Is a CIPS Qualification Necessary for a Career in Procurement?

As specialist procurement recruiters, we’re often asked a version of the same question: do I really need CIPS to progress in procurement?

The honest answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

CIPS can be a powerful career accelerator, but its value depends on where you are in your career, the type of roles you’re targeting, and how you combine formal learning with real-world delivery.

Why CIPS can make a difference

It remains the industry benchmark
CIPS is widely regarded as the professional standard for procurement and supply chain specialists. From entry-level certificates through to senior professional diplomas, it provides structured learning across purchasing, supply management, ethics, contract law and best-practice supply chain management.

From a hiring perspective, it offers reassurance. It signals a shared professional framework and a consistent level of technical understanding.

It strengthens early-career credibility
For candidates early in their procurement journey, or those stepping up into management roles, CIPS can carry real weight. Employers often expect to see some form of formal procurement training on a CV, particularly where hands-on experience is still developing.

In these cases, CIPS demonstrates commitment to the profession and provides confidence that core principles are understood.

It can influence salary and progression
UK data consistently shows that procurement professionals with MCIPS status earn significantly more than non-MCIPS peers, with reported salary uplifts often in the region of 50–60%.

Beyond pay, many organisations specify CIPS when hiring for senior or leadership roles. While it may not be the sole deciding factor, it can open doors that remain closed without it.

It supports a more strategic procurement role
Modern procurement extends well beyond buying and ordering. Employers increasingly expect professionals to engage with sustainability, risk management, ethical sourcing and long-term supplier relationships.

CIPS covers these areas in depth, helping procurement professionals move from transactional activity into a more commercially influential, strategic position within the business.

When CIPS may not be essential

Experience still carries significant weight
For candidates with a strong track record, deep category expertise or relevant academic qualifications, employers may prioritise delivery over formal certification. This is particularly true in senior appointments, where commercial judgement and stakeholder influence are critical.

Qualifications do not replace outcomes
CIPS alone does not guarantee success. Hiring managers still want evidence of results: cost savings delivered, supplier relationships strengthened, risks mitigated and value added. Theory must be backed by tangible impact.

The commitment should be realistic
Studying for CIPS requires time and focus. For professionals already under pressure, it’s important to weigh the benefits against workload, personal commitments and broader development goals.

Who tends to benefit most from CIPS

• Early- and mid-career professionals seeking a solid grounding in procurement principles, ethics, contract law and supply management

• Individuals transitioning into procurement from another discipline, where a recognised, structured route is valuable

• Ambitious professionals targeting senior or strategic roles where formal recognition complements experience

• Those working across sectors or internationally, where CIPS’ global recognition adds portability and credibility

A balanced view

CIPS is not mandatory for a successful career in procurement. Many outstanding professionals progress without it.

However, when combined with real-world results, commercial awareness and strong stakeholder skills, it remains a powerful differentiator. For those starting out, it builds confidence and credibility. For experienced practitioners, it can sharpen strategic capability and reinforce professional standing.

From a recruiter’s perspective, the strongest procurement careers are rarely built on qualifications alone, but CIPS continues to be one of the most effective investments for those looking to accelerate progression and maximise long-term opportunity.

For a more details discussion about your career in Procurement contact:
Beth Alcock for East-Midlands
Emma Maloney for Northamptonshire and Home Counties
Dylan Chattha for West-Midlands