About the CBPM™ designation
The Chartered Bids and Proposal Manager (CBPM™) is a practitioner-level credential from the Chartered Institute of Management Specialists (CIMS) recognising individuals who demonstrate outstanding capability, expertise and leadership in managing the bids and proposals process within organisations. It marks a commitment to excellence in bid management, proposal development and winning strategy.
Holders of the designation are recognised as bid and proposal practitioners who can shape winning strategy, lead cross-functional proposal teams and deliver compelling, compliant submissions, all while upholding the professional and ethical standards the discipline demands.
Entry requirements
To be considered for the CBPM™ designation, applicants are generally expected to meet the following criteria:
Academic background
A bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in business administration, marketing, communication, or a related field; advanced degrees or certifications in proposal management are often preferred.
Professional experience
A demonstrated track record in bids and proposal management, typically in the region of 5 to 10 years or more, with a history of managing and winning bids.
Professional competence
A solid grasp of bids and proposal management principles, processes, best practice and tools, alongside an ongoing commitment to professional development.
Ethical standards
Adherence to the ethical principles and professional codes of conduct set by relevant organisations and industry bodies, including integrity and fairness throughout the bids and proposals process.
Mode of assessment
Candidates are evaluated through a combination of methods designed to confirm their readiness for the designation, including:
- Review of academic qualifications, professional certifications and continuing education relevant to bids and proposal management.
- Documentation of professional experience, including bids managed, proposals developed and wins achieved.
- Assessment of technical knowledge in strategy development, content creation and submission processes.
- Interviews or oral examinations exploring the candidate's grasp of bids and proposal management concepts, problem-solving ability and leadership skill.
Standards & competencies
The CBPM™ designation is awarded to professionals who can demonstrate consistent, evidenced competency in the following areas:
Features & benefits
Professional recognition
The designation marks holders out as highly skilled, experienced bids and proposal management professionals, strengthening their credibility and standing within their organisations and industries.
Career advancement
Chartered Bids and Proposal Managers are well placed for leadership roles across sales, business development, marketing and proposal consulting firms, with room for progression and greater responsibility.
Win rates & revenue growth
Certified professionals help improve win rates and drive revenue growth by applying effective bid and proposal management strategies, optimising processes and leading high-performing teams.
Continued professional development
Holders of the designation show an ongoing commitment to learning, keeping pace with emerging bids and proposal management trends, technologies and best practice.