ITIL 4 Certification Pathways and Career Progression

If you work in IT and want to move forward with confidence, the ITIL 4 framework is a solid place to start. It’s a trusted system for managing and improving IT services, and it offers a clear path to help you build your knowledge and grow your career.

Whether you’re just beginning or already working in a senior role, let’s take a look at how the ITIL 4 certifications can support your progression.

Getting Started – ITIL 4 Foundation

This is your first step. The ITIL 4 Foundation introduces you to key concepts in modern IT service management. You’ll explore the Service Value System (SVS), the Four Dimensions of Service Management, and the 34 ITIL practices.

It’s the essential starting point before moving on to any further ITIL certifications.

Developing Hands-On Skills – ITIL 4 Practice Manager

If you’re in a practical, day-to-day IT role, this is where you build deeper skills. The Practice Manager certification is designed to help you improve specific organisational practices and contribute directly to performance improvements.

To qualify, you’ll need to complete the ‘Create, Deliver and Support’ module and either:

• Any five individual practice-based certifications, or
• One of the following pre-bundled modules:
  • Monitor, Support and Fulfil
  • Plan, Implement and Control
  • Collaborate, Assure and Improve

This stage often suits roles like IT Support Technician, Junior Project Manager or Service Desk Analyst.

Moving into Management – ITIL 4 Managing Professional

If you’re in or aiming for a mid-to-senior role, this path helps you develop the skills needed to manage and deliver IT-enabled services more effectively.

To earn this certification, you’ll complete:

• Create, Deliver and Support
• Drive Stakeholder Value
• High-Velocity IT
• Direct, Plan and Improve

It’s ideal for those in roles such as IT Service Manager, IT Project Manager or IT Operations Manager.

Thinking More Strategically – ITIL 4 Strategic Leader

This route is for those in leadership roles who want to strengthen their strategic thinking and lead transformation across the business. It focuses on aligning IT and digital strategy with overall organisational goals.

To complete this certification, you’ll study:

• Direct, Plan and Improve
• Digital and IT Strategy

It’s suited to roles such as IT Director, Strategy Manager or Service Delivery Manager.

Specialist Knowledge – ITIL 4 Extension Modules

If you want to focus on specific emerging areas, the extension modules are designed for that. These help you become a subject matter expert in key areas that support business change and innovation.

Available modules include:

• Sustainability in Digital and IT
• Acquiring and Managing Cloud Services
• Business Relationship Management
• IT Asset Management

These are great for those in consultant, specialist or managerial roles.

Top of the Tree – ITIL 4 Master

This is the highest level of certification and shows you can apply ITIL principles at every level of an organisation. It reflects a broad, integrated understanding of service management and leadership.

To achieve the ITIL 4 Master title, you must complete:

• ITIL 4 Practice Manager
• ITIL 4 Managing Professional
• ITIL 4 Strategic Leader

It’s most relevant for senior positions like CTO, CIO or IT Governance Director.

Renewing Your Certification

As of 2023, all ITIL certifications issued by PeopleCert need to be renewed every three years. It’s a straightforward way to ensure your skills stay sharp and relevant.

Getting Prepared

When you’re ready to start training, it helps to learn from the right provider. GEL by Omniplex Learning is an accredited training provider recommended for ITIL preparation.