How to Become a Certified Purchasing Manager

Individuals who are responsible for ordering inventory, supplies and making purchasing decisions for an organization can achieve the certified purchasing manager (CPM) designation. CPM certification is sponsored by the Institute for Supply Management. Applicants must have several years of work experience in the field and a four-year degree from an accredited institution and pass a four-part exam.

Instructions

1. Get enough work experience. All applicants who wish to receive the CPM certification must have either five years of full-time professional (non-clerical and non-support) supply management experience or a four-year degree from an accredited institution plus three years of full-time professional supply management experience. Work experience will be evaluated by the Institute of Supply Management's board.

2. Complete exam preparation courses. The Supply Chain Academy has partnered with the Institute for Supply Management to offer a Certified Purchasing Manager Certification study pack. This study module includes subjects such as Effective Supply Sourcing, Cost and Price Minimization, Supply Acquisition Methods, and other essential courses to prepare for the four-part exam. It consists of ISM Knowledge Center review courses; ISM Diagnostic Kit Volume I (practice exam); Supply Chain Academy courses (specifically mapped to the modules and tasks of the CPM exam); ISM Knowledge Series books and the ISM's Glossary of Key Purchasing & Supply Terms.

3. Learn about the exam modules. The CPM exam consists of four modules: Purchasing Process, Supply Environment, Value Enhancement Strategies and Management.

4. Register for the exam. Visit the Institute for Supply Management website to learn about registration dates and deadlines. Individuals can register for CPM exams online.

5. Wait for your verification notice. The ISM will issue a verification letter or email with your unique exam testing code. You will need this to register at a local testing facility.

6. Take the examination and apply for certification. When you have successfully passed all four modules of the exam, you will need to submit a formal application for the CPM designation through the Institute of Supply Management. This process can be completed online.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for a local study group if you want tutoring help or assistance when studying for the CPM exam. Find books at your local textbook store or library to help you understand key terms and principles. If you fail the exam the first time, you do have the option to re-register for the next exam date.

Resources

• Institute for Supply Management: CPM Certification Information
• Apply for CPM Designation