Top 11 Senior Operations Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a senior operations manager in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has gained a certain level of knowledge and skill related to their field. They also show potential employers that the individual is committed to continuing their professional development and staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. Certifications can also be used to differentiate oneself from other job applicants, as it shows a level of dedication and expertise beyond what might be expected from someone without such credentials. Furthermore, certifications provide validation of one's qualifications, which can help build trust among employers and can increase an individual's chances of getting hired or promoted.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Senior Operations Managers, and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Senior Operations Manager Certifications?

Senior operations manager certification is a comprehensive professional development program designed to help experienced operations managers hone their skills and build on existing knowledge. The certification is offered by a number of organizations and can be tailored to meet the needs of specific industries or organizations. It provides an in-depth understanding of the various aspects of operations management, including strategic planning, process improvement, customer service, budgeting, financial analysis, project management, and team building.

This certification helps senior operations managers stay current with best practices and industry trends in order to maximize productivity and efficiency within their organization. It also enables them to strengthen their leadership skills and develop strategies that will benefit the entire organization. Senior operations manager certification also helps employers identify qualified individuals who have a deep understanding of the field. This makes it easier for employers to find the right person for a particular job or position. Furthermore, those who hold this certification are highly sought after by employers due to their expertise in managing complex organizational processes.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a senior operations manager, it is important to research and understand the certification requirements for your desired role. Many organizations require that you have completed a specific training program or obtained a professional certification in order to qualify for the position. Additionally, certifications can provide you with an edge in the job market and help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in operations management.

Related: What does a Senior Operations Manager do?

Top 11 Senior Operations Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). The CPSM certification recognizes individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage the global supply chain. It is designed to help supply management professionals develop their expertise, stay current on industry trends, and build credibility with employers.

The CPSM certification program consists of three levels: Foundation, Professional, and Executive. Each level requires passing an exam that tests knowledge in areas such as procurement and contracts, logistics and transportation, inventory management, supplier relationship management, and more. To become certified at each level, applicants must also have a certain amount of experience in the field.

It typically takes two to three years to complete all three levels of the CPSM program. However, some people may be able to complete it faster depending on their prior experience in the field.

To get started on your CPSM journey you will need to register for an ISM membership account and then submit your application for certification. The cost for each level of certification varies depending on your ISM membership status but generally ranges from $200-$600 USD per level.

2. Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help professionals in production, inventory, and related fields gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage operations. 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.

The CPIM program typically takes about six months to complete. To get certified, you must pass all five exams within three years. Each exam costs $295 USD plus an additional $50 USD for the application fee. You can also purchase study materials from APICS or other organizations that offer CPIM prep courses.

In addition to passing all five exams, you must also have two years of professional experience in production or inventory management or a related field before you can become certified. This experience must be verified by your employer or supervisor.

Overall, the cost for the CPIM certification varies depending on how much time it takes you to complete the program as well as any additional study materials you may need to purchase.

3. Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB)

Certified Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved mastery of the Six Sigma methodology and its tools. The certification is administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CSSBB certification requires a minimum of three years of work experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma body of knowledge, including project management, process improvement, quality control, and statistical analysis. Candidates must also pass an examination to demonstrate their mastery of these topics.

To get the CSSBB certification, candidates must first apply online with ASQ and submit proof of their work experience. Once approved, they can take the exam at an ASQ-approved testing center. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken and how soon you need your results. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD to take the CSSBB exam.

4. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s ability to manage projects in an effective and efficient manner. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the project management profession.

The PMP certification process includes taking an exam and meeting certain educational and experience requirements. To take the PMP exam, applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) plus at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a four-year degree plus at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

To apply for the PMP certification, applicants must submit an application form to PMI along with the required fees. The fees vary depending on whether you are a member of PMI or not. The total cost for non-members is $555 USD while members pay $405 USD.

Once your application has been approved, you will then be able to schedule your exam date through Prometric Testing Centers. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. After passing the exam, you will receive your official PMP certificate within 6–8 weeks.

Overall, it can take several months to complete all of the steps necessary to obtain your PMP certification. However, once obtained it can open up many opportunities in project management and help you stand out from other job candidates in the field.

5. Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt (LSSMBB)

Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt (LSSMBB) is a certification program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead Lean Six Sigma projects. It is an advanced level of certification that requires extensive experience in both Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.

The LSSMBB certification typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the individual's prior experience. To obtain the certification, individuals must demonstrate their knowledge of Lean and Six Sigma principles through a combination of coursework, exams, and project work. The cost for the LSSMBB program varies depending on the provider and can range from $3,000-$20,000.

In order to become certified as a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, individuals must have at least three years of professional experience leading or managing projects using Lean or Six Sigma methods; have completed at least two full-time Lean or Six Sigma projects; have completed a minimum of four weeks of classroom training in either Lean or Six Sigma; and pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ (American Society for Quality).

6. Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (CLSSGB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Green Belt (CLSSGB) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to analyze, design, and implement process improvements using the Lean Six Sigma approach. The CLSSGB certification is designed for professionals who are responsible for leading improvement projects and teams within their organization.

The CLSSGB certification requires applicants to complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The training program typically consists of 30-40 hours of instruction on topics such as project management, process mapping, data analysis, and problem solving.

It typically takes 4-6 weeks to complete the training program and pass the exam. The cost of obtaining the CLSSGB certification can vary depending on the provider but usually ranges from $1,500-$3,000 USD.

7. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CPIM-F/SCP Certification

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) CPIM-F/SCP Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates mastery of the principles and practices of supply chain management. This certification is designed to help supply chain professionals enhance their knowledge, skills, and abilities in order to improve their job performance. It also provides a competitive edge for those seeking employment or promotion in the field.

The APICS CPIM-F/SCP Certification consists of two exams: the Fundamentals of Supply Chain Management (CPIM-F) exam and the Strategic Supply Chain Professional (SCP) exam. The CPIM-F exam covers topics such as inventory management, demand forecasting, logistics, purchasing and procurement, production planning, quality control, and customer service. The SCP exam focuses on strategic supply chain topics such as global sourcing and supplier relationship management, enterprise resource planning systems, business process reengineering, and risk management.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for both exams. However, this timeline can vary depending on an individual’s experience level with supply chain concepts and processes. To prepare for the exams, APICS recommends taking its online courses or attending instructor-led classes at an APICS chapter near you. Additionally, there are several study materials available from APICS or other vendors that can help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of obtaining the APICS CPIM-F/SCP Certification varies depending on whether you take online courses or instructor-led classes. Online courses range from $450-$1125 per course while instructor-led classes range from $1450-$3500 per course. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $225 to register for both exams plus additional fees if you need to retake any part of either exam ($75 per retake).

Overall, obtaining the APICS CPIM-F/SCP Certification is an investment that can pay off in terms of increased job opportunities and salary potential in the field of supply chain management.

8. American Society for Quality - Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an understanding of the principles and practices of quality management and organizational excellence. This certification is suitable for professionals in all industries, including manufacturing, service, healthcare, government, education, and more.

To become certified as an ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality planning, quality control, customer satisfaction, process improvement, and more. Applicants must also demonstrate at least five years of experience in a related field.

The cost to take the exam is $399 for ASQ members or $499 for non-members. The exam typically takes around four hours to complete. Once the exam has been successfully passed and all other requirements have been met, applicants will be awarded the ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence credential.

9. International Association of Six Sigma Certification - Master Black Belt

The International Association of Six Sigma Certification (IASSC) Master Black Belt is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in Six Sigma. It is the highest level of Six Sigma certification available and is designed for those who are responsible for leading and managing Six Sigma projects within an organization.

In order to become certified as an IASSC Master Black Belt, individuals must first have earned their IASSC Certified Black Belt (CBB) designation. After achieving their CBB, they must then pass the IASSC Master Black Belt Exam, which tests their knowledge and understanding of advanced Six Sigma concepts and principles. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

To prepare for the exam, individuals can take an accredited course or self-study using materials such as textbooks, online courses, or practice exams. It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the exam, depending on how much time you dedicate to studying.

The cost of the IASSC Master Black Belt Exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This includes both the cost of registering for the exam and any associated study materials or courses you may need to purchase in order to prepare for it.

Once you have successfully passed the IASSC Master Black Belt Exam, you will receive an official certificate from IASSC recognizing your achievement as well as a digital badge that can be displayed on your website or social media profiles.

10. Institute of Industrial Engineers - Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management

The Institute of Industrial Engineers (IIE) Certified Professional in Production and Inventory Management (CPPIM) is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and expertise in production and inventory management. The CPPIM certification is designed to recognize the skills of professionals who are responsible for managing the production and inventory systems of their organization.

To obtain the CPPIM certification, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by IIE. The exam covers topics such as production planning and control, inventory management, supply chain management, project management, quality assurance, and cost analysis. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the CPPIM exam, applicants must have at least five years of relevant work experience in production or inventory management. Additionally, they must have completed at least two years of college-level coursework in business or engineering-related fields.

The cost for taking the CPPIM exam varies depending on the location of the test center. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD to take the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official CPPIM certification from IIE.

11. International Facility Management Association - Certified Facility Manager

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certified Facility Manager (CFM) program is an internationally recognized certification program that provides facility managers with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their profession. The CFM program is designed to give facility managers the opportunity to demonstrate their expertise, gain recognition for their accomplishments, and advance their careers.

It typically takes about 18-24 months to complete the CFM program. It consists of three parts: a self-assessment, an exam, and a portfolio review. For the self-assessment, applicants must complete a questionnaire to assess their knowledge of facility management topics. The exam is a multiple-choice test that covers topics such as operations and maintenance, financial management, project management, safety and security, sustainability, and customer service. Finally, applicants must submit a portfolio of work samples that demonstrate their proficiency in these areas.

The cost of the CFM program varies depending on your country of residence and membership status with IFMA. In the United States, it costs $800 for non-members or $600 for members. In Canada, it costs $900 for non-members or $700 for members.

Once you have completed all three components of the CFM program successfully, you will receive your certificate from IFMA indicating that you are now a Certified Facility Manager (CFM).

Do You Really Need a Senior Operations Manager Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Senior Operations Manager Certificate depends on your individual career goals and objectives. It is important to assess what you hope to gain from obtaining the certificate, and whether it can help you reach those goals.

For example, if you are seeking a promotion within your current organization, having the certificate may demonstrate that you have the qualifications necessary for the role. Additionally, if you are looking for a job outside of your current organization, the certificate may help set you apart from other candidates who do not have it. On the other hand, if your current job requires little operational management and does not involve senior operations management roles, then obtaining the certificate may not be necessary.

Ultimately, when deciding whether or not to pursue a Senior Operations Manager Certificate, it is important to consider how it will help advance your career in relation to your own individual goals and objectives. The certificate should provide tangible benefits that align with what you are hoping to achieve professionally.

Related: Senior Operations Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Senior Operations Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Senior Operations Manager Certification?

A1. A Senior Operations Manager Certification is a professional certification that validates the competency of an individual in managing and leading operations in an organization. It is typically offered by professional organizations and educational institutions and requires passing an exam to earn the credential.

Q2. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a Senior Operations Manager?

A2. Eligibility requirements vary depending on the issuing organization, but generally include having several years of experience in operations management, a bachelor’s degree or higher, and completion of any necessary coursework or training programs related to the certification.

Q3. How much does it cost to become certified as a Senior Operations Manager?

A3. The cost of becoming certified as a Senior Operations Manager varies depending on the certifying organization, but can range from $100-$500 for registration fees and exam costs.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Senior Operations Manager?

A4. The amount of time needed to become certified as a Senior Operations Manager depends on the specific program requirements set forth by each certifying organization, but typically takes several months or more to complete all necessary coursework or training programs and pass the required exam(s).

Q5. Are there continuing education requirements for maintaining my senior operations manager certification?

A5. Yes, most certifying organizations require ongoing continuing education credits (CEUs) to maintain your senior operations manager certification over time