Cyber insurance demands a deep understanding of complex risks and innovative solutions. For Certified Cyber Insurance Specialist (CCIS) graduate Mariana Gomes, who has built an impressive career in insurance, specializing in financial lines and cyber risks, staying ahead in this dynamic industry is both a challenge and an opportunity. Mariana’s journey from managing SME portfolios to becoming a senior associate at WTW highlights the growing importance of certification and continuing education.
Staying Ahead of the Curve with Continuing Education
The CCIS course proved transformative for Mariana, equipping her with a critical understanding of cyber risks and their far-reaching implications. By diving into the complexities of how cyber threats impact companies, their supply chains, and society at large, Mariana gained a more comprehensive view of the challenges her clients face. “I now believe I’m more well-equipped to understand cyber risk and the impact it can have, not only on the companies themselves but also on their clients, suppliers, and society in general,” she shared. This expertise has quickly made a huge impact on her work, enabling her to identify policy gaps during client renewals.
Continuing Education and Cyber Insurance
Continuing education is essential for staying ahead in the cyber insurance market. Working in Portugal, Mariana emphasizes the importance of certifications like the CCIS in elevating professionals through alignment with international standards. “I believe that this type of certification allows [insurance professionals] to better their understanding of the risks posed to clients, competing on the same level as countries with a more developed cyber insurance market,” she explained. For professionals in smaller or less mature markets, like Portugal, such certifications are vital for bridging knowledge gaps and remaining competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
As Mariana points out, the cyber insurance market changes quickly, with new risks, regulations, and client demands emerging all the time. Investing in continuing education ensures professionals remain informed and capable of addressing the complexities of the field, meeting both current and future challenges head-on.
