Membership of the Institute of Sport Management

The Institute of Sport Management fosters higher sport management standards through its five tiered approach to membership. This includes three levels of certification and the designation of a post-nominal as follows:

1. ISM Members
2. ISM Pathways Program – designed for Full-time and/or Part-time students
3. Associate, Institute of Sport Management (A.I.S.M.)
4. Certified Practising Sport Manager (C.P.S.M.)
5. Fellow, Institute of Sport Management (F.I.S.M.)

An internationally recognised standard

The Institute of Sport Management certification has been developed as an international standard for Sport Managers. Once an ISM certification is attained the member’s competencies and experience levels will be recognised in the sport industry worldwide. In fact through the Institute of Sport Management, members are part of a global network of Sport Managers.

Who can apply for membership of the Institute of Sport Management?

The employment opportunities within the sport and leisure industry are as numerous as they are varied. Sport Management roles in sporting organisations include administration, marketing, accounts, management, public relations, coaching, development, facilities, events – the list goes on. The Institute of Sport Management recognises those people who, working in the sport industry, can easily identify him or herself as a sport manager.

However, the Institute of Sport Management is aware of the myriad of service organisations and specialists working in and around the sports industry. It understands that it is more challenging for instance for a specialist sports lawyer, a sports journalist, a sports accreditation specialist, a sports IT provider or a venue manager to identify themselves as Sport Managers.

‘Relevant, associated industry’

The Institute of Sport Management, therefore, also recognises a ‘relevant, associated industry’ in both its membership criteria and Continuing Professional Development policies. In so doing we are acknowledging the unique diversity of people working and contributing to the sector under the ‘sport management’ banner.

At the time of making an Application for membership to the Institute of Sport Management, applicants are asked to confirm their employment details. If an applicant believes that their employment is in a ‘relevant, associated industry’ they should submit an application for review by the Institute of Sport Management. If in doubt, email the Institute of Sport Management prior to application on ism@ismhome.com and one of our Membership Staff will be in contact.