Top 10 Venue Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a venue manager in the job market because they can demonstrate to potential employers that they have the necessary skills and knowledge required to succeed in their role. Certifications also show employers that a candidate is committed to their profession and willing to invest time and effort into becoming an expert in their field. Furthermore, certifications can give venue managers an edge over other candidates who lack formal qualifications. Finally, certified venue managers may be able to access higher salaries or more desirable positions than those without certification.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Venue Managers and explains how they can contribute to a venue manager's career by providing professional development opportunities and enhancing their knowledge base.

What are Venue Manager Certifications?

Venue manager certification is a professional credential that recognizes the specialized knowledge and skills required to manage a venue. It is designed to ensure that those responsible for managing venues are properly trained and qualified to do so. This certification demonstrates an individual's expertise in areas such as event planning, financial management, customer service, building maintenance, and safety protocols.

Venue manager certification can help ensure that those responsible for managing venues have the necessary knowledge and skills to do their job effectively. By having this certification, employers can be confident that their staff has the qualifications necessary to provide a safe and successful venue experience for their customers. Additionally, by having this credential, individuals can demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to excellence in their field of work. Venue managers who are certified may also find themselves more attractive candidates for promotions or higher-level positions within their organization or industry. Finally, earning a venue manager certification can increase an individual's credibility among peers and potential employers while providing them with access to valuable resources and networking opportunities.

Pro tip: Make sure to do your research before signing up for a venue manager certification program. Look into the program's curriculum, accreditation, and instructor experience to ensure you are getting a quality education. Additionally, look for any additional certifications or continuing education programs that may be offered by the institution. This can help you stay ahead of industry trends and give you an edge in your career.

Related: What does a Venue Manager do?

Top 10 Venue Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Venue Manager (CVM)

Certified Venue Manager (CVM) is a professional certification program for those working in the venue management industry. The program was developed by the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM) and is designed to recognize professionals with expertise in all aspects of venue management.

The CVM program consists of three levels of certification: Certified Venue Professional (CVP), Certified Venue Executive (CVE), and Certified Venue Master (CVM). Each level requires a different amount of training and experience, as well as passing an exam.

It usually takes two to three years to complete the CVM program. To become certified, applicants must first take a series of online courses covering topics such as event planning, customer service, facility operations, safety and security, marketing, finance, and human resources. After completing the online courses, applicants must pass an exam administered by IAVM.

The cost of the CVM program varies depending on which level you are pursuing. The CVP level costs $495 USD; the CVE level costs $795 USD; and the CVM level costs $995 USD. All fees include access to course materials and exams.

2. Certified Hospitality Venue Manager (CHVM)

Certified Hospitality Venue Manager (CHVM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE). It is designed to recognize hospitality professionals who demonstrate excellence in their field. The CHVM certification is awarded to those who have demonstrated mastery of the principles and practices of hospitality venue management.

To qualify for the CHVM certification, applicants must be currently employed in a hospitality venue management role and have at least three years of experience in that role. They must also complete an online application, pass a written exam, and attend a two-day workshop.

The cost of the CHVM certification program varies depending on the applicant’s geographic location and other factors. Generally, it costs between $600 and $1,200 to become certified.

The entire process typically takes about six months from start to finish. This includes time spent completing the application, studying for the exam, attending the workshop, and waiting for results.

3. Certified Event Management Professional (CEMP)

Certified Event Management Professional (CEMP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA). This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of event management knowledge and skills.

The CEMP program requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as event planning, budgeting, marketing, risk management, and legal considerations. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical application portion. The written portion consists of multiple choice questions that test knowledge in the areas of event planning, budgeting, marketing, risk management, and legal considerations. The practical application portion requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in an actual event setting.

It typically takes about six months for individuals to complete the CEMP program. During this time period, applicants must complete the required coursework and take the exam. They must also submit documentation demonstrating their experience in event management.

To get certified as a CEMP professional, individuals must first become members of ILEA and pay the associated membership fee. Then they can register for the CEMP program by submitting an application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education or experience in event management. Once accepted into the program, applicants must pay an additional fee for access to study materials and exams.

The cost of becoming certified as a CEMP professional varies depending on whether or not you are already an ILEA member. For non-members, it costs $495 USD plus any applicable taxes; for existing ILEA members it costs $395 USD plus any applicable taxes; and for students it costs $295 USD plus any applicable taxes.

4. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) is a professional designation awarded by the Convention Industry Council (CIC) to individuals who have met stringent criteria in the meetings, conventions, and exhibitions industry. The CMP program was created to recognize meeting professionals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to plan and execute successful meetings and events.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to become a Certified Meeting Professional. To obtain the CMP designation, applicants must meet certain requirements including: completing an application, having at least three years of full-time experience in the meetings industry, passing an exam, and agreeing to adhere to a code of ethics.

The cost for the CMP program varies depending on how many courses you take or if you are a member of one of the sponsoring organizations. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$600 for non-members and $300-$500 for members.

5. Certified Banquet Manager (CBM)

Certified Banquet Manager (CBM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Catering Executives (NACE). The CBM program is designed to provide catering professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully manage banquet operations. It focuses on topics such as food and beverage management, event planning, customer service, budgeting, marketing, and more.

The CBM program consists of two parts: a self-study course and an exam. The self-study course covers all of the topics listed above and can be completed in about 6 months. After completing the self-study course, candidates must pass an exam in order to receive their CBM certification. The exam is administered by NACE and consists of multiple choice questions covering all aspects of banquet management.

In order to become certified as a Certified Banquet Manager, candidates must have at least 3 years of experience in the catering industry or have completed a degree in hospitality or related field. Candidates must also submit proof of their experience or education before taking the exam.

The cost for the CBM program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$600 for both the self-study course and the exam fee combined.

6. Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE)

Certified Food and Beverage Executive (CFBE) is a professional certification program offered by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF). The CFBE program is designed to provide restaurant and foodservice industry professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to lead their organizations in today’s competitive environment.

The CFBE program consists of three courses: Food & Beverage Management, Advanced Food & Beverage Management, and Leadership & Human Resources Development. Each course takes approximately 10 weeks to complete. The courses can be taken online or in a classroom setting.

To become certified as a CFBE, individuals must pass all three courses with a passing grade of 70% or higher. Individuals must also have at least two years of experience in the foodservice industry and demonstrate their commitment to continuing education through ongoing professional development activities.

The cost for the entire CFBE program varies depending on where you take the courses but typically ranges from $1,500-$3,000.

7. Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA)

Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is a professional certification program for hospitality industry professionals. It is offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). The CHA program is designed to help hospitality professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a hotel or lodging property.

The CHA program consists of three courses: Hospitality Management, Hotel Operations, and Financial Management. Each course takes approximately 20 hours to complete and includes an online exam at the end. After completing all three courses, individuals must pass a final exam in order to receive their CHA certification.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register for the CHA program through AHLEI’s website. The cost of the program is $1,295 USD and includes access to all three courses and materials, as well as one year of membership with AHLEI. Once registered, individuals can begin taking the courses at their own pace. It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all three courses and pass the final exam in order to become certified.

8. Certified Sports and Entertainment Venue Manager (CSEMV)

Certified Sports and Entertainment Venue Manager (CSEMV) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). It is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of competency in managing sports and entertainment venues. The certification program involves completing a series of courses and exams, as well as meeting certain requirements for experience and education.

The CSEMV program consists of three courses: Venue Management & Operations, Business & Financial Management, and Human Resources. Each course requires approximately 30 hours to complete, with an additional 10-hour exam at the end. Candidates must also have at least two years of industry experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience to qualify for the certification.

The cost for the CSEMV program varies depending on the number of courses taken, but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD. The cost includes all course materials, access to online learning resources, and examination fees.

Upon successful completion of all three courses and exams, candidates will receive their Certified Sports & Entertainment Venue Manager (CSEMV) credential from IAVM. This credential is valid for five years from the date it was awarded and can be renewed through continuing education credits or by taking additional courses or examinations.

9. Certified Facility Manager (CFM)

Certified Facility Manager (CFM) is a professional credential offered by the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). The CFM designation is the highest level of achievement available to facility managers and is recognized as the global standard for excellence in the field.

The CFM program is designed to assess and validate an individual's knowledge, experience, and proficiency in managing facilities. It requires a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of facility management, including operations and maintenance, finance and business, environmental stewardship, leadership and strategy, project management, communications and technology.

To become a Certified Facility Manager (CFM), you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least five years of experience in facility management or related fields; earning an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university; completing at least 80 hours of IFMA-approved continuing education; passing the CFM exam; and agreeing to abide by IFMA's Code of Ethics.

The CFM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover all aspects of facility management. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete. Candidates have up to one year after passing the exam to submit their application materials for certification.

The cost for taking the CFM exam varies depending on your country/region and whether you are an IFMA member or not. In general, it costs around $550 USD for non-members and $450 USD for members.

10. Professional Convention Management Association Certification (PCMA-CCM).

The Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA) Certified Convention Manager (CCM) program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced convention and meeting professionals. The PCMA-CCM is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to continuing education, ethical practice, and professional development in the field of convention and meeting management.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for the PCMA-CCM certification. To be eligible for the certification, you must have at least four years of experience in the convention and meeting industry, as well as a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education credits related to conventions and meetings. In addition, applicants must pass an online exam covering topics such as event planning, budgeting, risk management, marketing, customer service, and more.

The cost of obtaining the PCMA-CCM certification depends on your current membership status with PCMA. If you are not currently a member of PCMA, then there is an initial fee of $250 plus an annual renewal fee of $50. If you are already a member of PCMA then there is no additional fee for applying for the certification; however, you will need to pay an annual renewal fee of $50 each year after receiving your credential.

Overall, obtaining the PCMA-CCM certification can provide valuable recognition for your work in the convention and meeting industry while also helping you stand out from other professionals in this field.

Do You Really Need a Venue Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a venue manager certificate to become a successful venue manager. While having the proper certification can be beneficial, it is not the only factor that will determine your success in this field. As with any job, experience and knowledge of the industry are essential to becoming an effective manager. In addition to formal education or certifications, having a good understanding of how events work and how best to serve customers is key. Ultimately, having strong interpersonal skills and an ability to problem-solve on the spot will help ensure that you are successful as a venue manager.

Having said that, obtaining a venue manager certificate can be helpful in demonstrating your commitment to the field, as well as providing you with important knowledge about how to properly manage a venue. It can also provide valuable networking opportunities and open up potential job opportunities for those seeking employment in this field.

In summary, while having a venue manager certificate may prove beneficial in certain circumstances, it is not absolutely necessary to have one in order to be successful as a venue manager. What matters most is having the right skill set and experience for the job.

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FAQs About Venue Manager Certifications

1. What is Venue Manager Certification?

Answer: Venue Manager Certification is an industry-recognized credential for professionals in the venue and event management field. It provides a comprehensive understanding of effective venue management practices, from planning and budgeting to marketing and customer service.

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

Answer: To become certified as a Venue Manager, you must pass an exam administered by the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). You must also have at least two years of experience in the venue or event industry, or be currently enrolled in an accredited program related to this field.

3. Is there any cost associated with becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, there is an application fee and exam fee associated with obtaining your certification. The exact amount varies depending on your country of residence and other factors.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Venue Manager can help you stand out from your peers and demonstrate your commitment to professional excellence in the field of event and venue management. Additionally, it may provide access to exclusive job opportunities and higher salaries for those who hold the certification.

5. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: It can take up to six months from start to finish to complete all the requirements for certification, including passing the exam and submitting all necessary paperwork.