The road of a credit professional’s career can be a bumpy one—with twists and turns that can leave them off balance. That said, ongoing education provides the knowledge and skills needed to navigate challenges and stay on course toward long-term success.  

As you embark on your credit career, you will always be faced with new challenges. Whether you are taking on new responsibilities, handling larger customers or starting an entirely new role, continued education is a critical resource as you ready yourself for every turn your career journey takes. For Matt Mezger, CCRA, CBA, CICP, credit team lead at Uline (Pleasant Prairie, WI), earning his Certified International Credit Professional (CICP) designation helped him prepare to manage new international customers.   “As my company loo…

Business-to-business (B2B) credit management is a field where professionals often learn on the job, and most credit specialists have an unconventional path into the industry. To bridge knowledge gaps, many join trade associations, seek mentorship or gain experience through hands-on work. For ambitious credit professionals, pursuing certifications and educational programs further deepens their understanding and strengthens the skills necessary to navigate B2B credit effectively. 

Everyone has a story about their first year in the profession—some funny, others humbling. From innocent mistakes to outright failures, most professionals carry a few lessons learned the hard way. Credit professionals are no exception. Fortunately, NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program helps turn those lessons into stepping stones, equipping credit practitioners with the knowledge and credibility to grow and thrive in their careers. 

Continued education is key as you advance in your career. As you take on new responsibilities in a new role, it is critical that you find ways to prepare yourself for new challenges. Earning a designation through NACM and FCIB’s Professional Designation Program is an excellent way to build and refine your skills as you prepare to put your best foot forward.  

No matter where you are in the world, we are all connected. A major event in one part of the world sends ripple effects across global markets, impacting other countries—positively or negatively. As geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty increase, the risks for credit professionals continue to rise. Staying informed and prepared has never been more essential.  

Pursuing a professional designation through one of NACM and FCIB’s Professional Certification Programs is not only a chance to deepen your understanding of business credit, but an opportunity to learn more about yourself. For Dane Navia, CICP, senior credit analyst for Johnson and Johnson International (Singapore), earning her Certified International Credit Professional (CICP) designation was a transformative experience. 

Credit management is shaped by market cycles, economic trends and digital transformation. In an industry like this—you can’t afford to stand still. Staying ahead of the curve requires continuous learning, and many credit professionals build their expertise by earning certifications through NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program.