Benefits to earning the Certified Professional in Supply Management® (CPSM) and maintaining the Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.)

The CPSM® qualification will enable professionals to gain a clear understanding of their organization's supply operation and enable managers to take an active role in critical decisions. Each step in the development of an organization's products and/or services is controlled by supply management. Current evolution of the profession dictates that a strategic level qualification is needed for professionals to effectively implement innovative supply strategies throughout their entire organization. The CPSM® will be a milestone for those professionals who take ownership of their careers. Surveys indicate those with professional designations report higher annual compensation than those without certification. Pursuing your CPSM® qualification is your chance to leverage your knowledge and experience into career advancement.

Organizations have communicated to ISM that they value the C.P.M. as evidence of a solid baseline of purchasing knowledge. The CPSM® qualification will also recognize individual competencies in the broader area of supply management. The CPSM® will emphasize major segments of the supply management profession; holders of the qualification will attain a greater understanding of their organization's supply network and have the skills to make more accurate and profitable decisions.

The supply management profession has evolved into one of the most strategic and cost-leveraging functions in today's competitive business environment, therefore maintaining your Certified Purchasing Manager (C.P.M.) designation may help advance your career. C.P.M. certification helps you to develop the skills needed to solve problems effectively, negotiate at a higher level and take the lead in accomplishing the strategic goals set by your organization. Experienced professionals with or without a four-year university degree can greatly benefit by maintaining their C.P.M. regardless of their current focus in supply management.