Experts in Operations: How to Identify a Qualified Community Association Manager
Community associations have choices in how their association is managed. Board members should educate themselves about the different types of management and think about what is best for the community.
Some communities are self-managed, which means board members or committees manage the daily tasks of the association. Hiring a professional community association manager who oversees daily operations allows the board to focus on policy and strategic planning. Another component to consider is hiring a management company that offers a full suite of services. Some management companies assign a portfolio manager to a community. Portfolio managers administer more than one community and may not be on site daily.
Whether associations employ a community management company or a professional community association manager to direct association operations, it’s essential to find someone qualified to do the job. A professional association manager will help the board preserve assets, maintain property values, establish continuity, and help with other operational and financial matters.
The board sets policy and establishes a direction for the association, and the manager implements those policies.
SELECTING A QUALIFIED MANAGER
The association’s size, amenities, facilities, and budget determine the type of management your association needs. Whether you select an on-site manager or work with a management company, it’s essential that you select a qualified community association management professional. You can identify qualified managers by their credentials and designations.
Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA®)
These managers have demonstrated fundamental knowledge in managing common interest developments. They must pass an exam, comply with the Community Association Managers International Certification Board’s CMCA Standards of Professional Conduct, and renew their certification every two years through continuing education.
Association Management Specialist (AMS®)
These managers have earned the CMCA certification, passed at least two CAI education courses, and managed the finances, administration, and facilities of an association for at least two years. They adhere to professional ethical standards and renew their AMS designation every three years through continuing education.
Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM®)
These managers have met advanced educational requirements in law, communications, operations, and asset protection and have at least five years’ experience managing community associations. They also have earned the CMCA certification and AMS designation, complete with a passing score a comprehensive review of a selected community, adhere to professional ethical standards, and renew their PCAM designation every three years through continuing education.
Large-Scale Manager (LSM®)
These managers hold the PCAM designation and have at least 10 years’ experience in managing community associations. They have met advanced educational requirements, adhere to professional ethical standards, and must re-designate every three years through continuing education.
Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC®)
To earn this accreditation, a management company must adhere to CAI’s Professional Manager Code of Ethics, have managed associations for at least three years, have a PCAM as the company’s senior manager, show that at least 50% of its managers hold a PCAM or AMS designation or CMCA certification, provide continuing education for its management staff, and complete other requirements.
>>Managers who have earned the CAI designations above are listed in the Directory of Credentialed Professionals. Managers who have earned the CMCA credential are listed in CAMICB’s directory.
>>International Community Association Managers Day is June 13. Join @CAIsocial as we celebrate #ICAMDay by promoting the day and celebrating managers’ impact on communities.
>>Learn more about hiring community association managers in CAI’s Selecting Management book.
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Daniel Brannigan is CAI's senior director of publishing.