Starting on July 19th 2004, the academy will cater for the distinct learning needs of all new consultants, existing sales personnel and executive consultants. In addition, MLP Private Finance has introduced an enhanced Continuous Professional Development programme in which all staff throughout the UK will participate.
Commenting on this exciting new initiative, Frank Mesterharm, managing director of MLP Private Finance, said: “There is an urgent need to bring a new generation of well qualified IFAs to the industry. The Academy will set new standards of professionalism amongst young advisers, and is especially designed to attract graduates into the industry. The issue of graduate entry into the IFA industry is critical at this time, and we believe this will provide a highly effective solution.”
The Academy is run in co-operation with the Sir John Cass Business School (part of the City University of London). Courses range from introductory skills, to MBA level.
< Module One: an initial 120-day training programme for all new MLP Private Finance consultants that offers comprehensive technical and sales skills training. All trainees will become aware of the regulatory environment they are entering into and will be expected to undertake FPC, MAQ and CeMAP examinations.
< Module Two: this caters for the ongoing learning needs of consultants that complete the first module, up until they celebrate their second anniversary with the company. The overall objectives are to ensure that consultants attain Competent Adviser Status and AFPC.
< Module Three: This is for those Executive Consultants and Training and Competence Supervisors that are managing teams – or are deemed to have management potential. The key aim of the module is to enhance and improve management and leadership skills.
< Module Four: all advisers who have completed module two, and all back-office staff will automatically undertake module four. The objectives are to ensure that all advisers are capable of setting and maintaining the highest quality standards when dealing with clients and be capable of developing specialist areas of business. Progress will be measured annually via rigorous assessments and revalidation exercises.
< Module Five: This offers everyone in the company the opportunity to participate in a sponsored part-time MBA programme at Cass Business School. MLP Private finance is committed to offering the highest achievers in the company the opportunity to take this 2-year part time MBA course.
The Dean of the Cass Business School Lord Currie of Marylebone said: “We were particularly inspired by the clear vision of MLP Private Finance, who are, in the Academy, dedicated to achieving an essential improvement in financial services advice throughout the UK. The lasting effect they wish for can only be achieved by adhering to the highest academic standards. We believe that the Academy gives young advisers, at the start of their career, the opportunity to establish new levels of professional integrity and expertise.”
And Frank Mesterharm added: “Our goal is that all MLP Private Finance advisers are sophisticated professionals with the breadth of knowledge and the training to ensure that they advise clients prudently on all their personal finance needs.”
