RIMS-CRMP Stories

Miguel Ramírez Silva has been with Coca-Cola FEMSA in Mexico City, Mexico for 10 years. As the risk manager for the Coca-Cola system’s largest public bottler, he knew earning the RIMS-CRMP certification would provide the skills necessary to thrive in his industry and the risk profession.

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

Ramírez Silva: The decision to pursue the RIMS-CRMP certification was driven by the international recognition associated with the RIMS-CRMP credential. Obtaining a credential endorsed by RIMS validates my competence globally and it is recognized as a standard of excellence.

Furthermore, a key motivator for seeking the RIMS-CRMP certification was the opportunity to validate and demonstrate my practical experience accumulated over the years in the field of risk management. The certification assesses not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. Having both theoretical and practical approach provides a well-rounded skill set.

RIMS: You’ve been at Coca-Cola FEMSA since 2015 and have consistently moved up the ranks to risk manager. How did your career experience lend itself as a knowledge base for taking the exam?

Ramírez Silva: My experience at Coca-Cola FEMSA has been a transformative journey, allowing me to ascend through various roles to my current position. As I looked into the exam preparation materials, I realized that a substantial portion of the content aligned with my practical experience in the field of risk management at Coca-Cola FEMSA. Many concepts and methodologies covered in the study materials were not just theoretical to me, they were directly related with my day-to-day responsibilities, and I have already learned and implemented much of the content over the years.

This awareness gave me a significant level of confidence and allowed me to approach the exam preparation strategically. With a solid foundation in place, I could focus my study efforts on the areas where I felt less familiar, ensuring a more efficient and targeted preparation process as I recognized that I had already learned and implemented much of the content over the years.

RIMS: Were some of the questions or scenarios of the test reminiscent of your work at Coca-Cola?

Ramírez Silva: Absolutely, that's a great question. While looking into the preparation materials for the certification, I realized that many of the questions and scenarios resonated strongly with my experience at Coca-Cola FEMSA and the theoretical content often brought to mind real-world situations where I had facilitated meetings with many departments, collaborating on risk assessments and getting into agreements.

The dynamic nature of the questions in the test mirrored the complexity of interactions with stakeholders, requiring a thoughtful and strategic approach that closely resembled the challenges I've encountered in my role at Coca-Cola FEMSA.

RIMS: In what ways did Coca-Cola support you in preparing for the exam?

Ramírez Silva: Coca-Cola FEMSA played a key role in supporting my preparation for the exam in several meaningful ways. Firstly, the company generously covered the costs associated with the certification journey, including the exam prep workshop and the examination fees.

Beyond the financial support, what sets Coca-Cola FEMSA apart is its intrinsic commitment to the professional development of its employees. The company consistently encourages and supports its staff to pursue continuous learning and strive for excellence in their respective fields.

RIMS: It has only been a year since you earned the certification. Has adding the RIMS-CRMP to your title enhanced your career?

Ramírez Silva: Absolutely, I've observed that the knowledge and best practices learned during the preparation and examination process have empowered me to articulate with greater assurance that the risk management strategies and practices we advocate and implement at Coca-Cola FEMSA are firmly grounded in industry-leading frameworks. This added credibility has strengthened my ability to convey the effectiveness of our risk management approach, fostering a deeper sense of trust among stakeholders.

Moreover, the impact extends to my online presence, particularly on LinkedIn. The visibility of my profile has notably increased, reflecting a heightened interest from professionals in the risk management community. I've been invited to participate in specialized risk management groups where engaging discussions on industry-relevant topics take place.

Furthermore, I've had the privilege of being approached by colleagues seeking my perspective and advice on pursuing the RIMS-CRMP certification. It's gratifying to share my positive experience and encourage others to embark on this journey. I strongly endorse anyone considering the certification to go for it!

RIMS: How did you study?

Ramírez Silva: The RIMS-CRMP exam prep workshop played a key role, which in my case, was facilitated by Dr. Joseph A. Milan, who is an expert in the field of risk management. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge that he is an excellent facilitator.

The workshop provided me with insights into the exam structure and highlighted my strengths and weaknesses through a strategic self-assessment, which became the cornerstone for developing a personalized study plan.

RIMS: How do you plan to keep your knowledge current to maintain the certification and recertify?

Ramírez Silva: To ensure recertification, I believe active participation in conferences, webinars, and other events is crucial for staying up to date of the latest trends and developments in risk management.

See the full RIMS-CRMP Exam Prep calendar.

Interview by Justin Smulison, RIMS Business Content Manager