Professional Development Resources

Supply Chain professionals generally fall into two career areas associated with two different professional organizations, APICS: The Association for Operations Management, or the Institute of Supply Management. Of course some span both.

Operations Management

Education and certification focused on manufacturing (and service) operations are usually through APICS: The Association for Operations Management. The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) designation is the most established and includes: 1) Demand management 2) Master Scheduling and resource planning 3) Detailed scheduling and planning - MRPII mechanics 4) Execution and control of operations including detailed capacity planning and Lean principles, 5) materials management and inventory control and 6) strategic planning of supply chain design to meet market demand and stakeholder objectives. There is no colledge education requirement to obtain the CPIM certification, nor is there an experience requirement.

APICS instituted a second certification about 10 years ago, the Certified Supply Chain Professional. This is aimed at managers and consultants who focus on broad, strategic, supply chain strategy and enterprise enablers such as ERP and ecommerce. A four year degree is required for certification.

Supply Management

Professionals seeking certification and/or training for strategic sourcing usually look to the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). They sponsor the Certified Purchasing Manager (CPM) designation which is expanding and changing to the Certified Supply Management Professional (CSMP). A four (4) year college degree and successfully passing a series of certification exams is required.