Certified Management Consultant (CMC)

The CMC certificate is the only worldwide recognised seal of approval for business consultants. Consultant with this certification are recognised as having particularly high ethical standards. Their behaviour is both objective and integral. In Switzerland this title is awarded by the ASCO (Association of Management Consultants Switzerland).

Certification requires fulfilment of the following criteria:

• At least 5 years as a professional business consultant (at least 1000 hours a year as an active business consultant per year). Can partially be substituted by several years’ management experience.
• A degree from a university or technical college, or additional experience as a business consultant or manager.

• Proof of a high professional standard and up to date knowledge of at least one typical consulting area taking into account the wider business context.
• Compliance with the mandatory code of conduct for a certified CMC business consultant.

The ICMCI’s (International Council of Management Consulting Institutes) code of conduct consists of the following nine fundamental rules which must be followed:

1. Confidentiality
   A CMC treats client information confidentially and does not use it for his own advantage or reveal it to third parties. Engage in projects only that are in the best interests of the client and avoiding the encouragement of unrealistic client expectations.
2. Unrealistic Expectations
   A CMC only engages in projects that are in the best interests of the client and avoiding the encouragement of unrealistic client expectations.
3. Commission /Financial Interests
   A CMC does not accept commission, remuneration or any other benefit from third parties in relation to client recommendations without informing them and obtaining their permission. Any financial interests in goods or services must also be openly declared.
4. Assignments
   A CMC only accepts work which they are competent and qualified to perform.
5. Incompatible Assignments
   A CMC avoids potential conflicts of interest which out declaring them to all parties in advance.

6. Negotiation with clients
   A CMC ensures that before accepting a mandate there is mutual agreement on objectives, project scope, the work schedule and remuneration and that any personal, financial or other interests that could have a bearing on the work are openly declared.
7. Recruiting
   Without client permission, a CNC will not poach client staff.
8. Professional Behaviour
   Act with courtesy and respect to clients, employees and professional colleagues.
9. Other consultants
   A CMC ensures that other consultants who work for them understand and comply with the code of conduct.