Restaurants’ Chain Restaurant Management Certification Program (NCCR-CRMC) is a comprehensive training and certification program designed to provide managers in the chain restaurant industry with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in their roles. The program is administered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

The NCCR-CRMC program consists of four courses that cover topics such as food safety, customer service, operations management, marketing, financial management, and human resources. The courses are offered online or in-person at NRAEF training centers. Each course takes approximately 8 hours to complete and must be completed within 12 months of enrollment. Upon successful completion of all four courses, participants will receive a certificate from the NRAEF.

To enroll in the NCCR-CRMC program, applicants must submit an online application with a $50 fee. Applicants must also have at least two years of restaurant management experience or equivalent education. Once accepted into the program, participants will be provided access to course materials and assessments.

The cost for completing the NCCR-CRMC program varies depending on whether you take the courses online or in person. For online courses, it costs $500 for all four courses; for in-person classes, it costs $750 for all four courses plus travel expenses if applicable.

11. International Council of Shopping Centers’ Shopping Center Management Certification Program (ICSC-SCMC).

The International Council of Shopping Centers’ Shopping Center Management Certification Program (ICSC-SCMC) is a professional certification program designed to provide shopping center professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and operate a successful shopping center. The program consists of two parts: the Core Course, which covers topics such as leasing, marketing, operations, finance, law and technology; and the Advanced Course, which focuses on specialized topics such as tenant relations, asset management and financial analysis.

The ICSC-SCMC program typically takes six to eight months to complete. The Core Course can be completed in four weeks while the Advanced Course requires an additional four weeks. In order to become certified, applicants must pass both courses with a minimum score of 80%.

In order to apply for the ICSC-SCMC program, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and transcripts from any relevant college or university courses they have taken. Additionally, applicants must have at least three years of experience in shopping center management or related fields.

The cost of the ICSC-SCMC program varies depending on whether you are a member of ICSC or not. For non-members, the cost is $1,250 for both courses combined. For members of ICSC, the cost is $1125 for both courses combined.

Do You Really Need a Retail Assistant Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a retail assistant manager certificate in order to become a successful retail assistant manager. However, having a certificate can be beneficial in helping you advance your career and increase your knowledge of the field.

A certificate program can provide you with the tools and skills necessary to help you understand the day-to-day operations of managing a retail store. You will learn about customer service, sales techniques, inventory management, and more. You will also gain valuable insight into the various aspects of the retail industry. This knowledge can be used to help you excel in your role as an assistant manager.

Having a certificate can also give employers confidence in your abilities when they are considering hiring you for a position. It shows that you have taken the initiative to learn more about how to manage a retail store and can demonstrate that you are committed to being successful in the role. Additionally, it may give employers peace of mind that they are hiring someone who is knowledgeable and experienced enough for their particular job requirements.

In summary, although having a retail assistant manager certificate may not be required for success in this field, it can definitely help you stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of getting hired or promoted within this industry.

Related: Retail Assistant Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Retail Assistant Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Retail Assistant Manager Certification?

A1. A Retail Assistant Manager Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the areas of retail operations, customer service, human resources, and leadership. It provides employers with assurance that the individual has the skills necessary to effectively manage a retail team.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Retail Assistant Manager Certification?

A2. Obtaining a Retail Assistant Manager Certification offers several benefits, including increased job security, higher salaries, and improved career opportunities. Additionally, it can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in retail management as having this certification often makes them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions.

Q3. How do I obtain a Retail Assistant Manager Certification?

A3. To obtain a Retail Assistant Manager Certification, individuals must typically complete an accredited program or course and pass an exam administered by an approved industry organization such as the National Retail Federation (NRF).

Q4. How long does it take to get a Retail Assistant Manager Certification?

A4. The amount of time it takes to get certified varies depending on the program chosen and individual's ability to study and prepare for the exam; however, most programs require approximately 150 hours of study time prior to taking the exam.

Q5. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Retail Assistant Manager Certification?

A5. Yes, there are costs associated with obtaining a certification; these typically include fees for registration, course materials, and exam fees.