RIMS-CRMP Stories

Carol Fritzsche is a member of the Delaware Valley RIMS Chapter and the Associate Director of Risk Management at Subaru of America. She earned her RIMS-CRMP in 2017 and spoke about the confidence she has since gained and her favorite methods for recertification.

RIMS: What inspired you to pursue the RIMS-CRMP?

Fritzsche: I had already obtained my Associate in Claims and Associate in Risk Management (ARM) from the Institutes. I was looking for another certification that would add to my credibility as a risk management professional in my organization. The RIMS-CRMP was an opportunity to certify my practical risk management experience outside of insurance policy language. The recertification requirements were also enticing as it would assist me in continuing my education in the ever-changing risk management industry.

RIMS: You have spent the last 10+ years at Subaru, a leader in the automotive industry. How does being at Subaru and working in the industry help prepare you for the exam (possibly at the enterprise level)?

Fritzsche: The concepts that the certification focused on were related to my responsibilities of managing risks for Subaru. Though purchasing insurance is a key responsibility of risk management at Subaru, the function involves constant communication and collaboration with key stakeholders in the organization to identify risks and opportunities as well as mitigate risks. These concepts are reflected in the exam.

RIMS: How does the knowledge from the RIMS-CRMP resurface in your daily responsibilities?

Fritzsche: The RIMS-CRMP focuses on the overall risk management process as opposed to purchasing insurance coverage and analyzing policy language. Both competencies are important in my daily responsibilities. However, the RIMS-CRMP affirms that insurance is just a part of my risk management toolbox, not the only tool. Risk management is also about understanding the business, collaborating with various departments, and consulting on risks and opportunities.

RIMS: How has the RIMS-CRMP helped you in your career?

Fritzsche: The certification has helped me solidify my expertise at my company in the risk management area. It’s also given me the confidence to speak and advise on risks and opportunities.

RIMS: How did you study for the exam?

Fritzsche: I used the RIMS-CRMP study guide and sample questions. I had over six years of experience in the industry when I earned the certification, and that experience helped me answer the practical questions on the exam.

RIMS: What tips do you have for anyone studying for the exam now? For example, how critical are the workshops especially now that they are offered in hybrid settings?

Fritzsche: Don’t discount what you already know if you have years of experience in the industry. The RIMS-CRMP workshop was not offered when I was preparing for the exam, but I would highly recommend it and all resources offered by RIMS.

RIMS: What plans do you have to recertify? What are your favorite methods for accruing CE points (i.e. attending/speaking at conferences, leading webinars, etc…)?

Fritzsche: I’ve recertified three times since earning the certification. My favorite methods for recertifying are attending risk management conferences, such as the CICA International Conference and RISKWORLD, local RIMS chapter meetings, and various risk and insurance webinars. These methods help me stay updated and provide additional knowledge in risk management and insurance.

See the full RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep calendar.

Hear Carol discuss fleet and traffic safety awareness on RIMScast.

Interview by Justin Smulison, RIMS Business Content Manager