you can update the CMP field with the help of local interface of the corresponding Entity.
for example
if you want to update PERSON table.
PersonLocal plocal=personHome.findByPrimaryKey(new PersonPK(personId));
then
plocal.setPersonRole(role);//this method is a CMP setter method
(or)
if you want to set bulk of data then u can use value object.
personValue.setPersonId(personId);
personValue.setPersonRole(role);
......
plocal.setPersonValue(personValue);
I think it wud be helpful for you.
Thanks
Bala.