The Certified Global Procurement Specialist (CGPS) certification program is a prestigious and globally focused credential designed to prepare professionals for high-performance roles in international procurement and cross-border sourcing. In an increasingly interconnected world, procurement professionals must go beyond local vendor management to handle global supplier networks, navigate complex international trade regulations, and respond proactively to global supply risks. The CGPS program is designed to provide participants with advanced, practical knowledge in global procurement strategies, supplier governance, compliance frameworks, and sustainable sourcing practices.

Global procurement requires a unique combination of strategic insight, legal awareness, cultural sensitivity, and operational efficiency. The CGPS certification dives deep into the critical components of international procurement, including supplier relationship management across regions, customs and regulatory compliance, trade agreements, and risk mitigation in diverse geopolitical environments. Additionally, the program emphasizes ethics and sustainability—key considerations for modern supply chains that aim to align with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. Whether working for multinational corporations, government agencies, or international NGOs, CGPS-certified professionals will be equipped to manage global sourcing operations with confidence, integrity, and impact.

Certification Program Objectives:

Upon completing the Certified Global Procurement Specialist (CGPS) program, participants will be able to:

• Understand International Procurement Fundamentals: Gain a strong foundation in procurement cycles and processes in the context of global operations and cross-border transactions.
• Manage Global Supplier Networks: Develop strategies to source, evaluate, and manage international suppliers while maintaining performance, reliability, and communication standards.
• Implement Strategic Global Sourcing Plans: Utilize global market intelligence, cost analysis, and total cost of ownership models to optimize sourcing decisions.
• Navigate International Trade Regulations: Understand and apply compliance principles related to import/export controls, Incoterms, customs clearance, and trade agreements.
• Mitigate Global Procurement Risks: Identify and reduce risks related to supplier disruptions, political instability, foreign exchange, and supply chain vulnerabilities.
• Promote Ethical and Sustainable Procurement: Apply ethical sourcing practices, sustainability standards, and corporate social responsibility in global procurement environments.

Certification Eligibility Criteria:

To apply for certification from The American Institute of Business and Management (AIBM) and its allied institutions, candidates must meet at least one of the following criteria:

• A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution

And/or

• 2 to 5 years of relevant work experience in the related professional field.

Note: Applicants who do not hold a Bachelor’s degree but possess exceptional professional experience and hold significant positions within their organizations in a relevant field may also be considered for certification on a case-by-case basis, subject to the approval of the AIBM evaluation committee.

Certifying Examination:

• To be certified as CGPS, student should take up a 1.5 hours online exam conducted by AIPLM.
• The qualifying exam would consist of 50 multiple choice questions, testing core certification modules.
• Professionals with relevant experience and other qualifying criteria may be exempted from the examination.

Certification Modules:

• Module 1: International Procurement Fundamentals
• Module 2: Global Supplier Management
• Module 3: Strategic Sourcing Strategies
• Module 4: International Trade Regulations and Compliance
• Module 5: Risk Management in Global Procurement
• Module 6: Ethics and Sustainability in Procurement

* The modules of the certification are constantly updated and are subject to change.

Who Should Do This Certification:

The CGPS certification is ideal for professionals responsible for or transitioning into roles that require managing international procurement functions and global supply networks. This includes:

• Procurement and Sourcing Specialists: Individuals responsible for identifying, negotiating, and managing overseas suppliers can benefit from global sourcing strategies and compliance training.
• Supply Chain Professionals: Professionals seeking to expand their expertise in international logistics, supplier performance, and end-to-end procurement operations across regions.
• Category Managers and Buyers: Category leads overseeing global commodities or services can refine their approach to cost analysis, supplier diversification, and sustainable procurement.
• Trade and Compliance Officers: Specialists in import/export operations or customs compliance can apply this certification to strengthen procurement controls and regulatory alignment.
• Operations and Project Managers: Those involved in large-scale or cross-border projects where global sourcing and vendor coordination are critical to execution and timeline management.
• International Development and NGO Procurement Staff: Professionals working in donor-funded or humanitarian procurement environments will gain the tools to maintain compliance, transparency, and ethics in sourcing.
• Consultants and Procurement Advisors: Consultants supporting global clients can benefit from standardized frameworks and best practices in international procurement.
• Entrepreneurs and Business Owners: Leaders sourcing products globally for manufacturing, resale, or distribution will find CGPS useful in reducing risks, improving sourcing quality, and enhancing supplier collaboration.

The CGPS certification empowers professionals with the strategic and operational capabilities needed to lead international procurement initiatives, improve sourcing performance, and build ethical, sustainable, and resilient global supply networks.