Institute for Supply Management™ (ISM) announces the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) as the title for the profession's new qualification. The Certified Professional in Supply Management is slated to be the qualification that supply management professionals strive to obtain. The CPSM will be relevant internationally and reflect the expanded education, skills and experience needed to be a successful supply management professional. The CPSM will debut in 2008.

What are the criteria to obtain the CPSM?

The ISM Board of Directors approved that a Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution and at least five years of full-time professional supply management experience (non-clerical, non-support) will be required for the CPSM. Candidates must pass three exams then apply for qualification.

Current C.P.M.s who hold a Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution can take a bridge exam to earn their CPSM. These candidates must also have at least five years of full-time professional supply management experience. Candidates must pass the bridge then apply for qualification.

How will I benefit from pursuing CPSM qualification?

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 certification 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.

How will my organization benefit from my pursuit of CPSM qualification?

The CPSM will emphasize major segments of the supply management profession; CPSMs will attain a greater understanding of their organization's supply network and have the skills to make more accurate and profitable decisions. Supply professionals have the direct ability to impact their organization's success; therefore a strategic level certification is needed for those professionals to implement innovative supply strategies that will be effective for and throughout their entire organization.

For more information, please contact Ms. Ann Punzalan-Saboya at 634-5955; 634-5942 or e-mail at anne@pism.org