IMA’s “myCMA” series spotlights valued members of the CMA^® (Certified Management Accountant) community. Learn about their journey with the certification—and get tips on advancing your own. This issue’s featured CMA is:

	Name:	Karan Bhople
	Company:	SentinelOne
	Title:	Director of Financial Planning & Analysis
	Location:	Mountain View, Calif.

 

1. How did you first come across the CMA and what made you decide to go for it?
   
   I came across the CMA in my management accounting textbook, and at that time I found out that the CFO at my company was a CMA himself. I also met someone who became my friend and who was also a CMA. I investigated the CMA curriculum and saw some relation to my job as a financial analyst, so I decided to pursue the certification.
   
   
2. In what ways do you think the CMA has impacted (or will impact) your professional journey?
   
   We live in a time when corporate jobs require specific skills that are not necessarily honed by common undergraduate and graduate degrees, a situation that impels employers to value certifications in specific subject areas. The CMA adds credibility and depth to my résumé in a way that a more formal degree does not. For example, my current manager, the CFO, included my CMA in his short introduction of me to the entire company. I’d like to think that that inclusion raised my profile in everyone’s eyes.
   
   
3. What is your proudest career moment or milestone as a CMA?
   
   Winning the CMA Gold Medal for the January-February 2017 testing window was a proud moment, as until then I had only passed the CMA exam without knowing that I had aced it. Becoming director of finance was also a key career milestone.
   
   
4. What’s the best piece of advice you would give to CMA hopefuls?
   
   Understand that getting the CMA is not the end but just the beginning of a career in strategic finance. It is an indicator of competence, but it is important to keep skills fresh and updated with the latest knowledge and technology. Also, always be intellectually curious and excited about learning.
   
   
5. For those taking the exam, what study tip(s) can you share?
   
   Do not study on your own; it is wise to choose a test-prep service. Investing in such a service does notably increase your chances of passing the exam. Budget at least three to four months to study for both exam parts.
   
   
6. What’s the one thing you know now that you wish you knew at the start of your career?
   
   I wish that, early in my career, I had had more confidence in the fact that my abilities and potential were a function of the focus I dedicated to learning and honing skills, and that this learning was entirely in my hands. I am aware of this power now, but had I known it earlier I would have benefited even more.

Share YOUR Story
We’d love to hear your CMA story! Please contact Lori Parks, staff writer/editor, at lori.parks@imanet.org or +1 (201) 474-1536.