Top 10: Supply Chain Accreditations

Accreditations for supply chain professionals are essential for advancing careers and validating knowledge in key areas including logistics, procurement and risk management. 

These certifications not only enhance professional credibility but also equip supply chain experts with the skills required to optimise processes, improve efficiency and drive sustainable growth. 

With businesses increasingly relying on skilled professionals to manage intricate supply networks, holding recognised accreditations ensures individuals stay competitive, relevant and prepared to lead in a rapidly-evolving industry.

Here, Supply Chain Digital takes a look at the top 10 supply chain accreditations.

10. Certified Supply Chain Expert (CSCE)

The Supply Chain Institute (SCI) is devoted to excellence in teaching, learning and research in supply chain management.

SCI is recognised around the world as a premier, full-service provider of education in demand planning and forecasting, S&OP, logistics, procurement, operational excellence and lean manufacturing. 

Among its Level 2 certifications is the Certified Supply Chain Expert (CSCE), which can be achieved by taking an online examination covering the entire SCM spectrum. 

9. CILT

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK) supports professionals working in logistics and transport – on land, sea and in the air across all sectors.

Such is its pedigree that CILT-accredited programmes are globally-recognised benchmarks for logistics and transport training. 

CILT sets the standards for university degree courses, apprenticeships programmes and professional development schemes and short courses delivered by specialist training providers. 

Only programmes that meet the requirements needed for students to excel gain accreditation.

8. Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM)

The Certified Supply Chain Manager (CSCM) programme combines theory and current industry practice to provide professionals with the insight necessary to make difficult, everyday decisions. 

Modules include supply chain strategy, logistics and relationship management.

The CSCM is the ideal programme for:

• Supply chain professionals empowered to make strategic decisions
• Organisations wanting to improve their competitive edge by providing executives with a holistic supply chain perspective
• Individuals leading a supply chain transformation
• Top-level managers, entrepreneurs and business consultants

7. Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Resilience and agility are both crucial if modern-day supply chains are to thrive.

Offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), the APICS Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) designation is an opportunity for professionals to demonstrate their ability to optimise inventory levels, improve forecasting and master scheduling tools.

Key areas of focus in CPIM 8.0 include: 

• Sales and operations planning
• Supply and demand
• Inventory management
• Distribution 
• Detailed scheduling
• Quality, technology and continuous improvement

6. Lean Six Sigma Certification in Supply Chain Management

Six Sigma is a methodology that utilises statistical tools and concepts to identify variations or defects in a process.

Although the roots of Six Sigma are in manufacturing, it can naturally be extended to the supply chain.  

An accredited Six Sigma Certification in Supply Chain Management indicates an individual has achieved a particular level of knowledge in the study and application of this methodology. 

Obtaining this type of certification stands to make supply chain professionals a more valuable asset and positions them to enhance their careers. 

5. IoSCM Level 7

The Institute of Supply Chain Management (IoSCM) Level 7 Supply Chain Academy is dedicated to helping those working within the supply chain space in a senior management role.

A course in Supply Chain Management and Operations Strategy can be custom-built to meet job specifications, employer objectives and career ambitions. 

Key learning objectives at Level 7, which is equivalent to a Master’s degree, include:

• Gaining a comprehensive understanding of key aspects of strategic supply chain management 
• The ability to implement learning into job roles within the industry 
• Understanding the importance of strategic management in meeting business objectives.

4. MCIPS

MCIPS is a professional designation representing the global and professional standard within the procurement and supply chain profession.

At least 55% of employers request MCIPS or that applicants are studying towards it when recruiting, according to The Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS). 

CIPS offers a range of flexible pathways to MCIPS, including a host of internationally-recognised qualifications.

Those who obtain MCIPS accreditation demonstrate their expertise and professional potential to employers, clients and peers, while also commanding higher salaries and bonuses. 

3. Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM)

Developed by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM), a trailblazer in supply management education, the Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM) accreditation is recognised across numerous industries.

Created using in-depth analysis of supply management functions, the training programme addresses the realities of supply management, as well as workplace complexities including globalisation, technology and expanded competencies with potential to drive added value. 

Earning the CPSM qualification not only allows individuals to stand out from their peers, but also gives them advanced skills and a far greater understanding of the end-to-end supply chain. 

2. Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)

The Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) offers cutting-edge training and certification programmes designed to equip professionals with essential knowledge, best practices and credentials to drive meaningful change – both in their careers and within organisations.

CSCMP's certifications and training stand out in the supply chain space as they cover the entire end-to-end supply chain, from sourcing to customer service, and are applicable across all sectors and business types.

The SCPro certification, for example, is a tiered programme, beginning with an entry-level, industry-recognized certificate to develop core supply chain skills. This progresses to a professional-level certification that assesses comprehensive, integrated supply chain expertise.

1. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

In this ongoing era of disruption, supply chains are crucial if business operations are to run smoothly, consumers are to receive the goods they need and society is to function. 

The APICS Certified Supply Chain Certification (CSCP) – another offering from the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) – is the playbook professionals need to truly deliver. 

This comprehensive programme covers supply chains from top to bottom, from suppliers right the way through to end-customers. 

Key topics include:

• Demand management and forecasting
• Global supply chain networks
• Sourcing products and services
• Internal operations and inventory
• Forward and reverse logistics
• Supply chain relationships
• Risk and resilience
• Optimisation, sustainability and technology

Earning a CSCP designation demonstrates a readiness to prepare for and overcome disruption, manage risk and implement modern supply chain technologies.

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