Web endorsement debut for region

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Web endorsement debut for region.

The Middle East Council of Shopping Centres (MECSC) has announced the roll out of its groundbreaking series of online certification programmes for industry professionals.

The three key programmes are targeted at shopping centre managers, marketing directors and leasing managers and aim to drive quality standards across the industry and give candidates a competitive edge.

Following the success of the online testing centres in Dubai, 2008 marks the first year that accreditation is available throughout the Middle East region. 

"There is a growing need to recognize the shopping centre manager, marketing director and leasing manager as professionals within the industry.  It is important for us to encourage industry professionals to secure these certifications which will ensure best practices are available in the Middle East as the region's retail sector continues to grow." said Maher Al Shaer, president, MECSC. 

"The International Council of Shopping Centres has formalised the global practices and now offers certification programmes online.  The accreditation is not a diploma representing completion of course work alone.  Instead it stands for mastery of one's specialisation through knowledge and experience.  It represents competence." he added. 

Certification is awarded to candidates who have achieved pre-determined qualifications of experience and/or education and who pass the written examination, prepared by industry leaders in conjunction with Prometric, the global providers of comprehensive testing and assessment services. 

Industry professionals select the certification that best reflects their roles, from the global Certified Shopping Centre Manager (CSM) to the Certified Marketing Director (CMD) and Certified Leasing Specialist (CLS). 

The next examination dates are October 24 to 28 through testing centres throughout the Middle East. The application deadline for the October examination is September 8. 

"Computer-based testing provides flexibility for full-time employees with busy schedules and immediate results." said Al Shaer. 

Accreditation examinations fees range from US$495 to US$1,390 for the CSM/CMD/CLS certification. 

According to Al Shaer, candidates for the CSM and CMD accreditations who have already completed Levels 1 and 2 of the ICSC School for Professional Development program will have their examination fees waived.  

The testing centres are located in Cairo, Amman, Kuwait, Beirut, Dammam and Dubai.

"Becoming certified is an important step forward for professionals to not only develop their career but also to demonstrate their commitment to our vibrant and thriving industry here in the Middle East." said Al Shaer.

MECSC is a voluntary, non-profit association.  Established in 1994, the council has more than 750 active members. Covering a territory of 18 countries in the region, the MECSC represents the interests of shopping mall owners, developers, marketing managers, leasing managers and specialists, retailers, consultants, property managers, financiers, accountants, government officials and industry suppliers.

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