RIMS-CRMP Stories

Joseph Pugh is the ERM leader for AARP and is a highly visible RIMS member, having presented at many RIMS ERM conferences, including the RIMS ERM Conference 2023, and as a member of the RIMS Strategic and Enterprise Risk Management Council. He reflected on being among the early groups to pass the RIMS-CRMP exam and how the certification’s prestige has grown.

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

Pugh: I’m a continuous learner and having worked in the risk management space for decades, I thought it was only appropriate that I become certified through a highly regarded organization. The RIMS-CRMP demonstrates, to my organization and the industry, my dedication in advancing the risk management profession.

RIMS: When did you earn the certification?

Pugh: I earned my RIMS-CRMP in November 2017, not long after that the exam was initially offered in April 2016. I was eager to take the exam once I learned of the credential. I feel strongly that risk professionals, like ethics and compliance professionals, benefit from an industry certification. It exemplifies that risk practitioners have the knowledge and skills to offer value to their organizations.

RIMS: How did your career experiences lend themselves as a knowledge base for taking the exam?

Pugh: When I first begin studying for the RIMS-CRMP, I had more than 15 years’ experience in risk management, ethics and compliance. My experience at my current employer included building an enterprise risk management program from the ground up and one that is strategic-centric which was a great backdrop and knowledge base for the exam.

RIMS: How deeply was ERM reflected in the RIMS-CRMP curriculum when you took the exam?

Pugh: I remember the curriculum highlighting the fact that your ERM program should be strategic, which I thought was an important aspect.

RIMS: Have you noted any changes in the risk profession that speak to the importance of a certification such as the RIMS-CRMP?

Pugh: I am seeing more and more risk professional job postings listing the RIMS-CRMP as one of the preferred industry credentials, which I feel is positioning it as the gold standard in terms of risk management certifications.

RIMS: How did you study?

Pugh: I had not sat for an exam of this magnitude in quite some time, so I admittedly had some anxiety. I went through the RIMS-CRMP study guide and from there found additional material to help support my understanding of certain aspects of the five domains which the exam is based on. I probably started studying three-to-four weeks before sitting for 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?

Pugh: The RIMS-CRMP workshop was not offered when I was studying for the exam, but if it had been, I would have taken advantage of it as I have for other certifications I have earned. I learn best one-on-one through an instructor, so I encourage folks to utilize the workshop option.

RIMS: What plans do you have to recertify? What are your favorite methods for accruing points?

Pugh: I have recertified twice since 2017. I employ a variety of sources and methods for garnering continuing education points such as industry webinars, conference presentations, and writing industry articles or papers. My favorite venues for accruing points are RISKWORLD and the RIMS ERM conference – either as an attendee or presenter.

See the full RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep calendar.

Interview by Justin Smulison, RIMS Business Content Manager