Top Certifications for Asset Managers in 2024 (Ranked)

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Getting Certified as a Asset Manager

As the financial industry continues to grow in complexity and sophistication, obtaining certifications becomes an essential step for Asset Managers aiming to validate their expertise and distinguish themselves in a competitive market. For both aspiring and seasoned Asset Managers, certifications provide a structured pathway to acquire and demonstrate critical industry knowledge, from portfolio management to risk assessment.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the diverse certification landscape, aligning your choices with your career goals and the evolving demands of the asset management sector. Whether you're just beginning your journey or seeking to enhance your skills, understanding the value and impact of these certifications is key to forging a successful career in asset management.

Top Asset Manager Certifications

Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM)

Business Relationship Management Institute (BRMI)

Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I)

Compliance Certification Board (CCB)

Certified Credit and Risk Analyst (CCRA)

National Association of Credit Management (NACM)

Certified Financial Services Security Professional (CFSSP)

Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB)

Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)

Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP)

Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP)

Sales Management Association (SMA)

Certified Business Operations Professional (CBOP)

International Association of Business Operations Professionals (IABOP)

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Institute (PMI)

Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

APICS (Association for Supply Chain Management)

Best Asset Manager Certifications

Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM)

Certification Provider

Business Relationship Management Institute (BRMI)

Best For

Senior Business Relationship Managers, IT Relationship Managers, Experienced BRM Consultants, Strategic Partnership Managers, Business Transformation Managers, Senior Project/Program Managers

Description

The Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM) is a prestigious certification offered by the Business Relationship Management Institute (BRMI) that equips professionals with advanced strategies and tools to foster effective business relationships. This certification delves into the art and science of business value creation, emphasizing relationship management as a strategic capability. It is designed for seasoned BRMs who aim to drive business transformation and growth through influential partnerships and a deep understanding of business needs and IT capabilities. The CBRM certification involves rigorous training and examination, ensuring that certified professionals are adept at shaping business demand and delivering high-impact business outcomes.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

40 hours

Price

Prerequisites

Hold the Business Relationship Management Professional (BRMP) certification or equivalent experience.

Minimum of one year of work experience in a business relationship management role after becoming a BRMP.

Completion of an accredited CBRM training course provided by a BRMI Authorized Training Provider (ATP).

Understanding of the BRM Body of Knowledge (BRMBOK).

Pass the CBRM certification exam.

Commitment to adhere to the BRMI Code of Ethics.

Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I)

Certification Provider

Compliance Certification Board (CCB)

Best For

Compliance Officers, Ethics Program Managers, International Regulatory Affairs Specialists, Corporate Compliance Lawyers, Senior Compliance Analysts, Risk Management Consultants

Description

The Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I) credential, offered by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB), is a globally recognized certification for compliance professionals operating across international boundaries. It validates an individual's expertise in managing compliance responsibilities, understanding and applying international compliance laws, and promoting ethical practices within organizations. Candidates must pass an examination that covers international compliance standards, risk assessment, and effective compliance program development and management. This certification is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their credibility and advance their careers in the global compliance field.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

A minimum of 1,500 hours of direct compliance and ethics duties within the last 12 months prior to applying for the exam.

A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited university, which can reduce the required hours of work experience to 1,000 within the last 12 months.

Completion of 20 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in compliance and ethics, 10 of which may come from job experience, within the last 12 months before applying for the exam.

Agreement to adhere to the CCB Code of Ethics.

Submission of an application with the appropriate fee to the Compliance Certification Board (CCB).

Passing the CCEP-I examination.

Certified Credit and Risk Analyst (CCRA)

Certification Provider

National Association of Credit Management (NACM)

Best For

Credit Analysts, Risk Management Officers, Financial Analysts, Commercial Lenders, Credit Risk Managers, Business Credit Managers

Description

The Certified Credit and Risk Analyst (CCRA) is a prestigious certification offered by the National Association of Credit Management (NACM) designed for credit professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in credit risk analysis and management. This certification focuses on equipping candidates with advanced skills in evaluating creditworthiness, interpreting financial statements, and understanding the legal aspects of credit. Through a rigorous examination process, the CCRA credential validates a professional's ability to assess risk effectively and make informed credit decisions, thereby contributing to the financial stability and success of their organizations.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

A minimum of three years of experience in the field of business credit or financial management.

Completion of the Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation or equivalent coursework in accounting, finance, and business credit principles.

Submission of a completed CCRA application along with the current resume.

Passing the CCRA examination, which assesses knowledge of credit risk analysis, financial statement interpretation, and legal aspects of credit.

Agreement to abide by the NACM Code of Ethics.

Maintenance of the certification through continuing education requirements as specified by NACM.

Certified Financial Services Security Professional (CFSSP)

Certification Provider

Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB)

Best For

Information Security Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Risk Management Officer, Bank Security Officer, Compliance Officer, IT Security Consultant

Description

The Certified Financial Services Security Professional (CFSSP) certification, offered by the Institute of Certified Bankers (ICB), is a prestigious credential for security and risk professionals in the financial services industry. It validates expertise in protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the information assets of banks and financial institutions. The certification focuses on cybersecurity, physical security, information security, and risk management practices, ensuring that certified professionals are equipped to handle the dynamic security challenges in the financial sector. Obtaining the CFSSP demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security and trust in financial services.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

A minimum of two years of experience in financial services security or a related field.

Completion of professional development activities, such as attending workshops or conferences related to financial security, which amount to a certain number of credits.

Adherence to the ICB's Professional Code of Ethics.

Passing the CFSSP examination, which assesses knowledge in areas such as cybersecurity, physical security, and risk management.

A recommendation from a manager or supervisor attesting to the candidate's qualifications and experience in financial services security.

Continuing education requirements to maintain the certification, which typically involves earning a certain number of credits every three years.

Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)

Certification Provider

Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP)

Best For

Change Management Consultants, Organizational Development Specialists, Project Managers with change management responsibilities, Human Resources Professionals involved in organizational change, Business Transformation Managers, Senior Executives overseeing change initiatives

Description

The Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) is a globally recognized credential offered by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP). This certification is designed for individuals specializing in change management who wish to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to the discipline. It focuses on validating a candidate's knowledge of ACMP's Standard for Change Management© and their ability to apply best practices in initiating, managing, and sustaining change in organizations. Obtaining the CCMP requires meeting specific educational and professional experience criteria, as well as passing a comprehensive exam.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

Price

$595

Prerequisites

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and a minimum of 3 years (4200 hours) of change management experience within the last 7 years

Secondary education (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) and a minimum of 5 years (7000 hours) of change management experience within the last 7 years

Completion of 21 hours of instructor-led change management training aligned with the ACMP’s Standard for Change Management© within the last 7 years

Agreement to adhere to the ACMP Code of Ethics

Completion and submission of the CCMP application and payment of the application fee

Passing the CCMP examination

Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP)

Certification Provider

Sales Management Association (SMA)

Best For

Sales Directors, Regional Sales Managers, Sales Operations Managers, Senior Sales Executives with 5+ years experience, Sales Training and Development Managers, Vice Presidents of Sales

Description

The Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP) certification, offered by the Sales Management Association (SMA), is designed for sales leaders seeking to enhance their strategic management skills and sales team performance. This program focuses on advanced sales leadership principles, including strategic planning, talent development, and sales operations efficiency. Earning the CSLP demonstrates a commitment to best practices in sales leadership and a mastery of the competencies necessary to drive sales team success in a competitive marketplace.

Includes Certification

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

A minimum number of years of professional experience in sales leadership or management roles

Completion of a formal application process through the Sales Management Association (SMA)

Participation in required CSLP training courses or workshops provided by SMA

Passing a comprehensive certification examination that covers the core competencies of sales leadership

Adherence to the SMA's code of ethics for sales professionals

Commitment to continuing education and professional development to maintain certification status

Certified Business Operations Professional (CBOP)

Certification Provider

International Association of Business Operations Professionals (IABOP)

Best For

Operations Manager, Business Process Analyst, Project Manager, Operations Analyst, Supply Chain Coordinator, Continuous Improvement Specialist

Description

The Certified Business Operations Professional (CBOP) credential, offered by the International Association of Business Operations Professionals (IABOP), is designed for individuals seeking to demonstrate expertise in the core areas of business operations. This certification emphasizes the importance of efficient business processes, project management, operational strategy, and performance improvement. Candidates will gain knowledge in operational best practices and will be equipped with the skills necessary to optimize business functions, enhance productivity, and drive organizational success. The CBOP is ideal for professionals aiming to validate their operational management skills and advance their careers.

Includes Certification

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

A minimum of a bachelor's degree in business, operations management, or a related field, or equivalent work experience

At least two years of professional experience in business operations or a related area

Completion of the CBOP training program or courses offered by the IABOP or its approved providers

Understanding of core business operations concepts, including process management, project management, and operational strategy

Passing the CBOP certification examination

Agreement to adhere to the IABOP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certification Provider

Project Management Institute (PMI)

Best For

Project Managers, Senior Project Managers, Project Coordinators, Project Analysts, Program Managers, Project Team Leaders

Description

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is a globally recognized credential for project managers. It signifies a professional’s ability to manage projects efficiently, leading to successful outcomes. The certification process assesses a candidate's understanding of key project management concepts, methodologies, and best practices, as outlined in PMI's PMBOK Guide. Earning a PMP certification requires meeting education and experience requirements, passing a rigorous exam, and committing to ongoing professional development.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

60-120 hours

Price

$555

Prerequisites

A secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or the global equivalent)

7,500 hours leading and directing projects

35 hours of project management education, or CAPM Certification

Alternatively, a four-year degree

4,500 hours leading and directing projects

35 hours of project management education, or CAPM Certification

Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)

Certification Provider

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)

Best For

Internal Auditors in Financial Services, Audit Managers in Banking, Risk Management Officers, Compliance Analysts, Financial Services Audit Consultants, Senior Auditors with Financial Industry Experience

Description

The Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) is a professional credential offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) for audit professionals specializing in banking, insurance, securities, and other financial services. The certification demonstrates expertise in auditing principles and practices within the financial services industry. Candidates must pass an examination that covers financial services auditing, fraud, financial instruments, and regulatory environments. This certification is ideal for those looking to advance their careers in financial services auditing and risk management.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

A minimum of a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited college-level institution is required.

Proof of work experience in a financial services environment, with a minimum of 24 months of internal auditing experience or its equivalent.

Agreement to abide by the IIA's Code of Ethics.

Completion of the Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) examination.

Maintenance of continuing professional education (CPE) credits to sustain the certification.

IIA membership is recommended but not mandatory for certification.

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certification Provider

APICS (Association for Supply Chain Management)

Best For

Supply Chain Manager, Inventory Control Manager, Production Planner, Materials Manager, Operations Manager, Demand Planner

Description

The Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) credential, offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (APICS), is a prestigious certification for professionals in the production and inventory management sector. It focuses on imparting essential knowledge in demand management, procurement, supply chain dynamics, and operations management. Earning the CPIM demonstrates expertise in streamlining operations, improving production scheduling, and optimizing resource management, making certificate holders valuable assets in the global supply chain industry. The certification process involves rigorous coursework and exams, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices that drive efficient production and inventory management.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

300-400 hours

Price

Prerequisites

A high school diploma or equivalent is required; a bachelor’s degree is recommended but not mandatory.

Membership in APICS is recommended to receive member discounts on study materials and exams but is not a requirement.

No specific work experience is required, but it is beneficial to have some background in production and inventory management or a related field.

Completion of the CPIM learning system coursework or equivalent self-study with APICS-approved educational materials.

Passing scores on both CPIM Part 1 and CPIM Part 2 exams.

Maintenance of certification through the accumulation of Continuing Education points is required every five years to retain the CPIM designation.

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Benefits of Having a Asset Manager Certification

In a field as dynamic and competitive as asset management, standing out can be as crucial as your ability to manage assets effectively. Earning a certification in asset management is not just about adding another accolade to your resume; it’s about substantiating your expertise, enhancing your professional credibility, and expanding your understanding of industry practices. For job seekers and aspiring asset managers, a certification can be the differentiator that sets you apart in the job market, equipping you with the latest skills and knowledge to excel in this ever-evolving field. Let’s explore the key benefits of obtaining an Asset Manager certification and how it can catalyze your career growth.

Industry Recognition and Credibility: An Asset Manager certification from a reputable organization is a testament to your commitment and expertise in the field. It signals to employers and peers that you have a validated understanding of asset management best practices, increasing your credibility in the industry.

Enhanced Skill Set and Knowledge: Certifications provide structured learning on various aspects of asset management, from risk assessment to portfolio optimization. They help in filling knowledge gaps and staying updated with the latest industry trends, ensuring you have the skills to handle complex asset management challenges.

Career Advancement and Opportunities: Certifications can open doors to new career opportunities, particularly for those transitioning into asset management from different fields. They can be a significant advantage in job applications, promotions, and negotiations, demonstrating your dedication to professional development.

Networking and Community Engagement: Many certification programs offer access to professional networks and communities. This can be invaluable for building connections, learning from industry leaders, and gaining insights into diverse asset management practices.

Building Confidence and Competence: The process of earning a certification can boost your confidence in your asset management abilities. It reassures you and potential employers of your competence to manage assets effectively, equipping you with both the theoretical and practical tools needed for success.

How to Choose the Best Asset Manager Certification

Choosing the right certification as an Asset Manager is a pivotal decision that can significantly influence your career progression. With a multitude of certifications available, each offering distinct advantages, the challenge lies in selecting one that aligns with your career goals, enhances your current skill set, and meets the specific demands of the roles you aspire to. This section aims to simplify the decision-making process, providing practical tips to help you evaluate and choose a certification that not only complements your professional experience but also accelerates your career growth.

Align with Career Goals: Evaluate how a certification aligns with your long-term career objectives. If you aim to move into senior management or leadership roles, consider certifications that emphasize strategic asset allocation and portfolio management. For those focused on specialized areas like real estate or fixed income, look for certifications that delve deeply into these niches.
Relevance to Current Industry Trends: Opt for certifications that are in tune with the latest industry trends and future directions. For instance, certifications that cover sustainable investing, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria, or advanced data analytics can be particularly valuable in the evolving landscape of asset management.
Accreditation and Recognition: Choose certifications from well-recognized institutions or organizations renowned for their authority in asset management. This ensures that your certification is respected and valued by employers and peers within the industry, enhancing your professional credibility.
Practical Application and Networking Opportunities: Look for certifications that offer practical, hands-on experience and opportunities to network with other professionals. The ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios and build connections within the industry can be as beneficial as the certification itself.
Feedback from Certified Professionals: Seek insights from colleagues or mentors who have completed the certifications you are considering. Their feedback on the curriculum, the benefits they experienced, and the impact on their career can provide valuable guidance in making an informed decision.

Preparing for Your Asset Manager Certification

Preparing for an Asset Manager certification is a crucial step in advancing your career in the financial industry. It requires more than just enrolling in a course; it demands a strategic approach to studying and a clear understanding of your professional goals. Whether you are aiming for a broad-based certification or one with a specialized focus, these guidelines will help ensure you are well-prepared to absorb the material, pass the exam, and most importantly, apply the learnings in your professional life.

Set Clear Objectives: Before you begin your study journey, define what you hope to achieve through the certification. Are you looking to gain a comprehensive understanding of asset management, or are you aiming to specialize in areas such as portfolio management, risk assessment, or sustainable investing? Setting clear objectives will guide your study approach and keep you focused on the most relevant topics.

Create a Structured Study Plan: Develop a structured study plan that covers all the key areas of the certification curriculum. Allocate specific time blocks for studying, and break down the material into manageable sections. This will help you cover the coursework systematically without feeling overwhelmed. Remember to include time for review and practice exams to reinforce your understanding and gauge your readiness.

Engage with the Asset Management Community: Interacting with fellow Asset Managers can provide invaluable insights beyond the course material. Join study groups, participate in online forums, and attend webinars or workshops. Engaging with the community can offer different perspectives, clarify doubts, and provide practical tips from those who have already gone through the certification process.

Practical Application: Whenever possible, apply the concepts you're learning to real-world scenarios. This could be through case studies, simulations, or even applying the principles to projects you're currently working on. Applying what you learn to practical situations will deepen your understanding and retention of the material.

Utilize Multiple Resources: Don't rely solely on the course material. Supplement your studies with additional resources such as textbooks, industry reports, and online courses. Diversifying your study materials can provide a broader perspective and a deeper understanding of complex topics.

Regular Self-Assessment: Regularly test your knowledge with quizzes and practice exams. Self-assessment helps identify areas where you need further study and reinforces your learning. It also helps you become familiar with the exam format and time constraints, reducing anxiety on the actual test day.

Stay Updated with Industry Trends: The asset management industry is constantly evolving. Stay updated with the latest trends, regulations, and best practices by reading industry publications, following thought leaders, and attending relevant conferences. Being well-informed will not only help you in your certification but also in your professional practice.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively prepare for your Asset Manager certification, ensuring that you not only pass the exam but also enhance your professional

Certification FAQs for Asset Managers

Is getting a Asset Manager certification worth it?

The value of an Asset Manager certification largely depends on your career stage, goals, and the market demands. For beginners, a certification can provide essential knowledge, industry terminology, and a comprehensive understanding of asset management, acting as a gateway into the field. For seasoned professionals, it can serve to update skills, specialize in a particular asset class, or demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

Certifications can also enhance your credibility and make your resume more attractive to recruiters and hiring managers. In the competitive field of asset management, having a certification can be a differentiator, especially when combined with relevant experience and skills.

Do you need a certification to get a job as a Asset Manager?

While a certification is not always a mandatory requirement for securing a job as an Asset Manager, it can certainly be advantageous. It can provide you with an edge in job applications, particularly if you're transitioning from a different career path or lack direct experience in asset management. Certifications can help prove your knowledge and dedication to the field, especially in cases where your work experience might not directly align with the asset management role.

That said, many employers value practical experience, analytical skills, and a track record of success in finance-related roles as much as, if not more than, formal certifications. In many cases, a combination of relevant experience, demonstrable skills, and a certification can be the most effective way to showcase your capabilities as an Asset Manager.

Can Asset Manager certifications help pivoters make the transition into Finance from another career path?

Yes, Asset Manager certifications can be particularly beneficial for professionals looking to transition from a different career path into asset management. These certifications often cover essential concepts, investment strategies, and financial analysis techniques, providing a solid foundation for those new to the field. They can help bridge knowledge gaps and demonstrate to potential employers your commitment to acquiring the necessary skills for the role. Moreover, the networking opportunities that often come with these certification programs can be invaluable in making the career transition smoother.

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Asset Manager Certifications

Getting Started as a Asset Manager

Getting Certified as a Asset Manager

Top Asset Manager Certifications

Best Asset Manager Certifications

Certified Business Relationship Manager (CBRM)

Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional - International (CCEP-I)

Certified Credit and Risk Analyst (CCRA)

Certified Financial Services Security Professional (CFSSP)

Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)

Certified Sales Leadership Professional (CSLP)

Certified Business Operations Professional (CBOP)

Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)

Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Track Certifications for Free with Teal

Benefits of Having a Asset Manager Certification

How to Choose the Best Asset Manager Certification

Preparing for Your Asset Manager Certification

Certification FAQs for Asset Managers

Is getting a Asset Manager certification worth it?

Do you need a certification to get a job as a Asset Manager?

Can Asset Manager certifications help pivoters make the transition into Finance from another career path?

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