How to Get a Procurement Certification That Is Worth It?

How to get procurement certification isn’t just a question but can be a turning point. If you’re stuck in the same purchasing role, wondering why promotions keep passing you by, the answer is simple: credibility.

Employers no longer want “order placers.” They want certified professionals who can cut million-dollar deals, manage supplier risk, and prove their expertise.

This guide is your no-fluff roadmap to choosing the right procurement certification, earning it step by step, and using it to command higher pay and better roles.

Why Procurement Certification Is a Career Game-Changer

Procurement today is high-stakes. Global supply chain disruptions, inflation, and sustainability pressures mean companies can’t afford mistakes. That’s why certifications have become career currency.

Here’s what they give you:

Instant authority: Certification stamps your skills with international recognition.
Bigger paychecks: Certified procurement professionals earn 18% more.
Mobility: Programs like CIPS or CPSM are recognized across 100+ countries.
Relevance: You stay on top of negotiation, supplier management, and ethical sourcing trends.

Think of it as the difference between being a “buyer” and being the professional companies that fight to hire.

The Most Valuable Procurement Certifications

The terms procurement and purchasing are sometimes used interchangeably, but they refer to different parts of the buying process. Understanding the difference is key to grasping procurement’s strategic value.

1. CIPP (Certified International Procurement Professional – PPC)

Learn end-to-end procurement processes from requisition to payment.
Master supplier evaluation and contract management.
Gain global recognition to stand out in international markets.
Build the confidence to handle cross-border procurement challenges.

2. CIPM (Certified International Procurement Manager – PPC)

Develop strategic sourcing and negotiation expertise.
Lead supplier relationship management at an executive level.
Drive business savings and efficiency through advanced procurement strategies.
Position yourself for managerial and director-level roles.

3. CSCP (Certified Supply Chain Professional – APICS)

Broad certification for procurement, logistics, and supply chain integration.
Perfect for professionals in global corporations.

4. CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management – APICS)

Deep dive into manufacturing, procurement planning, and operations.
Best for professionals in production-heavy industries.

5. CIPP (Certified International Procurement Professional – IPSCMI)

Entry-level international procurement focus.
Requires associate degree or 3 years’ experience.

6. CIPM (Certified International Procurement Manager – IPSCMI)

Advanced program for procurement managers.
Builds on CIPP and focuses on strategic leadership.

7. CIPS (Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply)

Levels from entry to executive.
Covers sourcing, commercial law, and global procurement ethics.
Recognized in 180+ countries.

8. CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management – ISM)

Mid to senior-level professionals.
Requires 3 years’ experience with a degree or 5 without.
Exam focuses on leadership, supplier management, and risk.
Renewal every 3 years.

How Certification Impacts Your Career

Here’s what happens after you learn how to get procurement certification and follow through:

Salary jump: Certified professionals earn up to 18% more.
Faster promotions: Employers prioritize certified talent for leadership roles.
Global doors open: Work anywhere from Dubai to London with a credential like CIPS.
Strategic credibility: You’re no longer seen as “placing orders.” You’re seen as creating value.

Research shows one credential adds 16–34% more in median salary, depending on how many you hold.