Top 10 VP of Operations Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for a VP of Operations. They demonstrate to potential employers that the person has the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in their role. Certifications can also help a VP of Operations stand out from the competition when applying for a position, as they show that they have taken the initiative to become certified in relevant areas. Additionally, certifications can help a VP of Operations stay up-to-date on current industry trends and best practices. Ultimately, having certifications helps make a VP of Operations more attractive to potential employers, as it shows that they have invested in their own professional development.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for VP of Operations and explain how they can help to advance a VP of Operations' career.

What are VP of Operations Certifications?

VP of Operations Certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to become successful leaders in operations management. This certification program focuses on developing an individual's understanding of the key concepts, strategies, and tools that are essential for successful operations management. The certification can help individuals stand out from the competition by providing employers with evidence of their commitment to excellence in operations management. It also provides them with a framework for continuing professional development and helps them stay abreast of changes in the field. By gaining this certification, individuals will have access to better job opportunities, increased salary potential, and higher levels of responsibility within their organization. Ultimately, VP of Operations Certification can help equip individuals with the skills required to excel in operations management positions and remain competitive in today’s job market.

Pro Tip: When considering certification for a VP of Operations, look for programs that offer specialized courses or certifications in areas such as project management, supply chain management, and operational excellence. These courses can provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to be a successful VP of Operations. Additionally, certification programs can help you demonstrate your commitment to professional development and stand out in the job market.

Related: What does a VP of Operations do?

Top 10 VP of Operations Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to VP of Operationss today.

1. Certified Professional in Operations Management (CPOM)

Certified Professional in Operations Management (CPOM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in the field of operations management. The CPOM certification is offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS), an international association dedicated to providing education, training, and certification programs for supply chain and operations management professionals.

The CPOM certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of key concepts related to operations management, such as inventory control, production planning and scheduling, quality assurance, lean manufacturing principles, project management, and more. To become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam that covers all aspects of operations management.

The CPOM exam takes approximately three hours to complete. It consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that test the applicant's knowledge on topics such as inventory control systems, production planning and scheduling techniques, quality assurance methods, lean manufacturing principles, project management processes, and more.

To get the CPOM certification you must first register with APICS online or by mail. The cost for registration is $495 USD for APICS members or $595 USD for non-members. After registering you will receive access to study materials which will help you prepare for the exam. Once you are ready to take the exam you can schedule it through Prometric testing centers located throughout North America or online through ProctorU.

Once you have successfully passed the exam you will be awarded your Certified Professional in Operations Management (CPOM) certificate from APICS. This certificate is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking the recertification exam every three years or completing continuing education credits every two years.

2. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a certification program designed to help individuals master the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification is designed for professionals who have already earned their Green Belt and are looking to take their knowledge of Lean Six Sigma to the next level.

The CLSSBB certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in leading and managing projects using the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It also requires that applicants pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as process improvement, project management, team dynamics, data analysis, problem solving, and more. The exam typically takes 3-4 hours to complete.

To get the CLSSBB certification, you must first complete a training program from an accredited organization like ASQ or IASSC. After completing the training program, you will need to pass the exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the organization offering the training and exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$3,000 USD for both the training and exam fees combined.

3. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is an advanced certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is a globally recognized professional designation that demonstrates mastery of supply chain management best practices and principles. The CSCP program provides professionals with the knowledge, skills, and tools to effectively manage global supply chain activities, from strategy development to operational implementation.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online course, a comprehensive exam, and a certificate. The online course covers topics such as supply chain strategy, design and management; global logistics; customer service; inventory management; supplier relationship management; transportation and distribution; and performance measurement. The comprehensive exam tests your knowledge on these topics.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CSCP program. To get started, you must first register for the program through ASCM’s website. Once registered, you can access the online course materials and begin studying for the exam. You will also need to pay a fee of $1,295 USD in order to take the exam. After passing the exam, you will receive your official CSCP certificate in the mail within four weeks.

4. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of project management. The PMP credential is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of experienced project managers who are responsible for leading and directing projects.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam. This preparation time includes studying the PMBOK Guide, attending training courses, and taking practice exams. To be eligible for the exam, you must have at least three years of project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

To get your PMP certification, you must first register with PMI and pay the application fee. You will then need to complete an online application form that includes information about your educational background, work experience, and other relevant information. Once your application has been approved, you can take the four-hour multiple-choice exam at a testing center near you.

The cost of obtaining your PMP certification depends on whether or not you are already a member of PMI. If you are not a member, it will cost $555 for non-members to take the exam; if you are a member it will cost $405. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with taking courses or practice exams that are not included in this fee.

5. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality engineering, assurance, and control. The CQE certification is widely recognized as a mark of excellence in the field of quality engineering and assurance.

It typically takes an individual between three to six months to prepare for the CQE exam. This preparation includes studying topics such as statistics, design of experiments, quality control, total quality management, reliability, and customer satisfaction. In addition to studying for the exam, individuals must also complete an application with ASQ that includes a work history and educational background review.

To become certified, individuals must pass a written exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as statistical methods, project management techniques, problem solving methods, quality systems design principles and practices. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates receive their CQE certificate from ASQ.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on factors such as location and membership status with ASQ. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD to take the CQE exam plus any additional fees associated with membership or study materials.

6. Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE)

Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in quality management and organizational excellence.

The CMQ/OE certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, customer focus, leadership and team building, performance measurement, and problem solving. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours.

In order to be eligible to take the CMQ/OE exam, applicants must have eight years of work experience in quality management or organizational excellence. This experience must include at least three years in a decision-making position. Applicants may also substitute education for up to four years of work experience.

The cost of the CMQ/OE certification varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For members, the cost is $399 USD; for non-members it is $499 USD. Additionally, there is a one-time application fee of $50 USD for all applicants.

7. Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Manager (CPIM) is a professional certification program developed by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). It is designed to help supply chain professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in production and inventory management, as well as their commitment to the field.

The CPIM 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. To receive the CPIM designation, candidates must pass all five exams with a score of 70% or higher. The exams are offered at APICS-approved testing centers around the world.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CPIM program. Candidates should expect to spend at least 40 hours studying for each exam. The cost for the CPIM program varies depending on whether you are an APICS member or non-member. For members, it costs $1,995 for all five exams; for non-members it costs $2,495.

8. Certified Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution Professional (CLTD)

Certified Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution Professional (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). The CLTD certification recognizes professionals who have demonstrated mastery of a comprehensive body of knowledge in logistics, transportation, and distribution. To earn the CLTD designation, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as global logistics strategies, supply chain management, freight management, warehousing operations, inventory control systems, reverse logistics operations, and more.

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the CLTD exam. This preparation time can vary depending on the individual's experience level with logistics and transportation. It is recommended that those seeking to obtain their CLTD designation take advantage of study materials offered by AST&L or other third-party providers. Additionally, there are online courses available from AST&L that provide a comprehensive overview of the material covered in the exam.

To become certified as a Certified Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution Professional (CLTD), individuals must register for the exam through AST&L’s website. The cost of registration is $495 USD for members of AST&L or $595 USD for non-members. After registering for the exam, individuals will be able to schedule their test date at one of AST&L’s testing centers located throughout the United States.

Once an individual has successfully passed the CLTD exam they will receive their official certification from AST&L along with access to additional resources such as networking opportunities with other certified professionals in their field.

9. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification (APICS CPIM-F/M/D)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM-F/M/D) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the skills necessary to effectively manage production and inventory control. The CPIM-F/M/D designation indicates that an individual has demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of the principles of production and inventory management, as well as the ability to apply these principles in the workplace.

The CPIM-F/M/D certification consists of three modules: Fundamentals (F), Master Planning of Resources (M), and Detailed Scheduling & Planning (D). Candidates must pass all three modules within five years in order to receive their CPIM-F/M/D designation.

In order to prepare for the CPIM-F/M/D exam, candidates should take an APICS approved course or study independently using APICS approved materials. Additionally, there are online resources available such as practice tests, study guides, and forums that can help candidates prepare for their exams.

The cost of taking the CPIM-F/M/D exam varies depending on whether you choose to take it online or in person. The online exam costs $300 per module while the in person exam costs $400 per module. Additionally, there is a one-time registration fee of $50 when registering for any APICS certification program.

Overall, earning your CPIM-F/M/D certification can take anywhere from several months to a year depending on how much time you dedicate to studying for your exams.

10. International Society for Performance Improvement Certification in Operations Management and Leadership (ISPI C-OML).

The International Society for Performance Improvement Certification in Operations Management and Leadership (ISPI C-OML) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of operations management and leadership professionals. The ISPI C-OML certification is based on the body of knowledge developed by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). The certification program is designed to assess an individual’s ability to lead, manage, and improve operations within an organization.

It typically takes approximately 8 weeks to complete the ISPI C-OML certification process. This includes time spent studying for the exam, completing the application process, and taking the exam itself. The first step towards obtaining this certification is to create an account with ISPI and apply for the certification. Applicants must then submit their educational background information along with a current resume or CV. Once these documents have been approved, applicants can begin studying for the exam.

The cost of obtaining ISPI C-OML certification varies depending on whether you are already a member of ISPI or not. For non-members, it costs $395 USD to take the exam while members pay $295 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with membership if applicable.

Once all requirements have been met and applicants have passed their exams, they will receive their official certificate from ISPI which will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

Do You Really Need a VP of Operations Certificate?

The short answer is no. A VP of Operations Certificate is not required in order to become a successful Vice President of Operations. However, depending on the industry and organization, having a certificate may be beneficial.

For example, if you are looking to work in an organization that has a strong emphasis on operations management or if you are looking to specialize in a certain area of operations, then it would be beneficial to have a VP of Operations Certificate. This certificate will demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in this specific area and could help you stand out among other potential candidates for the position.

Additionally, having a VP of Operations Certificate could provide you with valuable industry contacts and resources that could help you develop your career further. These contacts can provide access to job opportunities, networking events, and professional development seminars that can further your career trajectory in the field of operations management.

In conclusion, whether or not you should pursue a VP of Operations Certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If you think it will provide value for your career path then it might be worth considering obtaining one; however, it is not absolutely necessary for success as a Vice President of Operations.

Related: VP of Operations Resume Examples

FAQs About VP of Operations Certifications

1. What is the purpose of a VP of Operations Certification?

Answer: A VP of Operations Certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise and knowledge in operations management. It provides evidence of an individual’s ability to lead and manage operations efficiently, effectively, and cost-effectively.

2. Who should pursue a VP of Operations Certification?

Answer: Individuals who are interested in pursuing a career as a VP of Operations should consider obtaining a certification. This certification can provide valuable credentials for those seeking leadership roles in the field.

3. What topics are covered in the VP of Operations Certification program?

Answer: The VP of Operations Certification program covers topics such as organizational structure, project management, financial analysis, risk management, strategic planning, and more.

4. How long does it take to complete the VP of Operations Certification program?

Answer: The length of time to complete the program will vary depending on the individual's experience level and commitment to studying and completing coursework. Generally speaking, most students can expect to finish the program in 12-18 months.

5. Where can I find out more information about becoming certified as a VP of Operations?

Answer: You can find out more information about becoming certified as a VP of Operations by visiting websites such as PMI (Project Management Institute) or ISACA (Information Systems Audit and Control Association). Additionally, you may want to contact organizations or universities that offer certifications in this field for more specific information about their programs.