ISM to introduce “skill-based” certification

Coming at a time when the nation’s unemployment figures remaining static, The Institute for Supply Management (ISM) has announced a new certification option for professionals who aim to prove their experience and broad-based knowledge in all the major components of supply management.

The Certified in Supply Management (CSM) designation debuts November 15, 2011 and will allow practitioners to demonstrate knowledge in supply management, regardless of whether they have a college degree.

“While this initiative was not driven by the continued lull in the economy, it may certainly help,” said ISM CEO Paul Novak, CPSM, C.P.M., A.P.P., MCIPS.

In an interview with SCMR, Novak added that many armed forces veterans would also be among those taking advantage of this opportunity.

ISM Professional Credentials Committee Chair Karen Fedele, CPSM, C.P.M., said the new CSM is also good for her organiztion:

“The CSM meets the needs of a large number of our constituents who want a designation that accurately reflects their knowledge and dedication to their chosen career, but were not in a position to pursue a four-year degree,” Fedele said.

Fedele added that by adding this current, “relevant” designation, ISM is providing an option that recognizes the expanded sphere of supply management.

ISM Board Chair Sidney Johnson, CPSM, stressed ISM’s mission to lead and serve supply management by providing opportunities that advance the profession and, at the same time, allow individuals to advance in their careers.

“Basic skills are no longer sufficient to compete in the international arena,” Johnson says. “ISM has global reach and the new CSM option gives a broad range of practitioners a valuable way to prove and leverage their supply management knowledge and expertise.”

The new CSM tests the same body of knowledge as ISM’s Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) credential, which debuted in 2008. CSM eligibility is dependent on a candidate’s educational background and work experience.

Eligibility requirements for the CSM are:
· Successfully pass three CSM Exams or if a C.P.M. in good standing, pass the CSM Bridge Exam.
· Three years of full-time, professional supply management experience (non-clerical, non-support) with an associate’s degree from a regionally accredited institution (or international equivalent) or five years full-time, professional supply management experience (non-clerical, non-support).

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