In recent times, the Supply Chain sector has gained massive prominence on account of its indispensable role in varied industries. The scope for employment in the field is limitless as roles involved in ensuring optimized end-to-end operations are aplenty, be it in processes, products or analytics. As it is central to the success of any given business or service provider, people trained in this discipline have a variety of job options to match their interests and skill sets.
Professional certifications project the candidate as someone with great industry knowledge and expertise. These credentials are the yardsticks with which employers evaluate the capabilities of a candidate while making hiring decisions. The application of the acquired skills decreases operational expenses and increases the company’s bottom line. Besides adding value to their profile, it increases their credibility at the workplace.
A supply chain management certification equips you with the right set of skills to manage the global supply chain effortlessly and helps you progress in your career. Furthermore, it gives your organization an edge over competitors. A wide range of highly valued supply chain certifications is available to cater to different needs and experience levels. Among the many benefits of supply chain certifications, the most noticeable ones are recognition, leadership roles, practical skills and increased earning potential.
Whether you are looking to explore the industry as an entry-level executive or to scale up your existing career in the dynamic supply chain sector, the following courses can be of great advantage to you.
APICS Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)
Accredited by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS), also known as ASCM, the Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is designed to equip supply chain professionals with the domain knowledge and skills required to manage the global supply chain effectively. The course covers the fundamentals of the supply chain, distribution and warehousing.
As per APICS, a Certified Supply Chain Professional earns 40% more than non-certified professionals.
IPSCMI Certified International Supply Chain Professional (CISCP) – Certified International Supply Chain Manager (CISCM)
The dual certification CISCP-CISCM, accredited by the International Purchasing and Supply Chain Management Institute (IPSCMI) paves the way to attaining managerial roles in Supply Chain. With a prime focus on purchasing, inventory management, distribution, production planning and control, the certification courses lay a solid foundation for professionals to be experts in international logistics and supply chain management.
It’s designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the technical aspects of supply chains. The fundamental principles of logistics and supply chain management, optimal inventory management and risk management are addressed in detail.
According to IPSCMI, certified personnel receive 25-40% higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
APICS Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)
The APICS Certified in Production and Inventory management (CPIM) is designed to streamline end-to-end supply operations. It imparts the skills required to manage global supply operations and inventory activities. It is one of the highly demanded certifications that help optimize processes in inventory control. It encompasses a wide range of topics that ensures optimal inventory management and organizational profitability in the long run.
It imparts professionals with the necessary skills to tackle supply disruptions, demand variations and unprecedented risks. The subtle aspects of optimal inventory management are covered in the training program.
As per APICS, the CPIM certification can fetch professionals a 23% increased pay than their uncertified counterparts. In order to earn the credential, the candidate should pass two exams within three years.
APICS Supply Chain Operations Reference Digital Standard (SCOR DS)
Designed at four levels of Performance, Process, Practices and People, the SCOR DS model provides a global reference model to optimize supply operations. It describes the business activities including Orchestrate, Plan, Order, Source, Transform, Fulfil and Return.
It involves industry-neutral practices and strategies to streamline supply chain processes which professionals can make use of to stand out at work. Certified in SCOR DS would demonstrate your expertise in the domain and fetches more visibility in the competitive fields of supply chain and logistics. Getting certified in SCOR DS can make one stand out from the rest as it equips professionals with methodology, diagnostic and benchmarking tools for streamlining supply chain processes.
APICS Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)
The APICS Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) imparts an in-depth knowledge of an extensive range of core topics in the supply chain and logistics sector. It involves global strategies and approaches for directing various modes of international trade. CLTD is suitable for anyone looking to lead in the transportation and logistics sector.
According to APICS, a CLTD certification can qualify professionals to earn 25% higher salaries than their uncertified counterparts.
Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) Certifications
The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS) is the largest professional body for procurement all over the world. CIPS certifications set global standards in the procurement and supply chain industry. The certifications are granted at five levels, progressing from CIPS level 2 (Certificate in Procurement and Supply) to Level 6 (Professional Diploma in Procurement and Supply). Designed for both entry-level and senior professionals, the series of certifications cover the basics of planning and forecasting, contract terms and negotiation with suppliers and stakeholders, and the construction of KPIs, among other core areas of the domain.
How to choose the right certification?
Choosing the right certification course can be a bit challenging as there are innumerable certification programs. You need to identify the course that suits your interest and defines your career path with sustained progress.
Blue ocean introduces you to a wide range of professional certifications that will help you attain the required skills and progress in your career. Whether you are new to the industry or seeking professional upgradation, we can assist you in the same.