In the late 1960s and early 1970s, amidst a period of rapid globalization and burgeoning interest in professional management practices, a group of visionary management consultants from various corners of the globe recognized the need for a standardized framework for assessing and accrediting management expertise. This led to the establishment of the Institute of Management Specialists (IMS) in the United Kingdom in 1971.
Initially, IMS focused on providing professional qualifications and certifications to individuals seeking to demonstrate their proficiency in management practices. Over the years, IMS gained recognition and credibility as a leading authority in the field, attracting members and candidates from diverse backgrounds and industries.
As the demand for management expertise continued to grow globally, IMS recognized the need to expand its reach beyond the borders of the United Kingdom. In 1996, the institute established a presence in Delaware, USA, to better serve its growing international community of management professionals.
However, to further solidify its commitment to serving the needs of its American members and candidates, IMS sought full incorporation status in the United States. After careful consideration, the institute chose Kentucky as its new home base due to its favorable regulatory environment and strategic location.
Incorporating in Kentucky not only provided IMS with a more robust legal framework but also positioned the institute to better engage with management professionals and organizations across the United States. This move marked a significant milestone in IMS’s journey towards becoming a truly global institution dedicated to advancing excellence in management practices.
In recognition of its expanded scope and international presence, IMS rebranded itself as the Chartered Institute of Management Specialists (CIMS) in 1998. This name change reflected the institute’s commitment to setting the standard for excellence in management specialization and its aspiration to charter qualified management professionals worldwide.
Since then, CIMS has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of management practices, offering a comprehensive range of qualifications, certifications, and professional development programs tailored to the needs of its diverse membership base. Today, CIMS stands as a respected authority in the field of management, empowering professionals around the world to achieve their full potential and drive organizational success.