Earning your CEBS designation is a learning journey. Along the way, you acquire valuable employee benefits knowledge and relevant new skills. As you apply what you’ve learned to your work, you can forge a unique career pathway that is truly your own. Here’s a designee’s CEBS story.
A Chat With Jenna Kennedy, CEBS
Jenna Kennedy, CEBS
Senior Business Specialist
Co-operators Life Insurance Company
Could you describe how expanding your professional network has helped you attain success?
“I’m fortunate to work with an organization that is highly supportive of learning and development. When I began studying for the CEBS designation, I was introduced to colleagues working within different departments of the organization who all shared encouraging words about pursuing it. It was a great experience to be able to connect with co-workers who had already completed the courses to learn about how they dedicated time to studying and preparing for the exams. It was also inspirational to learn about many individuals who attained the CEBS designation and see how it helped to advance their careers and support their professional development. Having this network within my organization was very motivating!”
Could you share some insight about how pursuing your CEBS demonstrates that you are a lifelong learner and an expert in your profession?
“Pursuing my CEBS was an important milestone that I sought to attain early in my career. After completing university, I always had the intention of continuing to focus on formal learning in my career. The CEBS designation was a natural program to pursue as it helped to solidify foundational principles and applications that I was already familiar with from work in my day-to-day role as a group benefits account executive. Working towards this designation early in my career equipped me with confidence as it reinforced learning gained through the daily responsibilities in my role. After earning my CEBS, I recall being regarded as a trusted expert among my peers. The CEBS designation is one that is highly regarded in the insurance industry; having this credential helps to garner a lot of initial trust when working with advisors and their clients.”
Could you share a story about how you prepared for your CEBS exams and applied what you learned to your work?
“I was diligent with setting time aside on evenings and weekends to study for the CEBS exams. The practice exams were one of the most valuable tools that I used to help prepare for the exams. I recall having a greater understanding of the methodology and economics that impact health care and group benefit programs. Through the CEBS program, I developed a comprehensive understanding of group benefits fundamentals, equipping me with insight into the strategic, financial and administrative factors that shape successful benefits programs. This expertise strengthened my ability to provide strategic recommendations and deliver meaningful support to advisors, contributing to positive client outcomes.”
How has earning your CEBS designation helped you advance in your career?
“Since earning the CEBS designation, I’ve advanced my career through earning two different roles. I currently work in a role that supports research and group benefits product development. I’m fortunate to be contributing to meaningful projects that provide increased support to plan members and enhance the client experience. It’s rewarding to work in a capacity where I have the education, experience and skill set required to lead innovative projects that provide meaningful support to clients. Without the CEBS designation, it would have been difficult to advance my career.”
