Top 11 Vendor Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a vendor manager in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge and experience to potential employers. Certifications show employers that the individual has met certain standards and is qualified to do the job. They also indicate that the individual has taken the initiative to gain additional skills and training needed to be successful in their role as a vendor manager. In addition, certifications can help vendors better understand industry trends, regulations, and best practices which can give them an edge over competitors when it comes to bidding on contracts or negotiating deals. Ultimately, certifications provide evidence that a vendor manager is knowledgeable and capable of doing their job well.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Vendor Managers and explains how they can enhance a vendor manager's career.

What are Vendor Manager Certifications?

Vendor Manager Certification is a certification program designed to help individuals understand the fundamentals of managing vendors and supplier relationships. It provides a comprehensive framework to ensure that all aspects of vendor management are addressed, from selecting the right vendors to developing contracts, monitoring performance and maintaining long-term relationships. This certification can be beneficial for professionals working in procurement, supply chain, or operations who are responsible for vendor management activities.

The Vendor Manager Certification program covers key topics such as understanding the fundamentals of vendor management, creating effective contracts with vendors, monitoring and measuring performance, building successful partnerships and relationships with suppliers, and problem solving. By completing this certification program, individuals will gain a better understanding of how to manage their vendors effectively and efficiently. This knowledge can lead to improved productivity and cost savings for companies as well as better vendor relationships which can result in more competitive pricing on goods or services. Additionally, having this certification may make an individual more attractive to employers looking for experienced professionals who understand how to manage vendors effectively.

Pro Tip: Consider seeking certifications from recognized organizations to demonstrate your expertise in vendor management. These certifications will help you stand out to employers and demonstrate a commitment to the profession. Additionally, many professional associations offer vendor manager-specific training and certification programs which can provide valuable insight into the latest trends and best practices in the field.

Related: What does a Vendor Manager do?

Top 11 Vendor Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Vendor Manager (CVM)

Certified Vendor Manager (CVM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage vendor relationships effectively. The CVM designation is offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM), a division of the Institute for Supply Management (ISM).

The CVM program is a self-paced, online course that takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete. It consists of six modules covering topics such as contract management, vendor selection, negotiation, and performance measurement. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive their CVM certification.

To get started with the CVM program, you must first register with ICPM and pay the registration fee. The cost of the CVM program varies depending on your membership status with ISM; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Once registered, you can begin working through the course material at your own pace.

Once you have completed all six modules and passed an online assessment exam, you will be awarded your Certified Vendor Manager certification from ICPM. This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed or recertified.

2. Certified Professional Vendor Manager (CPVM)

Certified Professional Vendor Manager (CPVM) is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage vendors, suppliers, and contractors. The CPVM program was created by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) in order to provide professionals with the credentials needed to work in vendor management.

The CPVM certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in contract management or related fields. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as contract law, negotiation strategies, and vendor risk management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to obtain the CPVM certification, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and proof of experience. Once approved, applicants must pay a fee of $295 for NCMA members or $395 for non-members. After completing the exam, applicants will receive their CPVM certificate within two weeks.

The CPVM certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through continuing education credits or re-examination.

3. Certified Supply Chain Vendor Manager (CSCVM)

Certified Supply Chain Vendor Manager (CSCVM) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing vendor relationships, supply chain operations, and supplier performance.

The CSCVM certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in supply chain management or related fields. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic sourcing, contract negotiation, and performance measurement. The exam is administered by ISM and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions.

The cost to take the CSCVM exam is $400 for non-members and $350 for members of ISM. The exam can be taken online or in person at one of ISM’s testing centers. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

In order to maintain their certification, holders must complete 30 continuing education credits every three years. These credits can be earned through attending conferences, webinars, seminars, or other educational activities approved by ISM.

4. Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO)

Certified Public Procurement Officer (CPPO) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in public procurement. It is administered by the Universal Public Procurement Certification Council (UPPCC). The certification is designed to help public procurement professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the areas of contracting, purchasing, and supplier management.

The CPPO certification program consists of three parts: an online exam, a case study, and an oral interview. The exam covers topics such as contract law, procurement regulations, and best practices. The case study requires applicants to analyze a real-world scenario and develop a solution. Finally, the oral interview evaluates applicants’ ability to apply their knowledge in practical situations.

The entire process typically takes about four months from start to finish. Applicants must first complete the online exam before they can move on to the case study and oral interview portions of the program.

The cost for obtaining CPPO certification varies depending on whether or not you are already certified in another area of public procurement. If you are not already certified, then you will need to pay an application fee of $150 plus any applicable taxes or fees. The total cost for obtaining CPPO certification can range from $200-$400 depending on your location and other factors.

5. Certified Strategic Sourcing Professional (CSSP)

Certified Strategic Sourcing Professional (CSSP) is a professional certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage strategic sourcing initiatives. The program focuses on developing the ability to identify, analyze, and evaluate sourcing opportunities, develop strategies to optimize procurement processes, and implement best practices in strategic sourcing.

The CSSP certification requires applicants to complete a series of courses and pass an exam administered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). To be eligible for the CSSP certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in supply chain management or related fields.

The CSSP program consists of five courses: Introduction to Strategic Sourcing; Strategic Sourcing Processes; Supplier Relationship Management; Negotiations Skills; and Contract Management. Each course is offered online or in-person and takes approximately two weeks to complete.

The cost of the CSSP certification varies depending on which courses are taken. The total cost can range from $1,500 - $2,500 USD depending on the number of courses taken and whether they are taken online or in-person.

Once all five courses have been completed and the exam has been passed, applicants will receive their official CSSP certificate from ISM.

6. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM)

Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) is a professional certification for purchasing managers and professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field. The CPM designation is offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a global leader in supply chain management education, research, standards, and certification.

The CPM certification requires at least five years of full-time work experience in the purchasing profession, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Candidates must also pass an exam administered by ISM to demonstrate their knowledge of purchasing principles, practices, and procedures.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete the requirements for the CPM certification. During this time, candidates must complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education activities related to purchasing management topics such as cost analysis, contract law, inventory control systems, supplier relationships, and international sourcing. Candidates must also submit three professional references from individuals familiar with their work experience in the purchasing profession.

The cost of obtaining the CPM certification varies depending on whether you are an ISM member or not. For non-members it costs $495 USD for the application fee plus $395 USD for each exam module taken ($795 USD total). For members it costs $295 USD for the application fee plus $195 USD for each exam module taken ($495 USD total).

7. Certified Supplier Relationship Management Professional (CSRMP)

Certified Supplier Relationship Management Professional (CSRMP) is a certification program developed by the International Association for Contract and Commercial Management (IACCM). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to effectively manage supplier relationships.

The CSRMP certification program consists of three courses: Introduction to Supplier Relationship Management, Advanced Supplier Relationship Management, and Professional Practices in Supplier Relationship Management. The courses are offered online or in-person. The total cost of the program is $2,495 USD which includes all course materials, exam fees and an IACCM membership fee.

The entire program can be completed in as little as six months, but it may take longer depending on individual study habits and availability. In order to obtain the CSRMP certification, individuals must pass all three courses and receive a passing score on the final exam.

To get started with the CSRMP certification program, applicants must first register online at IACCM’s website. Once registered, applicants will be able to access course materials and begin studying for their exams. After completing all three courses and passing the final exam, applicants will receive their official CSRMP certification from IACCM.

8. Certified Contract Management Professional (CCMP)

Certified Contract Management Professional (CCMP) is a certification program offered by the National Contract Management Association (NCMA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of contract management. The CCMP credential is recognized and respected worldwide as a mark of professional achievement.

The CCMP certification process involves completing an online application, passing an exam, and meeting certain educational and experience requirements. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as contract law, negotiation, risk management, and performance management. To be eligible for the CCMP credential, applicants must have at least three years of full-time contract management experience or five years of part-time contract management experience within the past seven years. Applicants must also hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university or have completed at least 48 semester hours or 72 quarter hours of coursework from an accredited college or university with at least 12 semester hours or 18 quarter hours in business-related courses.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CCMP certification process. The cost of the certification process varies depending on whether you are a member of NCMA or not. For non-members, the cost is $595; for members it is $495.

9. Project Management Institute – Vendor Management Professional (PMI-VMP)

The Project Management Institute – Vendor Management Professional (PMI-VMP) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of best practices in vendor management. The PMI-VMP certification provides recognition for those who have the skills and knowledge to manage vendors effectively.

To get the PMI-VMP certification, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of professional experience in vendor management or related fields. You must also pass an exam administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

You can register for the PMI-VMP exam online through the PMI website. The cost for the exam is $405 for members of PMI and $555 for non-members. After registering, you will receive an authorization letter from PMI that allows you to schedule your exam at a testing center near you.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official PMI-VMP certificate in 8–10 weeks. You must also maintain your certification by completing 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to keep it current.

10. International Association of Contract & Commercial Managers – Vendor Manager Certification Program (IACCM-VMCP)

The International Association of Contract & Commercial Managers (IACCM) Vendor Manager Certification Program (VMCP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage vendors and suppliers. The program includes four modules that cover topics such as vendor selection, contract negotiation, supplier relationship management, and vendor performance management.

The IACCM-VMCP program takes approximately 40 hours to complete. It consists of self-paced learning activities such as online videos, webinars, tutorials, and assessments. Participants must also complete a final exam in order to receive their certification.

To get certified through the IACCM-VMCP program, individuals must first register for the program on the IACCM website. After registering, participants will be given access to the course materials and can begin working through the modules at their own pace. Once all of the course materials have been completed and the final exam has been passed, participants will be awarded their VMCP certification.

The cost for the IACCM-VMCP certification program is $1,495 USD for members of IACCM or $1,995 USD for non-members.

11. American Purchasing Society – Certified Procurement and Supply Chain Manager (APSC-CPSCM).

The American Purchasing Society Certified Procurement and Supply Chain Manager (APSC-CPSCM) is a professional certification designed to recognize those who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of procurement, supply chain management, and related disciplines. The APSC-CPSCM is a comprehensive certification program that covers the entire spectrum of procurement and supply chain management. It requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge in the areas of procurement strategy, supplier relationships, purchasing processes, inventory management, logistics and transportation, quality assurance/control, risk management, and sustainability.

In order to obtain the APSC-CPSCM certification, applicants must pass an online exam administered by the American Purchasing Society. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions that cover all aspects of procurement and supply chain management. Applicants must also possess a minimum of two years' experience in the field or have completed an approved educational program in procurement or supply chain management.

The cost for the APSC-CPSCM certification is $495 USD for members of the American Purchasing Society ($595 USD for non-members). This fee includes access to study materials as well as a voucher for taking the online exam. It typically takes between four to six weeks from when you register until you receive your results from the exam.

Do You Really Need a Vendor Manager Certificate?

A vendor manager certificate is not a requirement to become a vendor manager, however it could be beneficial in certain circumstances. Whether or not you need one really depends on your individual situation and the requirements of the company you are applying to.

If you have experience in managing vendors or have completed a relevant degree, then a vendor manager certificate may not be necessary. However, if you lack experience in this area and are looking to demonstrate your qualifications to potential employers, then obtaining a certificate can be beneficial. It shows that you have taken the time to learn about the fundamentals of vendor management and can demonstrate your knowledge of the field.

Furthermore, some companies may require certification for certain positions; having a certificate can help you stand out among other applicants and make it easier for recruiters to identify qualified candidates.

The decision of whether or not to get a vendor manager certificate ultimately comes down to your own situation and goals. If you believe that it will help further your career and give you an edge over other applicants, then obtaining one may be worth considering.

Related: Vendor Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Vendor Manager Certifications

1. What is Vendor Manager Certification?

Answer: Vendor Manager Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in managing vendors, contracts, and relationships with external suppliers. It is designed to equip professionals with the tools needed to effectively manage vendor relationships, negotiate better deals, and ensure compliance with regulations.

2. How do I become certified as a Vendor Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Vendor Manager, you must pass an exam administered by a recognized certification body such as the Association of Professional Vendors (APV). The exam covers topics such as contract management, supplier selection and evaluation, risk management, and more.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a Vendor Manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on several factors including your prior experience in vendor management and the amount of time you are able to dedicate towards studying for the exam. Generally speaking, most people can complete their certification within 6-9 months if they study regularly.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Vendor Manager?

Answer: There are many benefits associated with becoming a Certified Vendor Manager including increased job opportunities and higher salaries due to having specialized knowledge in vendor management; improved negotiation skills; access to exclusive resources such as industry research; and greater confidence when dealing with suppliers or negotiating contracts.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifying bodies require Certified Vendor Managers to complete certain amounts of continuing education credits each year in order to maintain their certification status. Depending on the certifying body these credits may be obtained through attending seminars or webinars related to vendor management or completing online courses related to the field.