Disciplinary Process 

To maintain the integrity of the CRAA® credential and examination, implements a formal disciplinary process designed to uphold the Code and Principles of Professional Conduct, along with all rules and policies of the CRAA® Program. Discover more about our approach to handling ethics matters and the peer-review disciplinary process.

Ethical Concerns and the Disciplinary Process

Our decisions — as developers, asset managers, investors, consultants, or value-creators — play a critical role in shaping the real assets profession. Professionals in this field navigate complex and evolving environments to optimize returns and manage risks effectively. The CERTIFIED REAL ASSETS ANALYST (CRAA®) designation emphasizes the importance of making strategic and ethical choices to achieve long-term success for both the profession and the public.

CRAA® certificants and candidates commit to adhering to RPII's Code and Principles of Professional Conduct throughout the certification process. Should concerns arise regarding the conduct or actions of a CRAA® certificant or candidate, RPII has empowered the Ethics Committee (EC) to review and address any complaints. This process ensures the integrity of the CRAA® designation and upholds its value to the real assets industry and the broader public.

The Disciplinary Procedure Pathway

1. Receipt of Misconduct Notice

RPII may initiate a disciplinary case for alleged violations of (i) the ethical standards set by RPII and (ii) the rules and requirements of the CRAA® Program. Compliance may be monitored through written complaints, self-reporting, and internal reviews.

2. Investigation

If RPII's ethics liaison determines that a disciplinary inquiry is warranted based on the received information, an investigation will be conducted according to the Ethics Committee Rules and Procedures. If the investigation reveals no evidence or insufficient evidence to support the allegations, the case will be closed. Otherwise, it will be referred to the Ethics Committee for further consideration.

3. Ethics Committee Review

The Ethics Committee (EC) reviews and decides on all matters related to alleged violations of the Code and Principles of Professional Conduct, as well as any rules pertaining to the CRAA® Program. The Ethics Committee Procedures and Rules (ECPR) govern the review, investigation, and resolution of these matters. All proceedings will be treated as confidential, except as otherwise specified by the ECPR.

4. Determination and Disposition

The Ethics Committee (EC) will determine, based on the facts and circumstances, whether disciplinary action is necessary. Unless otherwise required by the Ethics Committee Rules and Procedures, all determinations will remain confidential.

If a CRAA® certificant or candidate disagrees with the EC's determination, the individual may request a review of the matter by the Ethics Appeal Board (EAB).

Understanding the Need for an Ethics Committee and Disciplinary Process

CRAA® signifies not only advanced expertise in real assets but also the education, experience, and professionalism expected from all who join the CRAA® Program. We believe that the reputation of the real assets profession is upheld by the conduct of its professionals. Poor practice or misconduct can undermine public confidence in the stability of the real assets industry.

A structured certification program, including a fair and equitable disciplinary process, ensures that all certificants adhere to the highest ethical standards. This approach helps to maintain the integrity of the certification and fosters trust in the industry.