At the end ofNovember the CII wrote to 880 members who met the qualification'scriteria and invited them to apply for the new title. To date, over 61% have submitted an application, exceeding the CII’s initialtake-up expectations.
CII president Peter Hales said, “This is fantastic news for the industry anddemonstrates the value that its top professionals place on being able to call themselves Chartered. Applications are still beingreceived and I am confident that we will have a full house for ourinitial graduation event in March.
“The implications of this reach beyond those who achieve Chartered status to everyonewho works in the industry, who will now benefit from being part of aChartered profession. This is an essential element in the campaign to raise levels of consumer confidence in the financial planning industry.
"It is also a major advantage in the industry’s efforts to attract the brightest and the best new recruits.”
To be awarded Chartered Financial Planner status, an individual will have to gain CII-approved financial qualifications, equivalent to first degree level, be able to demonstrate relevant experience, adherence to the CII’s Code of Ethics and Conduct and a commitment to continuingprofessional development.
The main route to the Charteredtitle is via the Advanced Financial Planning Certificate (AFPC), and theDiploma in Financial Planning, which has created aqualifications framework that is modular in design so that financial planners will be able to select courses andexaminations to test their knowledge and competence in specificareas.
CII deputy director generalBob Bullivant commented,“A Chartered title represents the gold standard for professional qualifications and it can only be awarded by a Chartered professional body. The introduction of the Chartered Financial Planner title has put us on a par with other Chartered professions.”
An inaugural graduation ceremony will be held on March 2nd to recognise thosebeing awarded Chartered Financial Planner status on or before January 20th.
