Who is a Certified Risk Manager?
A Certified Risk Manager (CRM) is a professional who has obtained a certification in risk management, demonstrating expertise in identifying, assessing, and managing risk within various business contexts. A CRM holds an internationally recognized designation that can be earned through the Institute of Risk Management’s (IRM) well-structured global Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Examinations and Memberships from Level 1 to 5; Level 5 being the Certified Fellowship in ERM.
The role of a Certified Risk Manager is crucial in business settings as they help organizations anticipate potential risks and devise strategies to mitigate them, ensuring the company’s longevity and stability. They are tasked with creating comprehensive risk management plans, determining how risks should be managed, identifying potential threats, and implementing preventive measures to reduce or eliminate those threats. Their work often involves a mix of quantitative and qualitative analysis and they must constantly stay updated on regulatory changes, economic factors, and emerging risk trends that could impact the business. A CRM can set up its own risk consulting business or work in the risk management department of an organization or work as a risk champion in any business vertical / department of an organization to manage domain-specific risks.
In short, a CRM has the necessary acumen to conduct risk identification, assessment, and mitigation of all areas of operational risk, financial risks, and strategic risks.
What are the benefits of being a Certified Risk Manager?
Becoming a CRM comes with numerous benefits, both personal and professional. On the professional front, earning a certified status/designation sets individuals apart in the marketplace, showcasing their commitment to continuing education, dedication to the field, and advanced understanding of ERM strategies. This could lead to increased job opportunities, promotions, and a higher earning potential. In fact, many organizations prioritize hiring professionals with an IRM designation/certification, recognizing the significant value they can bring in terms of protecting business interests and enhancing operational efficiency.
From a personal perspective, obtaining the certified status from IRM helps individuals deepen their understanding of risk management, elevate their problem-solving and decision-making skills, and grow their professional network. The designations awarded by the IRM, are the world’s most highly respected titles for ERM professionals. Achieving success in ERM, after passing IRM’s rigorous qualifications and demonstrating relevant work experience, signifies a CRM’s expertise and proficiency in the essential knowledge and skills needed to manage enterprise-wide risks across sectors and economies, including cybersecurity, supply chain, climate change, reputation, and more.
Furthermore, the rigorous training and study necessary for obtaining the certification encourages the development of discipline, resilience, and a more strategic mindset, all of which are valuable traits in any professional setting.
What are the qualities & ethics followed by a Certified Risk Manager?
A Certified Risk Manager (CRM) who has earned the Institute of Risk Management’s (IRM) ERM designation / global ERM certification, should exhibit a range of qualities and ethics that underpin their ability to effectively manage risk. Foremost among these is integrity, as CRMs often handle sensitive data and make decisions that can significantly impact an organization. They must demonstrate honesty and transparency in all their dealings. Additionally, CRMs should have strong analytical skills, enabling them to assess complex situations, identify potential risks, and develop effective mitigation strategies. Communication is also critical; CRMs need to convey complex risk-related information clearly to various stakeholders. As for ethics, a CRM should adhere to principles like confidentiality, impartiality, and professional competence. They should respect the confidentiality of information obtained in the course of their duties and avoid conflicts of interest. CRMs are expected to maintain professional competence, stay up-to-date with developments in risk management, and apply their skills and knowledge in a way that benefits their organization while also respecting the broader societal and environmental impacts of their decisions.
What is the path to becoming a Certified Risk Manager (CRM) with IRM India Affiliate?
Aspiring candidates can start with IRM’s Level 1 Global Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Examination alongside under-graduation (UG) or postgraduation (PG) studies or even while working. Professionals with 2 years of risk experience can directly start with IRM’s Level 2 Exam that has two routes – General ERM versus Financial Services ERM leading to the ‘IRMCert’. The Level 3 Qualification is at par with an International Master and requires candidates to submit a project report to earn the designation ‘GradIRM’ at this stage. Level 4 is called the Certified Membership leading to the ‘CMIRM’ designation. Chief Risk Officers (CROs) or Risk Leaders with 8 years of risk experience can directly apply for the Senior Executive Exemption Route to Level 4. After two years of holding the CMIRM title, candidates can apply for the Fellowship in ERM at Level 5, leading to the ‘CFIRM’ designation – the highest grade in Enterprise Risk Management. CRMs can earn the IRM designations in India through IRM India Affiliate and elevate their professional career to demonstrate that they can successfully manage enterprise-wide risks and develop a robust risk culture with resilience and crisis-readiness for any organization.
