The ultimate guide to achieving the project management Chartered Standard

So, you’re ready to take the next step in your career as a project manager? Becoming a Chartered Project Professional is the ultimate benchmark in project, programme and portfolio management. It showcases your expertise, experience and competence through an assessment like no other qualification or certification. Holding Chartered status sets you apart as a credible and highly skilled project professional – you’re trusted by employers, clients, stakeholders and colleagues alike. But how do you actually become a Chartered Project Professional?  

Getting started with the Chartered standard 

The Chartered Project Professional (ChPP) standard from APM is the highest level of recognition available in project management globally. In fact, it’s the only Chartered standard in project management, making it an impressive achievement. But who can apply for it?  

ChPP is designed for those of us who can demonstrate: 

• Proven experience in delivering projects and programmes 
• Comprehensive, in-depth and up-to-date knowledge of project management methods and best practices 
• Active involvement in the profession  
• A commitment to continued professional development 

The two-stage application and assessment process for ChPP 

Becoming a Chartered Project Professional is a rigorous but rewarding process that ensures you meet the gold standard of competence and professionalism in project management. So naturally, the application and assessment to determine if you meet the ChPP standard, are designed to validate specific areas: 

• Technical knowledge. You’ll need to demonstrate your technical knowledge and understanding on how to deliver projects, programmes and portfolios. You should also be able to discuss different methodologies, best practices and approaches in project delivery. 
• Professional practice. You should be able to share evidence that you’ve successfully applied project management knowledge in the real world because the assessors look for examples of this. 
• Continuous professional development (CPD) statements. You’ll need to share evidence of CPD you’ve completed over the past 12 months to show that you stay up to date with project management developments. 
• Proposers. Your proposers are like references, and you’ll need two who can verify and support your experience and competence. 
• Ethics and professionalism. You’ll also need to confirm and demonstrate your commitment to upholding APM’s professional and ethical standards. 

Take time to explore the key ChPP assessment tool and support services before making your application. Then you can get ready for the two-stage process: 

Stage one: the written submission 

This is your opportunity to demonstrate your project management competence. You need to share evidence of your experience, knowledge and professional development. There are a few key components of the written submission that you need to include, but this depends on the pathway you take. 

Stage two: the interview 

The interview stage is a structured assessment where you’ll discuss your written submission with experienced ChPP assessors. They’ll use this time to explore your professional practice, but the length and focus on the interview depends on the pathway you’ve applied through.  

What are the pathways to chartered? 

The application for ChPP has four routes, or pathways, and the one you choose depends on your existing qualifications and experience. 

1. Pathway one: for those of you who meet the eligibility criteria, but don’t hold a recognised assessment.  
2. Pathway two: for professionals with a recognised assessment that covers technical knowledge but not professional practice. 
3. Pathway three: if you have a recognised assessment of professional practice but need to demonstrate technical knowledge then this is for you. 
4. Pathway four: for the ones who have a recognised assessment that covers both technical knowledge and professional practice. 

Why should you become Chartered? 

Now that you’re familiar with the application process, you might be wondering why you should apply to be a ChPP. Pursuing the gold standard in project management: 

• Positions you as a trusted leader and expert: Becoming Chartered gives you credibility in project, programme and portfolio management. Many senior roles now prefer ChPP status, so it gives you a competitive advantage when applying for promotions or new opportunities. It can lead to leadership roles, stronger professional reputation, and recognition as a thought leader in project management. You’ll gain access to higher earning potential, with increased salary prospects as well as more job opportunities across various industries.  

• Provides global recognition and career mobility: Chartered status is recognised as the highest standard in project management, worldwide. It assures your colleagues, organisation and future employers, that you’ve met the highest possible professional standard. There’s a greater demand for project management expertise worldwide so if you want to manage projects and programmes on an international scale, or even move abroad, ChPP gives you the advantage; it enhances your global mobility.  

• Establishes professional growth and networking opportunities: As a Chartered Project Professional, you’ll also be part of a prestigious network of industry leaders, professionals and experts. And with the trust and assurance you bring by holding Chartered status, you’ll have more opportunities for mentorship and thought leadership discussions. Just by achieving the Chartered standard, you elevate project management as a valuable professional practice.  

Starting your ChPP journey 

Achieving the Chartered Project Professional status is a career-changing milestone that sets you apart in a competitive market and positions you as an outstanding leader. It signals to clients, peers and employers that you have an exceptional level of competence and integrity in project, programme and portfolio management. And while the path to Chartered status requires dedication, the rewards, like career growth, networking, credibility and global recognition, make it more than worth the effort.  

So, if you’re a project professional thinking about advancing your career, gaining industry recognition, and unlocking new opportunities, then pursuing Chartered status will be a powerful move. Download the ChPP self-assessment tool and begin your journey towards ChPP today. 

 

You may also be interested in:

• The Chartered Standard
• Get support from your fellow project professionals
• What is project management?