Certified Professional in Catering and Events (CPCE)
NACE CPCE is the only certification focused on the catering and events business.
Recognizing expertise across the following seven core competencies:
- Accounting
- Beverage Management
- Catering Services & Operations
- Contracts & Risk Management
- Event Design & Execution
- Human Resources & Administration
- Sales & Marketing
Valuable for –
Catering managers and directors
Event planners and coordinators
Hospitality professionals
Venue managers and operators
Sales and marketing professionals in events
Industry leaders seeking formal recognition of their expertise
Broaden Your Expertise. Gain Industry Recognition.
Enhance Your Credibility with Clients, Venues, and Peers
Build trust and position yourself as a knowledgeable professional across the industry.
Gain a Competitive Market Advantage
Stand out in a competitive industry with a credential that showcases your skills.
Grow Your Career and Your Business
The CPCE credential can accelerate your career growth and enhance your organization’s reputation.
Earning Your CPCE
It’s a straightforward journey to earn and maintain CPCE certification.
Experience Requirements
- General Applicants: Minimum 3 years of full-time catering and events experience (within the last 5 years).
- Recent graduates: Minimum 2 years of catering and events experience.
Continuing Education Hours
- 30 CE hours required (across seven core competencies).
- CE credits must be applied within five years of completion.
Final Exam
- Multiple choice: 175 questions covering seven core competencies.
- Test In-Person: during NACE Evolve and Experience conferences
- Test online: schedule your exam throughout the year.
- Get help: Prepare for the Exam
Fast Track & Study Groups
- In-Person: during NACE Evolve and Experience conferences
- Online: scheduled virtual sessions and meetups with the experts.
Join a growing community of over 330+ CPCEs leading the catering and events industry forward.
CPCE in 60 seconds
