Top 11 Brand Strategist Certifications

Certifications are important for brand strategists in the job market as they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge and experience in the field. They can help to distinguish candidates from other applicants and provide evidence that an individual has specialist knowledge in the area of brand strategy. Certification can also be used as a way to gain recognition from employers, as it provides proof of qualifications and experience. Additionally, certifications can help to build trust with potential clients, as they demonstrate that a brand strategist is knowledgeable and has been certified by a professional body. Finally, certifications may also open up more opportunities for career advancement, such as promotions or lateral moves within organizations.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Brand Strategists and explains how they can help contribute to a brand strategist's career growth.

What are Brand Strategist Certifications?

Brand strategist certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual's expertise in developing, managing, and evaluating successful brand strategies. It is designed to teach professionals how to create and execute effective branding campaigns that will help organizations achieve their business objectives. Brand strategist certification provides the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to assess a company’s current brand positioning and develop strategies for improving it.

Professionals with brand strategist certification are able to identify target audiences, create messages that resonate with them, design campaigns that will engage them, and measure success. They can also develop marketing plans that align with an organization’s goals and objectives while staying within budget. This certification helps individuals stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and tactics so they can provide their clients with the best possible solutions for their branding needs. Additionally, having this certification demonstrates a commitment to professionalism in the field of brand strategy and provides proof of expertise when working with potential employers or clients.

Pro tip: If you are considering becoming a brand strategist, research certification programs available to ensure that you have the necessary qualifications to practice in the field. Certification programs often provide valuable insights into branding strategies and can help you develop the skills needed to become an effective brand strategist.

Related: What does a Brand Strategist do?

Top 11 Brand Strategist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Brand Strategists today.

1. Certified Brand Strategist (CBS)

A Certified Brand Strategist (CBS) is an individual who has been certified by the Association of Brand Strategy Professionals (ABSP) to demonstrate mastery in the field of brand strategy. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the area of brand strategy and are committed to maintaining that knowledge.

The CBS certification requires applicants to have at least five years of experience in brand strategy and demonstrate their knowledge through a comprehensive exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, case studies, and other types of assessments. The exam is administered online and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to apply for the CBS certification, applicants must first become members of ABSP. Membership fees vary depending on the type of membership chosen. Once approved for membership, applicants may then register for the CBS examination. The cost for taking the exam is $295 USD plus applicable taxes.

Once an applicant passes the examination, they will receive their certificate within two weeks after passing. The certificate is valid for three years from its date of issuance and can be renewed every three years by completing continuing education requirements set forth by ABSP.

2. Certified Professional Brand Strategist (CPBS)

Certified Professional Brand Strategist (CPBS) is a certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop effective brand strategies. The CPBS program consists of three courses: Brand Strategy, Brand Management, and Strategic Brand Planning. Each course focuses on a different aspect of branding and provides an in-depth look at how to create successful strategies for brands.

The CPBS program takes approximately 18 months to complete. During this time, students must complete all three courses and pass the corresponding exams with a score of 70% or higher. After completing the program, students will receive their official certification from the AMA.

To get started on the CPBS program, you must first become an AMA member. Membership costs $99 per year or $249 for a lifetime membership. After becoming an AMA member, you can then register for the CPBS program online or by mail. The cost of the entire CPBS program is $1,495 which includes all three courses and exams as well as access to additional resources such as webinars and study guides.

Once you have completed all three courses and passed their corresponding exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded your Certified Professional Brand Strategist (CPBS) certification from the AMA. This certification will demonstrate that you have acquired the knowledge and skills necessary to develop effective brand strategies for any organization or business.

3. Certified Brand Manager (CBM)

Certified Brand Manager (CBM) is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of brand management. It is designed to validate the skills and expertise of brand professionals who are responsible for managing, developing, and promoting brands.

The CBM certification program takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete. The program consists of four modules: Introduction to Brand Management, Brand Strategy & Planning, Brand Execution & Measurement, and Professional Development & Career Planning. Each module includes lectures, case studies, hands-on exercises, and assessments.

To become certified as a CBM, individuals must successfully complete all four modules and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. The cost of the CBM certification program varies depending on the provider; however, it typically costs between $1,500 - $2,500 USD.

4. Diploma in Brand Strategy and Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing

The Diploma in Brand Strategy and Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing is a comprehensive educational program designed to give students an in-depth understanding of how to create, manage, and measure successful brand strategies. The program covers topics such as brand identity, brand positioning, customer segmentation, market research, communication planning, and digital marketing.

It takes approximately nine months to complete the diploma. The program consists of four modules: Introduction to Brand Strategy and Management; Understanding Customer Segmentation; Creating Effective Communication Strategies; and Digital Marketing for Brands. Each module is assessed through a combination of written assignments and examinations.

To get the diploma you must be a member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). You can join CIM by completing an online application form or by attending one of their open days. Once you are a member you can register for the diploma on their website.

The cost for the diploma varies depending on your membership status with CIM. For non-members it costs £2,895 plus VAT (£3,474 including VAT). For members it costs £2,595 plus VAT (£3,114 including VAT).

5. Certified Digital Brand Strategist (CDBS)

A Certified Digital Brand Strategist (CDBS) is a professional who has been trained and certified in the field of digital brand strategy. This certification is offered by the Digital Branding Institute, which is an international organization that provides training, certification, and resources for professionals in the digital brand space.

The CDBS certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in digital brand strategy and/or marketing, as well as successful completion of the Digital Brand Strategy Certification Program. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Digital Brand Strategy, Advanced Digital Brand Strategy, Social Media Marketing Strategies, and Digital Analytics & Measurement Strategies. Each course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. In addition to completing the courses, applicants must also pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher before they can be certified.

The cost for the CDBS certification program is $1,495 USD. This fee includes access to all four courses and materials needed for completion. Additionally, there are discounts available for groups or organizations looking to certify multiple individuals at once.

Once you have successfully completed the program and passed the exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your CDBS certificate from the Digital Branding Institute within two weeks of passing your exam.

6. Certified Social Media Strategist (CSMS)

A Certified Social Media Strategist (CSMS) is a professional credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of social media strategy. This certification is offered by the Social Media Marketing Institute (SMMi).

The CSMS certification requires applicants to complete an online course and pass an exam. The course covers topics such as content creation, analytics, engagement, and more. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course and pass the exam.

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least 2 years of experience in social media management or marketing, or a related field. They must also submit proof of their experience and provide references from past employers or clients.

The cost for the CSMS certification is $299 USD. This includes access to the online course, practice exams, and the final exam.

7. Certified Content Marketing Strategist (CCMS)

A Certified Content Marketing Strategist (CCMS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in content marketing. The CCMS program was developed by the Content Marketing Institute, an organization that provides education and resources for content marketers.

The CCMS program consists of three levels: Certified Content Marketer, Advanced Certified Content Marketer, and Master Certified Content Marketer. To become certified at any of these levels, applicants must pass an online exam and demonstrate mastery of core content marketing topics such as strategy, planning, execution, measurement, optimization, and more.

It typically takes between four to six months to complete the CCMS program depending on the individual's prior experience with content marketing. However, some individuals may be able to complete it faster or slower depending on their availability and dedication to studying.

To get started with the CCMS program, applicants must first register for an account on the Content Marketing Institute website. Once registered, they can purchase the exam package which includes access to all study materials and practice exams needed to prepare for the final exam. The cost of the exam package varies depending on which level you are applying for but generally ranges from $250-$500 USD.

8. Certified SEO Strategist (CSSS)

A Certified SEO Strategist (CSSS) is an individual who has obtained a certification from the Search Engine Academy in order to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in search engine optimization (SEO). This certification is designed to help professionals build credibility within the SEO industry, as well as to demonstrate their understanding of the latest trends and techniques.

It typically takes about two weeks for individuals to complete the certification program, which consists of online courses, quizzes, and exams. The program covers topics such as keyword research, link building, content optimization, analytics and reporting, and more.

In order to become a CSSS, individuals must first register for the certification program by paying a fee. The cost of the program varies depending on the package chosen but typically ranges between $400-$900 USD. Once registered, individuals can access all of the course materials and begin studying for their exams. Upon completion of all coursework and exams, they will receive their official CSSS certificate.

The CSSS certification is valid for two years after which time it must be renewed in order to remain active. Renewal fees are typically lower than initial registration fees.

9. Certified Advertising Strategist (CAS)

Certified Advertising Strategist (CAS) is a professional certification program designed to help advertising professionals develop their skills in strategic planning and execution of effective advertising campaigns. The certification is offered by the American Advertising Federation (AAF).

The CAS program consists of two parts: an online course and a comprehensive exam. The online course covers topics such as consumer behavior, media planning, creative strategy, and analytics. It takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete the course.

To become certified, applicants must pass the comprehensive exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam is administered online and consists of multiple choice and essay questions. It takes about three hours to complete the exam.

The cost for the CAS program is $595 for AAF members, and $695 for non-members. This fee includes access to the online course materials, practice exams, and the comprehensive exam.

10. Advanced Diploma in Strategic Brand Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing

The Advanced Diploma in Strategic Brand Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing is a professional qualification designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to develop, manage and grow successful brands. The course covers topics such as brand strategy, brand positioning, consumer behaviour, market research, digital marketing, and more.

The Advanced Diploma in Strategic Brand Management takes approximately 12 months to complete. To get the qualification you must complete six modules: Introduction to Strategic Brand Management; Digital Marketing; Consumer Behaviour; Market Research; Brand Positioning & Strategy; and Leadership & Change Management. You will also need to complete a final project that demonstrates your understanding of the principles of strategic brand management.

In order to get the Advanced Diploma in Strategic Brand Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing, you must be a member of CIM or become one before registering for the course. The cost of membership is £135 per year plus an additional fee for each module taken (the total cost varies depending on which modules are taken). The cost of the entire course can range from £1,000 - £2,500 depending on how many modules are taken and whether or not you are already a CIM member.

11. Master Certificate in Strategic Brand Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing

The Master Certificate in Strategic Brand Management from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM) is a professional qualification designed to equip marketing professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to develop and manage a successful brand. It is suitable for those who have already achieved a CIM Diploma or equivalent, and are looking to take their career to the next level.

The Master Certificate in Strategic Brand Management is made up of two modules: 'Brand Strategy' and 'Brand Leadership'. The Brand Strategy module focuses on developing an effective brand strategy, including understanding customer needs, developing a brand identity, creating an effective positioning statement, and managing the brand over time. The Brand Leadership module covers topics such as leading change within an organisation, building relationships with stakeholders, and developing leadership skills.

It typically takes around 12 months to complete the Master Certificate in Strategic Brand Management. To get started you must first register with CIM and then complete both modules within a 12-month period. You will be assessed through written assignments for each module which must be submitted by the end of your 12-month period.

The cost of completing the Master Certificate in Strategic Brand Management depends on your individual circumstances but typically ranges from £2,000 - £3,000. This includes registration fees and course materials as well as any additional costs associated with attending workshops or events related to the qualification.

Do You Really Need a Brand Strategist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a brand strategist certificate depends on your goals and the type of work that you want to do. A brand strategist certificate is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of the field and show employers that you are committed to staying up-to-date with trends and best practices in the industry. It also provides a credential that can be used to back up any claims you make about your skills or experience in the field.

That said, a brand strategist certificate isn’t required for all types of positions. If you are just starting out in the field and are looking for a job as an entry-level assistant or junior account executive, then it’s unlikely that having a certification will give you an edge over other applicants. However, if you have more experience and are looking for higher level roles such as account director, then having the certification could help set you apart from other candidates.

In addition to demonstrating your commitment to staying up-to-date with industry standards, having a brand strategist certificate can also provide tangible benefits such as access to exclusive resources or discounts on professional development opportunities. Ultimately, whether or not you need a brand strategist certificate depends on what type of work you want to pursue and how far along you are in your career path.

Related: Brand Strategist Resume Examples

FAQs About Brand Strategist Certifications

1. What is a Brand Strategist Certification?

Answer: A Brand Strategist Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an understanding of the principles of brand strategy, and can successfully apply them in the workplace.

2. What skills does a Brand Strategist need to have?

Answer: A Brand Strategist needs to have strong analytical and communication skills, as well as knowledge of market research, strategic planning, branding, advertising and digital marketing strategies.

3. How long does it take to earn a Brand Strategist Certification?

Answer: The amount of time required to earn a Brand Strategist Certification varies depending on the program you choose; however, it typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete the requirements.

4. What are the benefits of having a Brand Strategist Certification?

Answer: Having a Brand Strategist Certification demonstrates your expertise in developing successful brand strategies and can help you stand out from other job applicants in the field. It may also open up more career opportunities and provide access to higher-level positions within the industry.

5. Is there an exam required for a Brand Strategist Certification?

Answer: Yes, most programs require that you pass an exam in order to earn your certification. The exam will test your knowledge of brand strategy concepts and will assess how well you can apply them in practice.