Driving success through expertise 

Education is a vital resource for credit professionals, allowing them to approach their day-to-day work armed with refined expertise, wide-ranging perspectives and newfound confidence. Earning a certification through one of NACM and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs allows credit managers to gain and expand on the multi-faceted skillset needed to succeed in an ever-shifting field.

For Jake Merriman, CBF, credit manager for Masons Supply Company (Ridgefield, WA), earning his Credit Business Fellow (CBF) reflects his commitment to improving himself within the field. “Being a credit manager is a constant pursuit of knowledge to be the best I can be at my job, both for my company and for myself,” Merriman said. “I take pride in what I do and making sure I’m as informed as possible is part of that.”

Finding balance between classes and a full-time job may be a challenge, but for Merriman the opportunity to build and refine his credit skills made it worth it. “I enjoy the learning aspect and the classes are incredibly comprehensive, but as a husband and father of two with a full-time job, finding the time is always tricky,” Merriman said. “Nevertheless, knowing that I’m furthering my education and helping my career is a great feeling. I take pride in what I do so knowing as much as I can is important.”

Working in credit management, continued education is critical to stay on top of a complicated risk environment always in flux. Even years into a career in credit management, there are still loads to learn to stay ahead. “Throughout my NACM journey I’m always learning something new and that’s probably my favorite part about it,” Merriman said.

📝Study tip: Learning material can be overwhelming, so it’s important to take your time. “Just take it one step at a time,” Merriman said. “Make sure you tackle a little bit each day.”