Top 11 Supply Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a supply manager in the job market because they provide evidence of professional competence, demonstrate commitment to the profession, and set a supply manager apart from other applicants. Having certifications can give employers confidence that an applicant is qualified to manage their supply chain operations. Certifications also show potential employers that a supply manager has the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful in the role. Lastly, certifications provide additional credibility when applying for jobs and can help open doors to new opportunities within the industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Supply Managers and explains how they can help advance a Supply Manager's career.

What are Supply Manager Certifications?

Supply manager certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the supply management field. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of professional knowledge and experience in the discipline. The certification is awarded by organizations such as the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and the International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Association (IPSCMA).

The certification process consists of passing an exam, completing a required number of continuing education credits, and demonstrating a level of professional experience. By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to the profession and are better able to provide quality service to their clients.

Being certified can help individuals advance their career by providing recognition from employers that they have achieved a higher level of proficiency than those without certification. It also gives them access to exclusive networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry and helps them stay up-to-date on current trends in supply management. Additionally, it can open doors to greater pay or promotions due to the increased credibility that comes with being certified.

Pro Tip: When considering a supply manager certification, look for programs that focus on both the technical and managerial aspects of supply chain management. This will ensure that you are well prepared to take on the challenges of running an effective supply chain.

Related: What does a Supply Manager do?

Top 11 Supply Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in supply management. The CPSM program consists of three exams, each focusing on different aspects of supply management.

The first exam covers the fundamentals of supply management, including topics such as procurement, inventory management, and logistics. The second exam focuses on strategic sourcing and contract negotiation skills. The third exam covers advanced topics such as supplier relationship management and global sourcing.

In order to become certified, an individual must pass all three exams within five years. Each exam costs $295 USD and can be taken at any ISM-approved testing center around the world. After passing all three exams, applicants must submit an application to ISM for final review and approval before they are awarded their CPSM designation.

The total cost of the CPSM program varies depending on how quickly an individual completes the program; however, it typically takes between six months and two years to complete all three exams and obtain certification.

2. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program administered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). The CSCP certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chain activities. It is a globally recognized certification that recognizes individuals who demonstrate mastery of the end-to-end supply chain management process.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online exam, an in-person workshop, and a case study project. The online exam covers topics such as supply chain strategy, demand planning, inventory management, logistics, customer service, and more. The in-person workshop provides additional instruction on the topics covered in the exam and helps prepare candidates for the case study project. The case study project requires candidates to apply their knowledge of supply chain management principles to a real-world business problem.

The CSCP program typically takes 6-12 months to complete depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exam. To get certified, you must pass all three components of the program: the online exam, in-person workshop, and case study project.

The cost of becoming CSCP certified varies depending on your geographic location and whether or not you are already an ASCM member. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500-$2,500 USD for nonmembers and $1,000-$1,500 USD for members.

3. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of purchasing professionals. It is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a global non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of supply chain management. The CPM certification is recognized as the premier credential for purchasing managers, buyers, and other related professionals in the field of procurement.

The CPM program consists of three parts: a comprehensive exam, an application process, and continuing education requirements. To become certified, applicants must pass a two-part exam that covers topics such as supply chain management principles, contract law, and negotiation strategies. The exam also includes questions on ethical considerations in purchasing decisions.

The application process requires candidates to provide evidence of at least five years of relevant work experience in purchasing or supply chain management. After passing the exam and submitting their application materials, candidates must complete 24 hours of continuing education every three years to maintain their CPM certification status.

The cost of becoming a Certified Purchasing Manager varies depending on whether you are already an ISM member or not. For non-members, it costs $395 for the exam fee plus an additional $75 for the application fee. For ISM members, it costs $295 for the exam fee plus an additional $50 for the application fee. It usually takes about six weeks from when you submit your application until you receive your results from ISM.

4. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). CPIM is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in production and inventory management. It is a comprehensive certification program that covers topics such as demand management, operations planning, inventory control, master scheduling, procurement and supplier planning, quality control, and continuous improvement.

To become CPIM certified, individuals must complete five required 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 courses can be completed online or in-person at an APICS training center.

The cost to take the courses ranges from $2,000 to $3,000 depending on the course format. After completion of the courses, there is an exam fee of $695 for members or $895 for non-members. The exam consists of two parts with a total of 200 questions. Candidates have three hours to complete each part.

Once both parts are passed successfully, candidates are awarded the CPIM designation which they can use to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in production and inventory management.

5. Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage the global supply chain. The CLTD program provides individuals with an opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in logistics, transportation, and distribution.

The CLTD program consists of nine knowledge domains that cover topics such as supply chain strategy, transportation operations, warehousing and inventory management, international logistics, customer service and more. To earn the CLTD credential, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that tests their understanding of these nine domains.

The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online. It takes about two hours to complete the exam. The cost of the exam is $495 for AST&L members and $595 for non-members.

Once an individual has passed the exam they will receive their CLTD certification from AST&L. This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed. Renewal requires that individuals complete continuing education activities or retake the exam every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

6. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification (APICS CPIM)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have mastered the essential terminology, concepts, and strategies related to production and inventory management. CPIM certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively manage production and inventory operations.

It typically takes between six months to two years to complete the CPIM program depending on the individual's study habits and schedule. To get certified, applicants must first become a member of APICS, which requires a small fee. After becoming a member, applicants must pass five exams: Basics of Supply Chain Management, Master Planning of Resources, Detailed Scheduling & Planning, Execution & Control of Operations, Strategic Management of Resources.

Each exam costs $195 for members or $295 for non-members. Additionally, there are several study materials available from APICS that can help prepare for the exams such as books, online courses, practice tests and more. Once all five exams are passed successfully then the applicant will receive their CPIM certification from APICS.

7. Institute for Supply Management Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (ISM-CPSD)

The Institute for Supply Management Certified Professional in Supplier Diversity (ISM-CPSD) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate professional excellence in supplier diversity management. It is the only certification of its kind that focuses solely on supplier diversity and provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this field.

The ISM-CPSD program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as supplier diversity strategy, compliance, metrics, and best practices. The exam tests the candidate’s knowledge of these topics.

To get the ISM-CPSD certification, candidates must complete the online course and pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The online course typically takes about 8 hours to complete, depending on how quickly you work through it.

The cost for taking the ISM-CPSD certification program is $495 USD for members of ISM or $595 USD for non-members. This includes access to all materials needed for the program as well as one attempt at passing the exam.

8. National Institute of Governmental Purchasing Certification (NIGP-CPP)

The National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) Certified Professional Public Buyer (CPP) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of public procurement professionals. It is designed to provide a standard of excellence for the public procurement profession and to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to professional development.

The NIGP-CPP certification process consists of three parts:

1. Passing a comprehensive exam which covers topics such as contract law, purchasing principles, public sector regulations, and more;

2. Completing an approved NIGP-CPP training course; and

3. Submitting a minimum of five years of relevant work experience in public procurement or related fields.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the certification process depending on the individual's background and experience level. In order to get certified, individuals must submit an application packet that includes their official transcripts, proof of completion of the required training course, and documentation verifying their work experience in public procurement or related fields.

The cost for obtaining the NIGP-CPP certification varies depending on the individual's state or country. Generally speaking, it costs around $600-$800 USD for US citizens and $400-$600 USD for international applicants.

9. Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply Certificate in Procurement & Supply Operations

The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) Certificate in Procurement & Supply Operations is an internationally recognised qualification that provides a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of procurement and supply chain management. It is designed for those who are new to the profession, or who have some experience but wish to gain a formal qualification.

The course typically takes around six months to complete, depending on the student’s level of commitment and dedication. It covers topics such as strategic sourcing, negotiation and contract management, supplier relationship management, risk management, and ethical procurement.

In order to get the CIPS Certificate in Procurement & Supply Operations, you must first register with CIPS as a student member. You will then need to complete four modules: Introduction to Procurement & Supply; Sourcing; Negotiation & Contract Management; and Risk Management & Ethics in Procurement & Supply. The modules can be studied online or via distance learning.

The cost of the course varies depending on your chosen study method and whether you are studying full-time or part-time. For example, studying online costs £1,500 while distance learning costs £2,400. There may also be additional costs associated with taking exams and other assessments throughout the course.

10. International Quality Federation Certified Quality Manager/Certified Quality Engineer

The International Quality Federation Certified Quality Manager/Certified Quality Engineer (CQM/CQE) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality management and engineering. This certification is offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), an international organization dedicated to promoting quality in all aspects of life. The CQM/CQE certification is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in the field of quality management and engineering.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and adhere to the ASQ Code of Ethics. The exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and a written essay section. The multiple-choice section covers topics such as quality principles, process improvement techniques, problem solving methods, statistical analysis, project management, and leadership skills. The written essay portion requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of quality concepts by responding to questions about various aspects of the profession.

It typically takes between three months to one year to complete the CQM/CQE certification process depending on how quickly you can meet all the requirements. To get started, you will need to register with ASQ and pay a fee which varies depending on your membership status with ASQ. After registering, you will be able to access study materials such as practice exams and review courses that can help you prepare for the exam. Once you are ready to take the exam, you will need to register for an available testing date at one of ASQ’s approved testing centers around the world.

The cost of becoming certified depends on several factors including your membership status with ASQ and whether or not you choose to use any additional study materials or review courses offered by third-party providers. Generally speaking, it costs anywhere from $400-$1,000 USD for non-members or $200-$500 USD for members to become certified through this program.

11. American Purchasing Society Certified Public Buyer

The American Purchasing Society Certified Public Buyer (CPSP) is a professional certification for purchasing professionals. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of public procurement and demonstrate their commitment to ethical standards and professional development.

It takes approximately four to six months to complete the CPSP certification process, depending on how quickly you can complete the required courses and exams. The program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as public procurement law, contract management, supplier management, and more. Once you have completed the course, you must pass a comprehensive exam administered by the American Purchasing Society in order to receive your certification.

To get your CPSP certification, you must first become a member of the American Purchasing Society. Membership is free and requires a few simple steps including completing an application form and providing proof of your educational background or experience in purchasing or related fields. After becoming a member, you will be able to register for the CPSP program and access all materials necessary for completion.

The cost for obtaining your CPSP certification varies depending on whether you are taking the online course or attending live classes at one of the society's training centers across the United States. The cost for taking the online course ranges from $395-$795 USD depending on which package you choose; live classes range from $1,195-$1,495 USD depending on location.

Do You Really Need a Supply Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a supply manager certificate to be a successful supply manager. However, depending on the organization, having a certificate in supply management can provide you with an advantage over other applicants and may increase your chances of getting hired.

Having a formal education or certification in supply management can show potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the role. It also demonstrates that you are serious about the profession and have taken the time and effort to invest in yourself by obtaining a specialized degree or certifying your expertise.

Additionally, some organizations may require their supply managers to hold certain credentials before they will consider them for hiring. For example, if you are applying for a position at an aerospace company, they may require that all candidates possess an American Society of Quality's Certified Supply Manager (ASQ CQM) or similar credential before they will consider them for employment.

Finally, having a formal certification in supply management may also help you stand out among other job seekers as it shows employers that you have taken initiative and are serious about your career aspirations. Employers often look for candidates who demonstrate commitment and dedication to their field of work through additional educational pursuits such as certificates or degrees.

In conclusion, while it is not required to obtain a certificate in order to become a successful supply manager, doing so could potentially give you an edge when competing for jobs with other qualified applicants and might even be necessary depending on the organization’s requirements.

Related: Supply Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Supply Manager Certifications

1. What are the benefits of a Supply Manager Certification?

Answer: A Supply Manager Certification demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in the field of supply chain management, which can help you advance your career and increase your earning potential. It also allows you to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

2. How long does it take to get a Supply Manager Certification?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the specific certification program chosen. Generally, most programs require at least several months of preparation and study before taking an exam.

3. How much does a Supply Manager Certification cost?

Answer: The cost of a Supply Manager Certification varies depending on the specific program chosen. Most programs range from $500-$3000 USD, but some may be more or less expensive depending on the organization offering the certification.

4. Are there any prerequisites for getting a Supply Manager Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs have prerequisites that must be met before taking an exam. These prerequisites typically include having experience in supply chain management and related areas, as well as completing certain coursework or training modules in order to qualify for certification.

5. Is a Supply Manager Certification internationally recognized?

Answer: Yes, many certifications offered by professional organizations are recognized internationally by employers looking for candidates with specialized skillsets in supply chain management and related fields.