Is a PhD degree necessary to be an Imam?

With my previous discussion with Mr. Aref Abedi, I was told that Ph.D. degree is not required for Imam to work at the organization.

I replied: I understand, but fake Ph.D. could help negotiate higher pay-rate for Friday sermons (Khutbah). For instance, If I say that I have Ph.D. I would ask for $300 instead of $200 for 30-minute Friday Khutbah – Right?

It would also make the organization sound very prestigious – Right?

He was speechless and said, I will let board of directors decided on this issue.