The Future of Purchasing Certifications: What to Expect in the Next 5 Years

In the next 5 years, the demand for purchasing certifications is likely to continue to grow as companies seek to develop the skills and capabilities of their purchasing professionals. Here are some potential certifications that may become more popular in the next 5 years:

  1. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM): The CPSM certification, offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), is designed for professionals who are looking to advance their careers in supply management. The certification covers a range of topics, including supplier diversity, sustainability, risk management, and strategic sourcing.
  2. Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM): The CPM certification, also offered by ISM, is designed for professionals who have several years of experience in purchasing and are looking to demonstrate their expertise in the field. The certification covers topics such as contract management, negotiation, and supplier relationship management.
  3. Certified Professional Purchasing Manager (CPPM): The CPPM certification, offered by the American Purchasing Society (APS), is designed for professionals who are responsible for purchasing goods and services for their organization. The certification covers topics such as purchasing law, contract management, and ethics.
  4. Certified Professional in Distribution and Warehousing (CPDW): The CPDW certification, also offered by APS, is designed for professionals who are responsible for managing the distribution and warehousing of products. The certification covers topics such as inventory management, logistics, and supply chain optimization.
  5. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM): The CPIM certification, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), is designed for professionals who are involved in the planning, scheduling, and control of production and inventory. The certification covers topics such as demand management, material requirements planning, and capacity planning.

Overall, as the purchasing function becomes increasingly important for organizations, there is likely to be a continued demand for certifications that demonstrate expertise and competence in the field. Professionals who hold these certifications may have a competitive advantage in the job market and be better equipped to succeed in their roles.