Why qualify as a Key Account Manager?
Currently, the scope and level of this position is poorly recognised by businesses, so although you may have been working as a key account manager for years, the level and importance of your expertise is often not acknowledged. AKAM recognises that the position of key account manager requires a broad range of competencies, many of them at a high level. The existence of a professional qualification in KAM helps to demonstrate to companies that this is an established discipline to be ranked alongside other professional roles. The range of knowledge and competencies that make up these qualifications also helps to demonstrate the value of these positions, and of those who hold them.
If you can demonstrate to your employer that you have a professional qualification in KAM, you will have backing for the competencies you claim. That could support your career with your company and help to achieve a suitable job classification for the role, or will put you in an advantageous position relative to other candidates for a position.
Continuing professional development (CPD) is becoming increasingly important. It may be a long time since you undertook any extended formal training, but these qualifications are worth your investment of time because they are entirely relevant to your career and enable you to demonstrate that you are up-to-date and multi-skilled.
Available qualifications
Diploma in Key Account Management (by experience):
- For key account managers in post (rather than those who are promoting and managing KAM programs) gained by presenting a portfolio of evidence of competencies to AKAM.
Diploma in Key Account Management (by study):
- For students aspiring to become Key account managers studying relevant aspects of business and key account management on a course certified by AKAM at a recognised college.
Advanced Diploma in Key Account Management:
- Applicants must have some experience, but competencies may be acquired by a mix of study and learning through experience. Detailed specification due 2018.