Member Spotlight: CBA Certification Empowers Credit Professionals 

Credit professionals are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline their processes and build customer relationships, all while aiming to minimize risk while maximizing profit. Certifications earned through NACM’s six-level Professional Certification Program equips credit professionals with the tools to not only achieve these goals but foster their professional and personal development.  

The Credit Business Associate (CBA) designation, earned through NACM’s Professional Certification Program, enables credit professionals to master three business-credit related disciplines: Basic Financial Accounting, Financial Statement Analysis 1 and Business Credit Principles. 

Rebecca Cartwright, CBA, credit administrator at Helena Agri-Enterprises, LLC (Collierville, TN), shared that obtaining the CBA designation helped her demonstrate her professional development and broadened her knowledge of the B2B credit industry. “Achieving this certification is a testament to my dedication and puts me in a strong position for growth and advancement in the future,” Cartwright said. 

Earning the certification was both challenging and fulfilling for Cartwright. She gained a new perspective of the credit industry and a clearer understanding of best practices, particularly in risk assessment. The process also brought her the satisfaction of overcoming professional challenges. 

Upon passing the exam, Cartwright experienced immense joy and a profound sense of empowerment, both personally and professionally. “This achievement inspires me to keep pursuing my career development,” she said. “I’d like to encourage anyone considering the CBA designation to take the leap. It’s a valuable investment in your career that can open numerous opportunities.” 

💡Study Tips: Effectively balancing study time with work and personal commitments is vital for passing the course and the final exam. Create a well-organized study schedule without interruptions, along with allocating enough time to thoroughly cover all the content.  

“I made the most of the resources provided by the organization and found the practice quizzes and additional materials to be very valuable,” Cartwright said. “The support from mentors and colleagues proved invaluable, particularly when collaborating on more challenging topics.” 

For more information about each designation within NACM’s Professional Certification Program, visit our website.