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WABC Certified Master Business Coach® (CMBC®)

Type of Designation:
Professional certification: For experienced business coaches*
Introduced November 13, 2008 | Status: Open



Purpose
The WABC CMBC designation aims to:

  • Set international standards for experienced business coaches through a master designation, and clearly identify these standards for buyers of business coaching
  • Provide an independent, robust, transparent assessment process that recognizes appropriate levels of education and continuing professional development for mastery in business coaching
  • Promote high-caliber business coaching services for the benefit of clients
  • Contribute to the definition, development and self-regulation of the business coaching profession

Overview
The Definitive Credential for Experienced Business Coaches™
The WABC Certified Master Business Coach (CMBC) designation is intended for master-level business coaches. It is an international designation that recognizes business coaches who apply their coaching to a broad range of organizations. Business coaches at this level are equipped to operate at all levels of an organization and to deal with the ambiguity of an open coaching agenda. The CMBC is a stand-alone credential and an advanced level of certification.

The CMBC designation can also lead to a fully accredited master's degree in business coaching. The Master of Arts in Professional Development (Business Coaching) program, offered by Middlesex University in the UK, is open to CMBC holders.

Guiding standards
The CMBC designation is the product of rigorous research, development and testing. The program is guided by a definition of business coaching and a set of master-level coaching competencies developed by WABC through extensive study and industry consultation. CMBC is an evidence-based designation that undergoes a comprehensive annual review to ensure that it stays relevant and continues to set the highest international standards for master-level business coaches.

Granting institution
The CMBC designation is awarded by WABC, headquartered in Canada. To keep the process transparent and independent, candidates are evaluated by third-party assessors from Middlesex University and its UK partner, the Professional Development Foundation (PDF).
 

How to obtain the CMBC designation
You are an ideal candidate for the CMBC if you actively practice as a master-level business coach. Specifically, you must meet these requirements:

  • Must successfully complete a WABC Accredited (Master Level) program;
  • Must have at least five years of business coaching experience (external or internal coaching or a combination of both); and
  • Must be a WABC Full Member in good standing (you have five years from the date you graduated from the WABC Accredited (Master Level) program to become a Full Member).

How to list the CMBC designation
Current holders may display applicable titles and WABC logos. Please refer to our Use of Designations Policy, Trademarks and Logo Use Policy and Logos and Guidelines.

How to maintain the CMBC designation
You must renew the CMBC every five years. Renewal is strict but not onerous. You must meet the following requirements:

Can the CMBC designation be revoked?
Yes, under certain circumstances. Examples include not meeting the re-certification requirements or being cited for a legal or ethical violation.

What's your next step?
Register for a program today. Learn more about the programs leading up to the CMBC.
Get in touch. Contact us.

More information

*What is certification?
Certification is a voluntary process by which a nongovernmental body recognizes an individual who has successfully met predetermined qualifications.

What is unique about a professional certification designation?
It is the most rigorous level of credentialing available for individuals. Professional certification programs that follow industry best practices require validation, carry re-certification requirements and are subject to revocation. The CMBC program adheres to these best practices.

What are the benefits of a WABC Accredited® program?
The CMBC designation is only available through WABC Accredited programs. When you take a WABC Accredited program, you’re getting the most credible, reliable and relevant business coach training there is. Learn more about the benefits of a WABC Accredited program.

Other WABC programs
Designations and degrees

WABC reserves all rights in connection with the WABC Certified Master Business Coach (CMBC) designation, including the right to change the requirements of the CMBC designation, and to replace the CMBC designation.