Frequently Asked Questions

The ICLPSM is currently the only professional board in the loss control and private security sector which is chartered through an Act of Parliament in Zimbabwe. It is mandated to advance loss control and private security management as a profession and protect its integrity. The Institute also facilitates professional training through a Chartered Internship Training programme, regulates member conduct through standards and a code of conduct, and administers a disciplinary mechanism to sanction ethical breaches.

Legally, the ICLPSM is the only board in the loss control and private security management sector that enjoys the same professional status as the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Zimbabwe (ICAZ), the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers (ZIE), the Zimbabwe Law Society (ZLS), and the health services profession established under the Health Professions Act.

A chartered professional board derives its legitimacy from a legal instrument or an Act of Parliament (the charter) that establishes it. For the avoidance of doubt, the ICLPSM is currently the only professional board in this sector in Zimbabwe that derives its legitimacy from the Institute of Chartered Loss Control and Private Security Management Act Chapter 27:23.

Members are recognized by law as chartered experts, which legally qualifies them to appear in court proceedings or situations requiring expert evidence or testimony. They have a legal cause to negotiate professional salary scales and perks comparable to peers in other chartered professions. Membership also offers respect from other professionals, access to Continuing Professional Development, a wide consultative network, and increased professional visibility leading to enhanced employability. Additionally, practitioners can establish their own loss control or security management firms as professionals at law.

ICLPSM membership offers numerous benefits including professional recognition through post-nominal letters, access to exclusive CPD programs, networking opportunities with industry leaders, discounted certification fees, access to research publications and industry reports, job board access, and participation in professional committees and special interest groups. Members also receive regular newsletters, invitations to exclusive events, and professional indemnity insurance options.

Membership grades depend on your qualifications and experience. Student membership requires enrollment in a relevant program. Associate membership (AICLPSM) requires industry experience or relevant qualifications. Full membership (MICLPSM) requires significant professional experience (typically 5+ years) and recognized qualifications. Fellow status (FICLPSM) is reserved for distinguished professionals with exceptional contributions to the field. We also offer organizational membership for companies committed to professional standards.

Membership fees vary by grade: Student Membership - $25/year, Associate Membership (AICLPSM) - $150/year, Full Membership (MICLPSM) - $300/year, Fellowship (FICLPSM) - $400/year. We offer flexible payment plans and discounts for multi-year renewals. Contact our membership team for detailed pricing and payment options.

Yes! All members in good standing can use appropriate post-nominal letters: AICLPSM (Associate), MICLPSM (Member), FICLPSM (Fellow). Additionally, certified professionals can use designation letters such as CSM (Chartered Security Manager), CLCP (Chartered Loss Control Professional), and CRM (Chartered Risk Manager). These professional designations are recognized across Africa and internationally.

We offer comprehensive certifications across multiple specializations: Chartered Security Manager (CSM), Chartered Loss Control Professional (CLCP), Chartered Risk Manager (CRM), Certified Security Auditor (CSA), Occupational Health & Safety Professional (OHSP), and Disaster & Emergency Management Specialist (DEMS). Each certification has specific entry requirements, assessment pathways, and CPD obligations. All certifications are internationally recognized and aligned with global best practices.

Certification timelines vary by program and study mode. Full-time study programs typically take 6-12 months, part-time programs 12-24 months. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments can be completed in 3-6 months for experienced professionals. We offer flexible learning pathways including online, blended, and face-to-face options to accommodate working professionals. Assessment includes coursework, examinations, and practical evaluations.

Yes! ICLPSM qualifications are recognized across Africa and internationally. We maintain partnerships with professional bodies in the UK, South Africa, Kenya, and other countries. Our qualifications align with international frameworks including ISO standards and SADC professional qualifications frameworks. Many of our members work across multiple countries and our certifications are accepted by multinational employers and government agencies.

Entry requirements vary by certification level. Generally, you need a minimum of 5 O' Levels including Math and English. For advanced certifications, relevant diplomas or degrees plus professional experience are required. We offer alternative pathways through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for experienced professionals without formal qualifications. Each program page details specific requirements, or contact our admissions team for personalized guidance.

CPD activities include formal training courses, workshops and seminars, webinars and online learning, professional conferences, research and publication, mentoring others, committee participation, professional reading, and work-based learning projects. We require 35 CPD hours annually for most membership grades. Activities are categorized as formal learning (with assessment), informal learning (self-directed), and professional practice. Members log CPD activities through our online portal.

Associate and Full Members must complete 35 CPD hours per year, Fellows require 40 hours annually, Student members are encouraged but not required to log CPD. At least 20 hours should be formal learning activities. CPD compliance is monitored annually and non-compliance may affect membership status. We offer numerous ICLPSM-approved CPD activities throughout the year, both online and in-person.

Yes! We offer extensive online CPD through our learning platform including live webinars, on-demand courses, virtual workshops, and e-learning modules. Topics cover emerging trends, technical skills, leadership development, and regulatory updates. Members receive significant discounts on all CPD programs. Our online platform is accessible 24/7, allowing flexible learning around work commitments. Certificates are issued upon completion.

Apply online through our website by completing the membership application form, uploading required documents (ID, qualifications, CV/, professional references), and paying the application processing fee ($50). Applications are reviewed within 14 working days. You'll receive email confirmation and, if approved, your membership certificate and welcome pack. Alternatively, download the application form and submit via email or post.

Required documents include: certified copies of academic qualifications, national ID or passport, recent passport-size photograph, detailed CV highlighting relevant experience, two professional references (on letterhead), proof of current employment (if applicable), and completed application form with signature. For certifications, additional documentation such as project portfolios or evidence of competency may be required. All documents can be uploaded digitally.

Standard applications are processed within 14-21 working days. Complex applications requiring assessment or additional verification may take 4-6 weeks. You can track your application status through our online portal. We'll contact you if additional information is needed. Urgent processing is available for an additional fee (2-5 working days). Successful applicants receive membership confirmation via email and post.

We accept multiple payment methods: bank transfer (USD/ZWL), mobile money (EcoCash, OneMoney), credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and online payment platforms (PayPal, Paywise). For international payments, we accept bank transfers and PayPal. Payment plans are available for certification fees and annual renewals. Contact our finance team for detailed banking information and payment arrangements.

Yes! We offer flexible payment plans for certification programs and annual membership fees. Options include monthly, quarterly, and semi-annual installments. A small administrative fee applies to installment plans. Payment agreements must be arranged before program commencement. All fees must be settled before final examinations or certificate issuance. Contact our finance department to discuss customized payment arrangements.

Application fees are non-refundable. For course fees, 80% refund if withdrawn before course start, 50% refund within first 2 weeks, and no refund after 2 weeks. Medical or compassionate circumstances considered on case-by-case basis with documentation. Annual membership fees are non-refundable but may be transferred to the following year in exceptional circumstances. Refunds are processed within 30 working days to the original payment method.

A seasoned security executive with over twenty-nine (29) years of distinguished service spanning national law enforcement and the central banking sector. Throughout his tenures with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, he has established a reputation for excellence in loss control, asset protection, and strategic risk management. He possesses a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, a Master's in Information Systems (NUST) and a Master's in Cyber Security (UZ).