How to become a Chartered Marketer

If you're in marketing, you've probably come across the term "Chartered Marketer"; maybe on someone's LinkedIn, in a webinar, or even at an industry event. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly, is it something you should aspire to?

Chartered Marketer status is universally recognised as a mark of professional excellence. It shows that you're serious about your development, that you keep your skills sharp, and that you're working to the very highest standards in marketing.

This guide is here to demystify the process; what it is, who it's for, and how to get there, and to help you decide whether it's the right next step in your personal journey.

What is a Chartered Marketer?

Chartered Marketer status is the ultimate mark of a professionally certified marketer. It shows that you're not just experienced but also committed to the highest standards, competent across all areas of marketing, and actively invested in your own professional development.

It's more than a title. Becoming chartered is a way of showing the people you work with, whether that's clients, colleagues, or employers, that you meet a recognised standard and are serious about what you do.

What are the key benefits of becoming a Chartered Marketer?

Every marketer's journey is different, but here are some reasons why you might work towards becoming Chartered:

• Career development: It makes your CV stand out and can help you move into more senior roles.
• Continued learning: It helps you stay up to date with the latest trends, tools, and thinking. This can be achieved through CIM's courses, webinars, workshops, events and mentorship programs.
• Industry-recognised status: It's a well-established benchmark of credibility in marketing, and you'll be able to have "Chartered Marketer" or "CMktr" after your name.
• Networking opportunities: You'll have the chance to connect, share ideas, and learn from others across the industry through CIM's extensive network of marketing professionals.
• Confidence: It's a valuable reminder to yourself and others that you're serious about what you do. 

You can find out more about the benefits in our Value of Chartership Report. 

How do you become a Chartered Marketer?

Step 1: Become a graded CIM member
You'll need to hold a graded membership (ACIM, MCIM, or FCIM) before starting, and your level will depend on your experience and qualifications. 

Step 2: Complete two years of CPD
You'll need to complete two consecutive years of Continual Professional Development (CPD), which includes 35 CPD credits (for Associates) or four reflective statements (for Members and Fellows) each year. A wide range of activities can be claimed, like:

• Attending events or webinars
• Taking courses/training sessions
• Reading industry articles or journals
• Learning through your day-to-day role

Step 3: Pass the Chartered Marketer assessment
Once you've logged your two years of CPD, the next step is an online assessment. It's made up of multiple-choice questions covering key areas of marketing — nothing too daunting, but it's designed to check you're applying your knowledge in the right way.

There's also a useful skills analysis tool on the CIM Member Portal. It's worth trying before the assessment as it helps you see where you're strongest and where you may want to brush up.

And if you've already completed a CIM Level 7 qualification, you’ll be exempt from the Chartered Marketer Assessment. 

Step 4: Stay Chartered
Once you've passed the assessment, you'll officially be a Chartered Marketer and can use the post-nominal CMktr after your name. You'll also receive a certificate, a digital badge, access to the Chartered logo, and be listed in the official CIM Chartered Marketer Directory.

To maintain your status, you must continue your CPD and membership each year.

Things to consider

There are plenty of benefits to becoming a Chartered Marketer, but like anything worthwhile, there are some practical things to keep in mind:

• Time: Keeping your CPD up to date does require consistency, but it's manageable, and CIM's tools make it easy to track. Plus, a lot of what you're already doing probably counts.
• Cost: There is a financial commitment, including membership and CPD activities. That said, many employers see the value of Chartered status and are happy to support or cover these costs as part of your development. And, it’s perfectly possible to meet the CPD requirements each year with content included with your membership.
• Perceived value: Chartered status is widely respected in marketing, but it’s worth thinking about how it aligns with your career goals and what you hope to achieve from it.

A final note

Becoming a Chartered Marketer isn't just about the letters after your name — it's about taking ownership of your professional development and setting a clear standard for the way you work.

Not every marketer takes this step, but for those who do, it often becomes a significant milestone. It gives your learning more structure, recognises the effort you're putting in, and helps you stay focused in an industry that's constantly changing.

Whether you're getting started or already leading teams, Chartered status is well worth thinking about, and most definitely something to be proud of!

Ready to take the next step? Discover how you can reach your career goals and begin your journey towards Chartered Marketer status today to show the world you’re committed to the marketing profession.