CPSM vs CPIM vs CIPM

The question of CPSM vs CPIM is a common consideration in the procurement industry, as professionals seeking certifications often struggle with selecting the right program.

In addition to these two, another certification is also being increasingly preferred by top procurement executives: the CIPM (Certified International Procurement Manager).

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CPSM vs CPIM vs CIPM

CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management), CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management), and CIPM (Certified International Procurement Manager) are all excellent choices when it comes to certifications for procurement professionals.

However, they come with their own strengths. For example, where one may emphasize inventory and ground management, another might be more leadership-oriented with an international approach.

Only after understanding the programs and their differences can you find the right certification for yourself.

CPSM: Certified Professional in Supply Management

The CPSM focuses specifically on procurement and supply management. It’s designed for professionals who want to specialize in areas like procurement, sourcing, and supply chain risk management.

Who is CPSM for?

CPSM is ideal for procurement and supply chain management professionals who want to deepen their expertise. It’s especially useful for those focusing on strategic sourcing, supplier relationships, and purchasing.

What does CPSM cover?

The CPSM curriculum covers these four major areas, focusing on:

Supply management core concepts
Procurement, cost optimization, and financial analysis
Operational efficiency and leadership
Technological integration

Eligibility and Cost

To be eligible for the CPSM certification, you need to have at least,

5 years of professional experience in supply management

Three years of professional experience in supply management with an undergraduate degree

The CPSM exam costs a minimum of $4,500 depending on your membership status with the ISM.

CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management)

CPIM is a resilience-focused program designed to help professionals acquire comprehensive knowledge about supply chain and inventory management.

Who is CPIM for?

CPIM is designed for professionals working with ERP systems, MRP assistance, direction of capacity requirement planning, and other manufacturing and production management roles.

If you’re looking to enhance your expertise in inventory storage, flow, and handling procedures, CPIM is a good certification to explore.

What does CPIM cover?

CPIM is focused on the technical aspects of supply chain management, specifically around inventory and production, and includes,

Supply chain strategy and demand forecasting
Supply and inventory management and optimization
Quality management, technological integration, and continuous improvement

Eligibility and Cost

CPIM has no educational or previous experience-related requirements.

The exam cost ranges from $4,000 to $6,000 depending on your membership status with APCIS.

CIPM: Certified International Procurement Manager

The CIPM certification focuses on practical skills that procurement managers can immediately apply in their work. It’s a globally recognized program aimed at senior procurement professionals looking to advance into management roles.

Who is CIPM for?

CIPM or Certified International Procurement Manager certification is designed to help striving procurement professionals and experienced executives looking to advance further in their careers.

CIPM is perfect for:

Aspiring procurement professionals looking to get into senior management positions
Experienced executives who want to take their careers to the next level.
Professionals working with global suppliers, international contracts, and cross-border supply chains.
Procurement professionals interested in working with international teams or suppliers.
Individuals interested in taking up leadership roles in procurement

What does CIPM cover?

CIPM includes the following key areas:

Leadership and management in procurement
Supplier relationship management
Strategic sourcing and global sourcing

The course is practical and directly applicable to real-world procurement challenges, making it a valuable investment for experienced professionals looking to enhance their leadership and strategic skills.

Eligibility and Cost

CIPM has the following admission requirements,

5+ years of procurement experience
CIPP certification (Those without CIPP certification can apply for relaxation by compensating with additional experience.)
An associate’s degree from a reputable institution OR adequate compensatory experience

The cost of CIPM offered by the Purchasing and Procurement Centre is $2,245 and includes the following,

Live virtual lectures covering 14 modules for 6 weeks
Live in-class 24 guided learning hours
Free study guides
3 hours-long online certification exam
Complete certification after successfully passing

CPSM vs CPIM vs CIPM: Which Should You Choose?

CPSM vs CPIM:

CPSM is a well-established certification focusing on leadership in procurement, and management of supply chain and people for career advancement. As it takes a more theoretical approach to learning, it is best for individuals who have decent experience but want to expand their knowledge base.

On the other hand, CPIM is focused more on fieldwork relating to manufacturing, production, or inventory management. CPIM is designed to teach you the technical aspects of supply chain operations to improve processes and drive efficiency on the production floor.

CPSM vs CPIM vs CIPM

While CPSM is more theory-oriented and CPIM focuses more on the production floor, CIPM blends the best of both to offer knowledge while building practical expertise with actionable strategies and tactics. This is further enhanced by CIPM’s focus on leadership skills, navigation of cross-border procurement, supplier relationships, and international logistics.

All three certifications are valuable and have exceptional repute, however, the key is to choose the one that aligns with your career goals.

If you’re a top-level procurement executive working with global supply chains and looking to expand your career and build up your organization, then CIPM is an excellent choice for you.

Interested in exploring the CIPM? Learn more details regarding the upcoming certification cohort here.

Apply Now!

The CIPM is ideal for professionals seeking to manage procurement functions at the highest level with immediate impact.

Click here to register for the CIPM certification or call +1-312-300-8968 for more information!

Q. Can I pursue multiple certifications?

A: Many professionals choose to pursue multiple certifications throughout their careers. For example, many start with CIPP, and later move on to CIPM for strategic and global expertise.

Q. Is CIPM more practical than CPSM and CPIM?

A: Yes, CIPM is designed to provide practical, hands-on skills that can be implemented immediately in procurement roles, making it more practical than the more theoretical CPSM and CPIM certifications.

Q. Who is eligible for CIPM?

A: CIPM is suitable for professionals with at least five years of procurement experience or those who have completed the CIPP certification.

Q: How much does the CIPM certification cost?

A: The cost of the CIPM certification is $2,245, which includes live virtual training sessions, study materials, and the final exam.

Q: Are procurement certifications essential?

A: While not an absolute necessity, certifications are greatly monumental in helping individuals prove themselves worthy of higher roles. Certifications like CPSM and CIPM also help to boost salaries by 40-70%.

Q: Is the CIPM certification globally recognized, and how will it impact my job prospects?

A: Yes, the CIPM certification is globally recognized and highly regarded in the procurement field. Obtaining this certification will enhance your professional reputation and job prospects, and will open doors to higher-paying and senior management roles.

Q: Are there any hidden fees in the CIPM charges?

A: No. You will be charged exactly $2,245 for the lectures, learning material, exam, and certification all combined.

Q: What if I don’t have a CIPP certification for CIPM?

A: Professionals without the CIPP certification who are interested in CIPM can still register if they have 10+ years of procurement experience. This is, however, subject to review and approval.

Written by Lindsay Chesar (Education Director), Edited by Artin Vaqari (CEO Purchasing & Procurement Center), Updated by Azmi Anees

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