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Founded 1915

About the Institute

One of the oldest and most respected professional bodies in the United Kingdom, dedicated to advancing administrative and business management excellence for over a century.

Our Story

A Century of Professional Excellence

The Institute of Administrative Management (IAM) was founded in 1915 when a group of executives from the private and public sectors met at the London School of Economics with the intention of forming a self-development group aiming to share best practices in administrative management.

From our founding during the industrial era to our current position as a global leader in professional education, the IAM has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of the profession while maintaining our unwavering commitment to excellence.

Today, we serve individuals and corporates across 50+ countries, offering over 1,000 qualifications and CPD courses along with 80+ certification programmes to deliver world-class professional development and continuing education.

110+ Years of Heritage
50+ Qualifications
1000+ Qualifications & CPD Courses
145+ Certification Programmes
Our Purpose

Mission & Vision

Guiding principles that drive everything we do

Our Vision

To be the premier global professional body for administrative and business management, recognised worldwide for advancing the profession and empowering individuals to achieve their full potential in every industry and sector.

Our Mission

To provide exceptional professional development opportunities, advocate for the administrative management profession, support career advancement through recognised qualifications, and promote continuous learning for all professionals globally.

Our Values

What We Stand For

The core principles that guide our actions and define our culture

Excellence

We maintain the highest standards in everything we do, from our qualifications to our member services and professional support.

Integrity

We act with honesty and transparency in all our dealings, building trust with our members, partners, and stakeholders worldwide.

Innovation

We embrace change and continuously evolve our offerings to meet the needs of modern professionals in a rapidly changing world.

Inclusivity

We welcome professionals from all backgrounds and actively support diversity and inclusion within our global community.

Impact

We measure our success by the positive difference we make in our members' careers and the organisations they serve.

Learning

We champion lifelong learning and professional development, supporting members at every stage of their career journey.

What We Do

Supporting Professional Excellence

Comprehensive services to advance your career and the profession

01

Professional Qualifications

We offer Ofqual-regulated qualifications from RQF Levels 2-8, providing a clear pathway for career progression in administrative and business management.

02

Continuing Professional Development

Through IAM Academy, we provide CPD courses, resources, and learning opportunities to support ongoing professional growth.

03

Training Centre Network

We focus on accrediting courses delivered by training centres worldwide, ensuring consistent quality and standards in the delivery of our programmes.

04

Professional Membership

Our membership grades recognise achievement and provide access to exclusive benefits, networking opportunities, and professional recognition.

05

Corporate Services

We work with organisations to develop their administrative workforce through tailored training solutions and programme certification.

06

Professional Advocacy

We champion the administrative profession, raising its profile and advocating for the recognition of administrative professionals' vital contributions.

Recognition

Accreditation & Registration

IAM's qualifications and professional standards are recognised by leading regulatory and awarding bodies

Qualifi Accredited

IAM is accredited by Qualifi, a leading UK awarding organisation recognised by Ofqual. This accreditation ensures our qualifications meet the highest standards of quality and rigour, and are aligned with the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF).

Awarding Organisation Partner

UK Registered Learning Provider

IAM is registered on the UK Register of Learning Providers (UKRLP), the definitive register of all education and training providers in the United Kingdom.

UKPRN: 10064134
Our Journey

Key Milestones

Over a century of advancing the administrative profession

1915

Foundation

The Office Machinery Users' Association (OMUA) was founded at the London School of Economics by Professor Lawrence R. Dicksee, an accountant and university lecturer, as a forum for the exchange of experience and ideas on the use of office equipment and systems.

1935

Office Management Association

The organisation changed its name to the Office Management Association (OMA), reflecting its broader scope in supporting office management professionals across the United Kingdom.

1940s

Post-War Growth

Expansion of membership and services following World War II, supporting the reconstruction of British industry and commerce through professional development.

1970s

International Expansion

Beginning of international recognition with the establishment of partnerships and members across the Commonwealth nations. The Institute gained prominence and wider respect globally.

1990s

Institute of Administrative Management

The organisation was renamed to the Institute of Administrative Management (IAM), with a comprehensive qualification framework aligned with national standards and regulatory requirements.

2010

IPA Incorporated

Introduction of the Institute of Professional Administrators (IPA) into IAM's framework, expanding professional recognition and membership pathways for administrative professionals.

2014

Re-establishment

IAM was acquired and re-established under Industry Qualifications (IQ), focusing on re-establishing IAM qualifications and re-engaging with students and members worldwide.

2026

Digital Services & AI Innovation

Advancing our services with a focus on digital transformation and artificial intelligence, delivering innovative learning solutions and enhanced member experiences for the modern professional.

Start Your Professional Journey Today

Become part of a worldwide network of professional administrators committed to excellence and continuous improvement.

Join Membership Explore Qualifications

Explore 1000+ CPD Courses

Enhance your skills with our comprehensive range of continuing professional development courses available through IAM Academy.

Browse CPD Courses →

Become IAM Certified

Take your career to the next level with our professional certification programmes for trainers, coaches, consultants, and assessors.

View Certified Programmes →
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IAM Services

Discover how IAM can support your professional journey

Individual Membership

Join our global community of administrative professionals

Corporate Membership

Empower your team with professional development

Qualifications

Ofqual regulated qualifications from Level 2 to Level 8

Get Accredited

Become an accredited IAM centre and deliver our qualifications