Top 11 Sourcing Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for sourcing specialists in the job market because they demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence and provide proof of specialized knowledge in the field. Certified sourcing specialists have a greater chance of being hired by employers who are looking for individuals with proven skills and expertise. Certifications also allow professionals to stay up-to-date on industry trends, make connections with other professionals, gain access to exclusive resources, and increase their credibility. In addition, certifications can open up opportunities for promotions or higher salaries.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Sourcing Specialists and explains how they can help enhance a sourcing specialist's career.

What are Sourcing Specialist Certifications?

Sourcing specialist certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a person's expertise in the field of sourcing. Sourcing specialists are professionals who specialize in finding and negotiating cost-effective suppliers for products and services. They have an understanding of the supply chain, sourcing strategies, supplier selection criteria, and contract negotiation skills.

Sourcing specialist certification can help those looking to break into the field or enhance their current career path by providing them with a comprehensive set of skills necessary to be successful in the role. It also provides evidence to employers that candidates possess the knowledge and experience needed to identify suppliers, negotiate favorable contracts, and secure cost savings. Additionally, it helps demonstrate a commitment to professionalism and continuing education in the field of sourcing.

For those already working as sourcing specialists, obtaining certification can provide them with greater job security as they become more knowledgeable about their profession. It also serves as an opportunity for advancement within their organization or into more senior-level roles as they prove their competency in their field through certification. Certification may also open up opportunities to work with larger companies or organizations which may require higher levels of qualification than entry-level positions.

Overall, sourcing specialist certification can be valuable tool for those looking to break into the field or advance their career by demonstrating their knowledge and expertise in this important area of business operations.

Pro Tip: When sourcing specialist certifications, it's important to research the organization or individual offering them. Check for reviews, accreditation, and any other information that may help you understand their level of expertise in the field. Additionally, make sure the certification will be recognized by employers or organizations relevant to your chosen field.

Related: What does a Sourcing Specialist do?

Top 11 Sourcing Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Sourcing Specialists today.

1. Certified Sourcing Professional (CSP)

Certified Sourcing Professional (CSP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of sourcing. The CSP certification is awarded by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), an organization that provides training and certifications for supply chain professionals.

The CSP certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of sourcing principles, processes, techniques, and best practices. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to analyze and interpret data related to sourcing activities, as well as their understanding of the legal and ethical implications of sourcing decisions.

In order to obtain the CSP certification, candidates must complete a comprehensive exam. This exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as procurement strategy, supplier selection, negotiation tactics, contract management, and risk management. Candidates are given three hours to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the CSP exam is $495 USD for ISM members and $595 USD for non-members. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $50 USD to apply for the certification once you have passed the exam. The entire process can take up to six weeks from start to finish.

2. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise and professionalism in the field of supply management.

The CPSM program consists of three levels: Foundation, Professional and Executive. Each level requires successful completion of an exam as well as meeting certain educational and experience requirements.

To obtain the Foundation level, applicants must pass the ISM Foundation Exam, which covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, procurement best practices, and supplier relationship management. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $250 USD.

To obtain the Professional level, applicants must pass both the ISM Professional Exam and one additional specialty exam. The Professional Exam covers topics such as inventory management, contract management, and global sourcing. The specialty exams cover areas such as transportation/logistics or technology/e-commerce. Each exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $250 USD per exam.

To obtain the Executive level, applicants must pass both the ISM Executive Exam and two additional specialty exams. The Executive Exam covers topics such as strategic sourcing, organizational change management, and risk management. The specialty exams cover areas such as transportation/logistics or technology/e-commerce. Each exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $250 USD per exam.

In total, it typically takes 12–18 months to successfully complete all three levels of the CPSM program with associated exams costing $750–$1125 USD depending on which specialty exams are taken.

3. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise and knowledge of experienced purchasing professionals. The CPM designation is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a leading professional organization for supply chain and procurement management.

To earn the CPM, candidates must have at least five years of full-time experience in purchasing or related fields, such as supply chain management, inventory control, logistics, or materials management. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by ISM to demonstrate their knowledge of purchasing principles and practices.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as supplier selection and evaluation, contract law, inventory control, cost analysis and negotiation strategies. It takes approximately four hours to complete the exam.

Candidates can register for the CPM exam through ISM's website. The cost of registration is $595 for members of ISM or $795 for non-members. Once registered, candidates can schedule their exams at one of ISM's testing centers located throughout the United States.

4. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in supply chain management. The CSCP certification is recognized globally as a benchmark of excellence in supply chain management.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online assessment, an online course, and a final exam. The online assessment tests your current knowledge of supply chain management principles and practices. The online course provides comprehensive instruction on topics such as global logistics, inventory management, customer service, and more. The final exam tests your understanding of the material covered in the course and assesses your ability to apply it to real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about six months to complete all three parts of the CSCP program. However, some individuals may be able to complete it faster or slower depending on their prior experience and learning style.

To get certified as a CSCP, you must first register for the program through ASCM’s website. After registering, you will receive access to the online assessment and course materials. Once you have completed both parts successfully, you can then schedule your final exam at a testing center near you.

The cost of the CSCP program varies depending on whether or not you are an ASCM member. For non-members, the total cost is $995 USD; for members, it is $795 USD. Additionally, there are additional fees associated with scheduling and taking the final exam at a testing center ($125 USD for non-members; $100 USD for members).

5. Global Sourcing Certification Program (GSCP)

The Global Sourcing Certification Program (GSCP) is an online certification program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful global sourcing practitioners. The program was developed by the Global Sourcing Council (GSC), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of global sourcing.

The GSCP consists of three courses: Introduction to Global Sourcing, Advanced Global Sourcing Practices, and Professional Development in Global Sourcing. Each course is self-paced and can be taken at any time from anywhere in the world. The program typically takes about 12 weeks to complete all three courses, but it can take longer depending on the individual's learning speed and availability.

To get certified, individuals must pass an exam after completing each course and demonstrate their understanding of global sourcing principles by completing a project or case study. The cost of the GSCP varies depending on which course package you choose; however, all packages include access to online materials, instructor support, and a certificate upon completion.

6. Strategic Sourcing Certification Program (SSCP)

The Strategic Sourcing Certification Program (SSCP) is a professional certification program designed to help organizations and individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage their sourcing activities. The program is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

The SSCP certification program consists of three levels: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Each level requires a different set of courses, exams and experience.

Level 1: This level focuses on basic strategic sourcing principles, such as understanding the supply chain, developing supplier relationships, managing contracts, and managing risk. It requires completion of two online courses (Introduction to Strategic Sourcing and Advanced Strategic Sourcing), plus an exam. The total cost for this level is $1,295 USD.

Level 2: This level focuses on advanced topics such as negotiation strategies, pricing models, supplier performance management, and sustainability in sourcing. It requires completion of four online courses (Advanced Negotiation Strategies; Supplier Performance Management; Pricing Models; Sustainable Sourcing), plus an exam. The total cost for this level is $2,495 USD.

Level 3: This level focuses on leadership skills such as change management, communication strategies, conflict resolution techniques, and project management tools. It requires completion of six online courses (Leadership Strategies; Change Management; Communication Strategies; Conflict Resolution Techniques; Project Management Tools; Strategic Leadership), plus an exam. The total cost for this level is $3,995 USD.

In order to obtain the SSCP certification you must complete all three levels within five years from when you first register for the program. You can also choose to take individual courses without registering for the full program if you wish to focus on specific topics only or if you do not have time to complete all three levels within five years.

To get started with the SSCP certification program you must first register through ISM's website and pay the registration fee ($150 USD). After completing each course or exam you will receive a certificate from ISM that shows your progress towards obtaining your final certificate upon completion of all three levels within five years from your initial registration date.

7. Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD)

Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (CPSD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to supplier diversity. The program is administered by the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).

The CPSD certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in supplier diversity, and demonstrates that an individual has a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of supplier diversity. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as best practices in supplier diversity, legal issues related to supplier diversity, and strategies for implementing successful supplier diversity programs.

The CPSD certification process typically takes four to six weeks from start to finish. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as proof of education and professional experience. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam and pay the associated fee. The fee for the CPSD exam is $395 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CPSD certificate within two weeks.

8. Certified International Procurement Professional (CIPP)

Certified International Procurement Professional (CIPP) is a certification program offered by the International Association for Contract & Commercial Management (IACCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in international procurement and contract management.

The CIPP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of the principles, processes, and best practices related to international procurement. To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in international procurement or contract management.

The CIPP certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and an in-person interview. The online assessment includes multiple-choice questions covering topics such as risk management, supply chain management, negotiation strategies, and legal considerations. The in-person interview tests the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios.

The cost of the CIPP certification varies depending on where you are located. In some countries, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending the in-person interview. In general, however, it typically costs around $1,500 USD for the entire process.

It usually takes several months to complete all the requirements for obtaining the CIPP certification. After completing the online assessment and in-person interview successfully, applicants will receive their certificate within four weeks.

9. Advanced Sourcing Strategies Certification Program (ASSCP)

The Advanced Sourcing Strategies Certification Program (ASSCP) is an online certification program designed to help sourcing professionals develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of strategic sourcing, supplier relationship management, and procurement. The program consists of a series of modules that cover topics such as cost analysis, negotiation techniques, contract management, and supply chain optimization. The program is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

The program takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. It includes a comprehensive exam that covers all the topics presented in the modules. To get certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or non-member. For ISM members, it costs $395; for non-members, it costs $495.

In addition to the certification cost, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam including a proctoring fee and/or travel expenses if you take it at an offsite location.

Once you have completed all of the requirements and passed the exam, you will receive your official certificate from ISM along with access to exclusive resources such as webinars and industry events.

10. Strategic Negotiation and Contracting Certification Program (SNCCP)

The Strategic Negotiation and Contracting Certification Program (SNCCP) is an advanced training program designed to help professionals develop the skills necessary for successful negotiations and contracting. The program is offered by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA), a professional organization dedicated to providing education, certification, and resources for contract management professionals.

The SNCCP consists of four main components: Negotiation Strategies & Tactics, Contract Law & Regulations, Contract Management & Administration, and Business Communication & Leadership. Each component includes lectures, case studies, interactive exercises, and assessments. Upon completion of the program, participants will receive a certificate from NCMA certifying their successful completion of the coursework.

The SNCCP can be completed in as little as six months or up to one year depending on individual progress. To get started with the program, applicants must first become a member of NCMA and then register for the SNCCP online or via mail. Once registered, applicants will receive access to all course materials including lecture slides and assessments.

The cost of the SNCCP varies depending on whether an applicant is an NCMA member or non-member. For members, the cost is $1,395; for non-members it is $1,595. This fee includes all course materials as well as access to NCMA’s online resources such as webinars and forums.

11. Global Trade Compliance Certification Program (GTCCP).

The Global Trade Compliance Certification Program (GTCCP) is an international certification program that helps organizations understand and comply with the complex global trade regulations. It certifies that companies have a well-defined process in place to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations related to the import and export of goods.

The GTCCP is designed to help organizations meet their obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), as well as other relevant international agreements. The program also provides guidance on how to develop effective trade compliance systems, including risk management strategies, customs procedures, record keeping requirements, and dispute resolution mechanisms.

The GTCCP requires a minimum of 30 hours of training for successful completion. The training includes lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises that cover topics such as export controls, customs duties and taxes, anti-dumping measures, sanctions regimes, product classification systems, labeling requirements, document preparation, supply chain security programs, and dispute resolution processes.

To obtain the certification, applicants must complete an online application form and submit a fee of $250 USD. Upon approval of the application by the GTCCP Board of Directors, applicants will receive access to the online course materials. Once they successfully complete all course requirements within 90 days from registration date they will be awarded a certificate of completion from the GTCCP Board of Directors.

The cost for obtaining the Global Trade Compliance Certification Program is $250 USD per applicant.

Do You Really Need a Sourcing Specialist Certificate?

When it comes to sourcing specialists, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether or not a certification is necessary. The need for certification depends on many factors, including the type of job you are seeking and the industry in which you plan to work.

For those who are new to the field of sourcing, a certificate may be beneficial in order to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. If you are an experienced sourcing specialist, however, a certificate may not be as important. Employers in this field typically look for experience and expertise more than credentials when making hiring decisions.

In addition, some employers require that their potential employees have certain certifications before they can even apply for the job. This could include specific certifications related to supply chain management or procurement best practices. It’s important to research any potential employer’s requirements before applying for a position.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a sourcing specialist certificate will depend on your individual situation and goals. A certificate may provide additional credibility with potential employers but it is not always necessary for success in the field.

Related: Sourcing Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Sourcing Specialist Certifications

Q1: What is a Sourcing Specialist Certification?

A1: A Sourcing Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of sourcing. This certification is awarded by recognized organizations, such as the American Purchasing Society, to demonstrate competency in the skills and processes necessary to effectively source materials and services.

Q2: What are the benefits of having a Sourcing Specialist Certification?

A2: Having a Sourcing Specialist Certification can provide individuals with an edge over other applicants when pursuing job opportunities. Additionally, certified professionals may be eligible for higher wages due to their increased knowledge and expertise. Furthermore, having this certification can make individuals more attractive to employers who are looking for experienced professionals in their industry.

Q3: How do I obtain a Sourcing Specialist Certification?

A3: To obtain a Sourcing Specialist Certification, you must first complete an accredited program or course in sourcing. After completing the coursework, you must then pass an exam administered by the organization offering the certification. Additionally, some certifications require renewal after a certain period of time; therefore it is important to stay up-to-date with any changes or requirements associated with your particular certification.

Q4: Is there anything else I need to do once I become certified?

A4: Yes! Once you become certified as a Sourcing Specialist, it is important to maintain your credentials by staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. You should also participate in continuing education opportunities that may be available through your organization or other industry groups as well as networking events so that you can stay connected with other professionals in your field.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified?

A5: Yes, most certifications have some sort of prerequisite requirement such as prior educational experience or work experience within the field. It is important to check with the organization offering the certification for any specific requirements that may apply before beginning your studies or applying for the exam.