About the CBCM™ designation
The Chartered Business Continuity Manager (CBCM™) is a practitioner-level credential from the Chartered Institute of Management Specialists (CIMS) that recognises individuals with exceptional competence, expertise and leadership in managing business continuity and disaster recovery programmes within organisations. It signifies a commitment to excellence in protecting organisational resilience, sustaining continuity of operations, and mitigating the risks associated with disruption.
Holders of the designation are recognised as business continuity practitioners who can build robust continuity plans, lead crisis and incident response, and strengthen an organisation's ability to withstand and recover from disruption, while upholding the professional and ethical standards the discipline demands.
Entry requirements
To be considered for the CBCM™ designation, applicants are expected to meet the following criteria:
Academic background
A bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in business continuity management, risk management, disaster recovery, or a related field; an advanced degree such as a master's or MBA may be preferred.
Professional experience
Substantial experience in business continuity management roles, typically in the region of 7–15 years or more, with demonstrated leadership and responsibility for continuity programmes and initiatives.
Professional competence
A comprehensive understanding of business continuity principles, standards, methodologies and best practices, together with a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Ethical standards
Adherence to the ethical principles and professional codes of conduct established by relevant business continuity organisations and regulatory bodies.
Mode of assessment
Candidates are evaluated across several dimensions to confirm their readiness for the designation:
- Review of academic qualifications, professional certifications and continuing education courses related to business continuity management.
- Documentation of professional experience, including continuity plans developed, exercises conducted and incidents managed.
- Examination of technical knowledge and competency in business continuity principles, methodologies and tools.
- Interview or oral examination to assess understanding of business continuity concepts, problem-solving ability and leadership skill.
Standards & competencies
The CBCM™ designation is awarded to professionals who can demonstrate consistent, evidenced competency in the following areas:
Features & benefits
Professional recognition
The designation distinguishes holders as highly skilled and experienced professionals in business continuity management, strengthening their credibility and reputation within the industry.
Career advancement
Chartered Business Continuity Managers are well-positioned for leadership roles in business continuity departments, risk management firms, government agencies and other organisations, with opportunities for career progression and increased responsibility.
Organisational resilience
Certified professionals contribute to stronger organisational resilience by developing robust continuity plans, running effective training and exercises, and leading coordinated responses to disruption.
Continued professional development
Holders of the designation are committed to ongoing learning and development, staying abreast of emerging technologies, industry trends and regulatory change in business continuity management.