Professional Documents
Culture Documents
fsi careerstart is funded under the springboard initiative which is managed by the higher education authority (hea) on behalf of the department of education and skills.
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
ThE FSI CArEErSTArT ProGrAMME fsi careerstart is a unique opportunity to gain new skills that will enable you to enter the exciting and fast growing world of international financial services while providing an in-depth knowledge of the industry, ifsc companies and information on employment opportunities in the sector. the fsi careerstart programme provides 100% funding for eligible candidates. fsi careerstart is led by financial services ireland, a business sector within ibec, the irish business and employers confederation. financial services ireland is working with two partners to deliver the programme:
1. the institute of bankers in ireland a recognised college of university college dublin and the leading education provider for those working in banking and financial services 2. the ibec management academy a leading provider of executive development programmes to companies throughout ireland.
with over 20 years experience, we have continuously improved and developed our programmes in line with the business communities changing needs. in our experience, organisations now adopt a more strategic, future oriented approach to training and development. in todays fast paced environment, if your staff are not learning, both the individual and the organisation are falling behind. ibec training aims to give people the information, skills and the motivation they need to do their jobs well and achieve the organisations business goals. we take a practical approach, tackling real issues that face managers and staff. our programmes range from a one hour seminar to certificate and diploma programmes. our trainers combine their experience in the fields of industrial relations, employment law, people development, health and safety and the environment. an investment in ibec training today means an investment in productivity, knowledge, employee loyalty and contribution for the future. ThE INTErNATIoNAl FINANCIAl SErVICES SECTor IN IrElANd oPPorTuNITIES For GroWTh the strategy for the international financial services in ireland 2011 2016 published in July 2011, sets out a vision for the future development of the ifsc, with the goal of creating 10,000 net new jobs over the next 5 years. launching the strategy, the taoiseach stated that the target of 10,000 jobs is a credible estimate based on expert assessment by those directly involved across all sectors of the industry. the opportunities are real, the competitive strengths of ireland are proven, and the capacity of the public authorities and the industry to cooperate to target growth opportunities is proven by the success of the industry to date. oVErVIEW oF ThE SECTor the term international financial services typically describes the three areas of banking and capital markets, investment management and insurance. the sector contributes direct employment of more then 30,000 people across 500 companies nationwide.
banking and capital markets
fsi careerstart is funded by springboard a new initiative designed to provide education and training opportunities to support unemployed people. the initiative is managed by the higher education authority (hea) on behalf of the department of education and skills.
PArTNErS ThE INSTITuTE oF BANkErS IN IrElANd the institute of bankers in ireland is a recognised college of university college dublin and is the leading professional educational body for those working in banking and financial services throughout ireland. all of the institutes educational programmes are offered through the school of professional finance - therefore members who successfully complete a school of professional finance programme receive their academic award from ucd. the institute is the first professional body to have all its academic awards included in the national framework of Qualifications (nfQ). the institute of bankers in ireland is the professional education body for bankers and financial services practitioners. founded in 1898, it is one of the oldest and most respected banking institutes in the world and is dedicated to the service of its 33,000 members and society at large. IBEC MANAGEMENT ACAdEMy ibec offers a comprehensive range of training programmes in the areas of people management, employment law, environmental compliance and health and safety legislation.
investment banking and capital market activities include trading debt, equities, fixed income, funds, foreign exchange, commodity and derivative instruments, and the origination of equity finance. with half of the worlds top 50 banking institutions located here, ireland has developed a crucial mass in banking and financial services expertise. the sector has specific capacities in debt products, securitisation, and in aircraft leasing.
investment management and administration
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
ireland has numerous strengths as a centre for funds administration. in 2010 the irish funds industry serviced over 1.88 trillion in fund assets held in over 10,700 irish domiciled and non-domiciled funds. ireland remains the fastest growing of the major cross-border ucits domiciles and during 2010 saw the proportion of global hedge funds domiciled in ireland double.
insurance/reinsurance
EMPloyMENT STATuS to be eligible to join the programme, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
be on the live register and claiming Jobseekers allowance (Ja) or Jobseekers benefit (Jb) for a minimum period of six months prior to the date of programme commencement, *see note 2 below be on the live register and signing for credits for a minimum period of six months prior to the date of programme commencement * see note 2 below be claiming one parent family payment (opfp) for a minimum period of six months prior to the date of programme commencement *see note 2 below
typical international insurance activities carried out in ireland include direct-writing insurance; insurance broking; reinsurance and captive management; risk securitisations and risk derivatives; back office operations; pan-european pensions; treasury and asset financing. ten of the worlds top 20 insurance companies have offices in the international financial services centre (ifsc) in dublin. the irish and uK markets are seen as particularly sophisticated in terms of unit-linked products and the reinsurance sector has also experienced strong growth rates in recent years.
note 1: programme will allow for Ja/Jb/opfp recipients who have done casual or part-time work during the six months prior to course commencement should they meet the requirements. if you are offered a place on the programme you will be required to;
obtain a statement from your local department of social protection offices confirming that you meet the six month rule and forward to the fsi careerstart office. apply for the part-time education allowance (pteo) once registered, using form bte 1.
and
Graduates from any discipline seeking to specialise in the skills required to gain employment in the international financial services sector
note 2: in calculating the qualifying period of six months unemployed, time in receipt of any of the following allowances will also be taken into account:
disability allowance back to education allowance (btea) back to work enterprise allowance (btwea)
ElIGIBIlITy CrITErIA EduCATIoNAl rEquIrEMENTS you must have a minimum academic achievement of five passes in the leaving certificate including english and mathematics or five o level/Gcse passes including english language and mathematics. candidates may have achieved degree or diploma qualifications previously. the programme allows those with primary degrees and higher to acquire a specialist additional qualification. candidates should provide details of all previous educational awards as part of the application process. exceptions may be made to the minimum academic requirements for adult learners who have gained extensive equivalent experience in employment. if you are a non-native english speaker, be advised that all programmes are offered through english and that all papers are set in english only. your standard of english should be such that you are comfortable undertaking learning and being assessed no differently from native english speakers.
dEVEloPEd SkIllS ANd ExPErIENCE previous skills and experience developed in the workplace, in extra-curricular activities, or in other context will also be reviewed as part of your application. please note that work placements (where available) will be assigned based on a match between the candidate and the company. companies may require entrance interviews before offering work placements. you may also be asked to take part in a telephone interview to confirm eligibility and/or provide additional information to assess your suitability for the programme. kEy dATES the application opening date is the 10th June and the closing date is 12th august. however, applications will be reviewed as they are received. offers will be issued from 1st July 2011 onwards therefore early submission of your application is recommended.
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
ProGrAMME BENEFITS
opportunity to reskill or upskill in a growing sector of the economy opportunities to get access to prospective employers become a student at one of the leading providers of financial courses in ireland, the institute of bankers in ireland, a recognised college of university college dublin and receive an academic award from university college dublin receive hetac certified management training from ibec management academy Gain valuable experience and references for your cv become familiar with the international financial services sector career paths network with members of the international financial services sector connect to financial services ireland - the leading industry body for the sector
Sector skills
Professional and Business Skills Certificate in management Certificate in management Certificate in management
Industry readiness Skills work experience/ mentoring work experience/ mentoring work experience/ mentoring
Certificate in international financial services Certificate in investment funds services diploma in financial services (including Certificate in international financial services) diploma in financial services (including Certificate in international financial services)
option 3 Path B
Certificate in management
For companies
assess and select high potential candidates for work placement support the unemployed to obtain industry focused qualifications work experience candidates are supported by industry-specific awareness and skills programmes at no cost to the company work with your industry association financial services ireland on a broadly based learning and development model for people seeking to enter the sector Get to know high potential candidates in a practical work setting identify people for special project teams Gain support for company work placements from financial services ireland staff support best practice in training and education for potential entrants to the sector.
the programme will be delivered over a 12-month continuous period. during this time, learning will take place in a flexible way through evening lectures, distance/ online learning and one day workshops. candidates will engage in either (a) a workplacement for 3-6 months during the programme, while continuing their educational path or (b) industry mentoring to develop individual career and skills enhancement strategies. rather than adopt a one size fits all approach, the programme is structured to allow a range of learning pathways that is customised to the specific skills and experience background of each individual candidate. 100% funding is provided to candidates for all courses, exams and other programme supports. Candidates can also maintain their jobseekers allowance/benefits if they have been unemployed for at least 6 months before the programme commencement date. SECTor SkIllS candidates choose from four learning options, depending on the individuals educational and work experience to date. the sector skills courses are offered by the institute of bankers school of professional finance and include four learning options, each recognised at level 7 on the national framework of Qualifications.
option 1: professional certificate in international financial services
hoW doES IT Work? fsi careerstart programme will run from september 2011 until september 2012 and has four learner options as outlined below. each candidate can engage in one of four learning paths with the objective of enhancing their sector skills, professional and business skills and industry readiness skills.
option 2: professional certificate in investment fund services option 3A: university diploma in financial services (including professional certificate in international financial services) option 3B: university diploma in financial services (including professional certificate in investment fund services)
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
ProFESSIoNAl ANd BuSINESS SkIllS professional and business skills candidiates partake in the certificate in management offered by the ibec management academy. this 10 module course is designed to develop candidates managerial skills so that they can become more efficient managers. the courses emphasis is on the development of the candidates people management, interpersonal, financial and legal skills by providing them with plenty of intellectual stimulation and opportunities to put theory into practice. INduSTry rEAdINESS SkIllS candidates engage in either (a) a workplacement for 3-6 months during the programme, while continuing their educational path or (b) industry mentoring to develop individual career and skills enhancement strategies. companies that have participated in the careerstart programme include: caceis bank luxembourg - dublin branch, citco fund services, citibank, Gam fund management, Jp morgan, state street. hoW do I APPly? all applications for fsi careerstart must be made online through the bluebrick application system. to access this application system, use the bluebrick link at www.fsicareerstart.ie. a current cv should be sent along with your online application. the application closing date is 12th August. however, applications will be reviewed as they are received. offers will be issued from 1st July 2011 therefore early submission of your application is recommended. please note that there is a competitive selection process so the most suitable candidates will be accepted. candidates who are offered a place must complete registration by the closing date indicated, otherwise the offer will be withdrawn and the place offered to another candidate. CoNTACT uS fsi careerstart programme, c/o financial services ireland 84/86 lower baggot street, dublin 2 tel: application helpline on 0818 333 113 email: info@fsicareerstart.ie web: www.fsicareerstart.ie
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
Testimonials
"i think that i have been really lucky to get a placement with Gam. the training that they are providing is really comprehensive and my supervisor has weekly progress meetings with me to ensure that i am getting on all right and could not be more helpful. overall i think that the careerstart programme is excellent and very well run. i would have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone" Joe Moloney, Valuations and Settlements Administrator "The Career Start programme was definitely a great success for me. i know that i would not have been considered for a job at my current employer based on my cv so the work placement was critical in giving me access to show my skills and abilities" Catherine Watts
"Definitely an extremely valuable experience. I have friends that are extremely interested in this after hearing everything i've to say about it. well thought out programme with very valuable and useful information. thanks a million for giving me this opportunity, i tried my hardest and enjoyed every minute." Anonymous
"i'm absolutely delighted about getting a permanent position and am enjoying the job immensely. i'd also like to add that course has been of great benefit to me personally." Anonymous
"i am very pleased that i participated on the course and would like to thank all concerned for making it happen." Anonymous
"Gam fund management was delighted to participate in the careerstart programme and to give work placements to 5 of the participants. We found that the specialised industry certificates provided participants with a specific understanding of our sector". Fiona McAuley, hr Senior Manager
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
WhAT IS ThIS ProGrAMME ABouT? the professional certificate in international financial services introduces candidates to the key markets, products and financial risks in international financial services. it offers candidates a comprehensive grounding in the principal elements of the international financial services industry. this three module, level 7 qualification will provide candidates with an insight into the main areas of the international financial services industry and how each area within the industry interacts. it provides a detailed knowledge of products offered in the industry and the regulatory environment in which they are sold and in which financial service providers operate. it also explains the risks financial services firms face in the conduct of their business. on successful completion of this programme, candidates will be able to:
describe the financial services system, its markets, instruments (products and services) and participants; describe the competitive market for international financial products and services; describe the products and services offered to international financial services customers; recommend products and services that meet the needs of the international financial services customers; explain the risks facing international financial services providers in the conduct of their business.
WhAT lEArNING SuPPorTS ArE AVAIlABlE? when your registration has been processed, you will have access to the following learning supports for each module:
specifically written comprehensive and user-friendly study manual access to the online student centre (using your password which will be sent to you following registration), including: online learning plan, including module outline and study plan online student handbook online lecture and examination schedules lecture notes and handouts past examination papers secure online access to your examination results and correspondence lecturer contact through an email helpline weekly lectures per module to be held in dublin exam venues provided in cork, dublin and limerick - subject to adequate student demand.
your registration on the fsi careerstart programme covers all of the above supports and entry to the examination. ACCrEdITATIoN the professional certificate in international financial services is awarded on successful completion of an examination in each of the three modules `international financial services - products and services, `international financial services - risks and regulations, and `international financial markets. this programme is included as a level 7 qualification on the national framework of Qualifications (nfQ).
ProGrAMME dElIVEry lectures for the professional certificate in international financial services will be based in dublin and will take place one evening a week, from 6.15pm - 9.30pm.
If it is necessary to change any of these dates, as much notice as possible will be given. (At all times the Student Centre will show the most up-to-date information).
Syllabus Summary
Module Syllabus (this is a summary of the syllabus and not a full statement of content) International Financial Services - Products and Services
introduction to international financial services products and services cash management treasury trade securities funds customers for international financial services
FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
WhAT IS ThIS CourSE ABouT? the professional certificate in investment fund services is the benchmark qualification for those wishing to build their careers in the funds industry. the course covers material that is directly relevant to the day to day roles candidates can work in, providing an invaluable overview to each of the areas of the funds industry and how each area within the industry interacts. it provides a detailed knowledge of each of the key components of the funds industry including legal and regulatory aspects of investment funds, custody and registration and fund accounting. this course is offered in partnership with the irish funds industry association (ifia). this three-module, level 7 qualification is specifically aimed at those working in or seeking to work in the investment funds industry. on successful completion of this course, candidates will be able to:
explain the accounting and valuation aspects of investment funds and their application to investment/collective funds, the preparation of the accounting statements of funds and the calculation of the net asset value (nav); describe the role of the custodian in the investment funds industry; describe the principles, structure, legal requirements and investment strategies of the investment funds vehicles; illustrate how the regulatory bodies impact on fund listings and the differences in domiciling a fund in certain jurisdictions; outline the compliance and taxation requirements of the main non-irish fund administration jurisdictions.
WhAT lEArNING SuPPorTS ArE AVAIlABlE? when your registration has been processed, you will have access to the following learning supports for each module:
specifically written comprehensive and user-friendly study manuals access to the online student centre (using your password which will be sent to you following registration), including: online learning plan, including module outline and study plan online student handbook online lecture and examination schedule lecture notes and handouts past examination papers secure online access to your examination results and correspondence lecturer contact through an email helpline weekly lectures per module to be held in dublin revision weekend, held prior to examinations exam venues provided in cork, dublin and limerick - subject to adequate student demand.
your registration on the fsi careerstart programme covers all of the above supports and entry to the examination. ACCrEdITATIoN the professional certificate in investment fund services is awarded on successful completion of an examination in each of the three modules `legal and regulatory aspects of investment funds, `custody and registration and `fund accounting and valuation. this programme is included as a level 7 qualification on the national framework of Qualifications (nfQ).
ProGrAMME dElIVEry lectures for the professional certificate in investment fund services will be based in dublin and will take place one evening a week, from 6.15pm - 9.30pm.
If it is necessary to change any of these dates, as much notice as possible will be given. (At all times the Student Centre will show the most up-to-date information).
Syllabus Summary
Module legal and regulatory Aspects of Investment Funds
introduction to the irish legal system Key legal concepts of investment funds types of fund structures legal and regulatory environment of investment funds role of the financial regulator establishment of a fund role of the irish stock exchange legal requirements and investment strategies of funds domiciled outside ireland marketing of irish funds abroad
Syllabus (this is a summary of the syllabus and not a full statement of content)
role of the custodian custody services trade settlement and failed trades corporate actions securities lending overview steps involved and risk elements custodians role in derivatives cash management correspondent banking shareholder dealing and settlement netting, pooling and sweeping shareholder registration and compliance creation and liquidation of fund shares
role of Key parties to a fund types of fund investments fund valuation calculation of a net asset value accounting for corporate actions accounting for securities - equities, fixed interest money market instrument and derivatives discount verses fixed income securities amortisation and accretion fund expenses accounting for paid-in share capital financial statements international standards and financial statements fund controls importance of calculating an accurate nav
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FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
WhAT IS ThIS ProGrAMME ABouT? the university diploma in financial services is aimed at those who aspire to a management position in financial services and also offers a route to life-long learning. it is recognised in all sectors of the industry as a relevant qualification and is an excellent educational foundation for a management career in the industry. the programme comprises 12 modules delivered over a 12 month period, each with a separate 2-3 hour written examination at the end of the module. examinations will be held from January to september 2012. candidates should be aware that while this is a rewarding programme, it is challenging. ideally candidates will have prior experience of university or professional examinations or alternatively have considerable experience in this area. as modules run concurrently, commitment is required from the candidates as it is important for candidates to manage their studies accordingly. work placements will run concurrently with the programme. if you wish to apply for this programme, at the application stage you must choose from one of two industry specialist paths:
Path A: university diploma in financial services (including professional certificate in international financial services) Path B: university diploma in financial services (including professional certificate in investment funds services)
a further 10 credits will be available as accredited prior learning for those candidates completing the hetac level 7 certificate in management offered by the ibec management academy. 5 modules, or 25 credits, on the programme include fundamental business management skills. the remaining 2 modules of the diploma will be a relevant business language, details of which will be confirmed prior to programme commencement.
candidates who have accredited awards from other third level institutions might also be eligible for additional exemptions. those who are offered a place will receive further information on exemptions, but you should note that in order to obtain exemptions a transcript of results and associated course syllabus will be required at a minimum. ProGrAMME dElIVEry this programme will be delivered by:
webinars, online lectures available to access 24 hours a day, 7 days a week dublin based lectures for relevant modules
WhAT lEArNING SuPPorTS ArE AVAIlABlE? when your registration has been processed, you will have access to the following for each module:
specifically written comprehensive and user-friendly study manual access through the online student centre (using your password which will be sent to you following registration) to a wide-ranging suite of elearning resources: online learning plan, including module outline and study plan online student handbook webinars, online lectures (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from home or work) which cover module content, as well as study and examination skills past examination papers online examination schedule secure online access to your examination results and correspondence lecturer contact through an email helpline lectures (in relevant modules) to be held in dublin exam venues provided in cork, dublin and limerick - subject to adequate student demand.
of the 12 modules required to obtain the diploma, 9 are common to both paths. the remaining three will be dependent on which industry specialist path you choose. on successful completion of this qualification, candidates will be able to:
manage their own learning as the curriculum offers opportunities to broaden their knowledge across a wide range of financial services activities as well as providing the ability to engage in limited specialisation; describe the basic theories and practices underpinning the modules they study; evaluate relevant information and formulate strategies to resolve well-defined problems; communicate effectively with peers, supervisors and clients; undertake further study with a degree of autonomy.
WhAT ModulES CouNT ToWArdS ThE uNIVErSITy dIPloMA IN FINANCIAl SErVICES? the university diploma in financial services is awarded on successful attainment of 12 modules (60 ects (european credit transfer system) credits). five ects credits are attained on passing each module. it is not possible to compensate for poor performance in one module with good performance in another.
3 modules, or 15 credits, on the programme will be comprised of the credits achieved on the professional certificate in investment fund services or professional certificate in international financial services.
your registration on the fsi careerstart programme covers all of the above supports and entry to the examination. ACCrEdITATIoN the university diploma in financial services is awarded on successful completion of 60 ects credits. this programme is included as a level 7 qualification on the national framework of Qualifications (nfQ).
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Path 3A
Professional Certificate in International Financial Services - 3 modules (15 ects) see pages 7 - 8 for details
Path 3B
Credits
or
Professional Certificate in Investment Fund Services - 3 modules (15 ects) see pages 9 - 10 for details
15
+
10 ects transfer credits (accredited prior learning) - awarded to candidates successfully completing the Certificate in Management see page 14 for details 10
+
Business Management Skills
see page 13 for lecture/examination details 25
Module
Macroeconomics
syllabus (this is a summary of the syllabus and not a full statement of content)
economic Growth inflation international trade employment national income money and banking monetary and fiscal policy balance of payments monetary union
Module syllabus (this is a summary of the syllabus and not a full statement of content)
Microeconomics
overview of economic systems resource allocation price, demand, supply elasticity competition markets
Banking
the financial services industry financial intermediation risks of financial intermediation a balance sheet view of risk mangement
+
languages 2 modules (10 ects)
10
Total Credits
60
12
If it is necessary to change any of these dates, as much notice as possible will be given. (At all times the Student Centre will show the most up-to-date information).
or
If it is necessary to change any of these dates, as much notice as possible will be given. (At all times the Student Centre will show the most up-to-date information).
+
lectures/Webinars and Examinations
Module Microeconomics An Introduction to Financial Accounting Information Information for Management decision Making Macroeconomics Banking language Module 1 language Module 2 Certificate in Management lectures / Webinars webinars webinars Exam date and Time exam: 7th January 2012 (3.00pm - 5.00pm) re-registration: 26th may 2012 (9.30am - 11.30am) exam: 14th January 2012 (9.30am - 11.30am) re-registration: 26th may 2012 (12.30pm - 2.30pm) Exam Structure written, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration:120 minutes calculation and short, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration: 120 minutes webinars exam: 12th may 2012 (3.00pm - 5.00pm) re-registration: 8th september 2012 (3.00pm - 5.00pm) exam: 19th may 2012 (9.30am - 11.30am) re-registration: 15th september 2012 (9.30am - 11.30am) exam: 22nd september 2012 (9.30am 11.30am) re-registration: 19th January 2013 (3.00pm 5.00pm) exam: 8th september 2012 (9.30am 11.30am) re-registration: 12th January 2013 (3.00pm 5.00pm) lectures lectures oct - feb exam: 15th september 2012 (3.00pm 5.00pm) re-registration: 19th January 2013 (9.30am 11.30am) exam: 2nd march 2012 (10.00am - 1.00pm) calculation and short, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration: 120 minutes webinars lectures and webinars lectures written, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration:120 minutes written, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration:120 minutes written, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration:120 minutes written, essay-style questions passmark: 50% duration:120 minutes exam and continuous assessment
If it is necessary to change any of these dates, as much notice as possible will be given. (At all times the Student Centre will show the most up-to-date information).
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FSI CareerStart
Gateway to a career in International Financial Services
CourSE PurPoSE the purpose of this programme is to develop candidates managerial and leadership skills so that they can become more efficient and effective at work. to achieve this, the programme emphasis is on the development of the candidates people management, leadership, interpersonal, financial and legal skills. ProGrAMME oBJECTIVES at the end of this programme candidates will have:
developed an awareness of how individual personalities, attitudes and perceptions impact on organisational performance become more effective at motivating people develop an understanding of their own leadership style and how it impacts on others develop an understanding of the key pieces of employment legislation and the practical issues surrounding their implementation an understanding of the fundamental principles involved in the production of company accounts, and develop a capacity for interpretation and analysis of the data contained therein in a meaningful way become more effective at managing performance and addressing poor performance improved their communication, decision making and problem solving skills understand the steps involved in a formal strategic planning process and how to develop a framework of analysis to identify central issues and problems in business scenarios become more effective at managing staff through change
lECTurES ANd ExAMINATIoN lectures span 16 full days (fridays) from mid-october 2011 to mid-february 2012. this programme is assessed by a combination of closed book examination and continuous assessment as follows:
APProACh these modules will be delivered in an open, empathetic, participative, high energy, focused, practical results oriented way. the lecturer will utilize a wide range of learning methods such as class room based lectures and discussion, presentations from guest speakers from well known irish organisations, role plays, exercises, case studies, video, magazine and newspaper clips.
Topic module 1 organisational behaviour employment law finance paper case study team project learning Journal
Assessment exam: 2nd march 2012 (10.00am 1.00pm) assignment (2,000 words) assignment (2,000 words) assignment (1,500 words) assignment (2,000 words)
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a qualification, be it one of the sector specific skills or the professional and business skills as outlined in earlier sections of this brochure, is an essential factor in securing employment in the international financial services sector. however, competition for jobs within the sector is intense so additional attributes are also a critical component in getting a job. the fsi careerstart programme recognises that industry readiness skills are a vital component of any jobseekers skill-set and for this reason we have developed this programme to include either:
(a) a work placement for 3-6 months, while candidates continue on their educational path or (b) industry mentoring to develop individual career and skills enhancement strategies.
work placements are limited and will be assigned based on a match between the candidate and the company. companies may require entrance interviews before offering work placements. INduSTry MENTorING the aim of the mentoring programme is to give candidates the opportunity to gain further knowledge through one-to-one meetings with people already working in the sector. through a number of mentoring meetings the candidate has the opportunity to
expand their personal network and gain insight into the sector Gain support in the transition to a new role Gain personal support, encouragement and confidence building access positive and constructive feedback and explore employment options identify career goals and personal action plans Get feedback on cvs and help in completing application forms understand the vocabulary and insight into work in the sector understand the successful career strategies that have been used by others acquire new perspectives, ideas and development options discover how existing skills can be applied to the ifsc
previous programme candidates felt that industry readiness skills led to significant improvements in self esteem, confidence, drive and motivation, helping them to continue or re-start job search activities and re-enter the workplace. to offer this valuable skills component of the fsi careerstart programme requires collaboration and commitment from many leading ifsc companies. companies who have previously participated in the fsi careerstart programme include:
caceis bank luxembourg - dublin branch citco fund services citibank Gam fund management Jp morgan state street
mentoring supports resilience, motivation and potential by providing an opportunity for candidates to discuss their personal career development with someone who is not a member of family or close friend. the dialogue can bring new insight, perspective and ideas and make a valuable addition to career change and development. mentoring brings mutual benefits to both mentor and mentee. people working in companies who act as mentors also gain through involvement in the process. mentoring is now an accepted practice in many companies as part of ongoing professional development techniques.
Work PlACEMENTS work placements equip candidates with practical experience and provide candidates with a valuable opportunity to apply the academic aspects of the course to real life work situations and get the full benefit from the combined learning experience. previous programme candidates found that work placements combined with sector/business skills was one of the most rewarding aspects of the fsi careerstart programme. having a work placement with a leading ifsc company in addition to technical skills gained, provides candidates with a valuable addition to their cv one - that opens the door to that vital job interview. the ability to talk with confidence at interview about their experience as well as their skills is crucial to securing a job offer.
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CoNTACT uS fsi careerstart programme c/o financial services ireland 84/86 lower baggot street, dublin 2 tel: email: web: application helpline on 0818 333 113 info@fsicareerstart.ie www.fsicareerstart.ie