Tag: Education

Good leadership is like a relay race—those who pass the baton to the next runner ensure that the whole team keeps moving forward. In the credit industry, where much of the expertise comes from hands-on experience, leaders have a responsibility to actively fill knowledge gaps and guide newer credit professionals. 

One of the hallmarks of a strong credit manager is a commitment to keep learning and improving themselves professionally. Earning a designation through one of NACM and FCIB’s six Professional Certification Programs is one way credit managers can advance in their careers.

Credit management is a fast-paced career where decisions often need to be made quickly, sometimes in real time, to manage risk, cash flow and customer relationships. But, the trust, knowledge and judgment that drive those decisions are built slowly, over time. Credit professionals hoping to develop those traits and gain instrumental knowledge seek out education through NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program. By doing so, certification holders bring forth an enriched expertise and skill set that helps them stand out in the crowd.  

Credit professionals do more than manage risk and protect their companies’ bottom lines, they often serve as mentors, leaders and changemakers. Today, we celebrate those who not only excel in their own careers but also uplift others along the way. These credit professionals make a lasting impact on the people and organizations around them. We’re proud to recognize Michelle Riepe, CCE, credit support manager at Ben E. Keith Company (Fort Worth, TX), recipient of the GSCFM Student Leader Award from NACM’s National Honors and Awards Program.  

In an ever-changing field like credit management, continued education is a critical tool to help credit professionals keep up with the evolving risk landscape. For Leila Wolfe, CBF, credit supervisor at Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (Baton Rouge, LA), earning the Credit Business Fellow (CBF) designation deepened her understanding of the legal aspect of credit. 

Tracy Mitchell, CBA, director of accounts receivable at Trinity Logistics (Seaford, DE) is this year’s recipient of the CBA Designation of Excellence Award, granted to credit professionals who have both attained the Credit Business Associate (CBA) and shown a commitment to excellence through continuous learning and sharing knowledge by speaking, teaching or mentoring.

Knowledge is a powerful catalyst—it not only equips you to make smarter decisions but also empowers you to push beyond your limits and grow in ways you never thought possible. For over 50 years, NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program has been a trusted resource for education and professional growth in the credit management field. 

NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program serves as a continual reminder to credit professionals of the importance of growth through education. It encourages them to push boundaries, expand their expertise and elevate their roles in credit management. 

Earning a professional certification is a transformative opportunity for credit professionals worldwide, leading to dynamic career shifts. NACM and FCIB’s six-level Professional Certification Program does just that by enhancing a credit professional’s abilities and deepening their understanding of the field.