A Guernsey-based investment manager at Brooks Macdonald, one of the largest independent investment managers in the Channel Islands, has completed a key wealth and investment exam to give the firm a clean sweep of senior level investment qualifications in the jurisdiction.
Andy Alford recently passed the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) Level 6 Certificate in Private Client Investment Advice and Management (PCIAM), and his success means that the firm’s entire team of investment managers in Guernsey is now at least ‘level 6’ qualified.
The PCIAM qualification is intended to enable practitioners to demonstrate a good understanding of the principles of private client investment advice, within the context of the current regulatory environment. As a ‘level 6’ qualification, it is considered a key route to obtaining Chartered Wealth Manager status and in ensuring compliance with the standards set out for investment professionals under the Guernsey Financial Advice Standards.
With more than ten years’ experience in financial services, Andy joined Brooks Macdonald in 2016 and is responsible for managing discretionary private client and institutional assets. He has previously worked in executing deals across a wide range of asset classes, as well as foreign exchange and money market trading.
As well as now holding the CISI Level 6 PCIAM Certificate, Andy also holds the Investment Management Certificate (IMC), and is a member of the CISI.
Commenting on his success, Andy said:
“I am thrilled to have successfully completed this qualification, which has helped broaden my understanding of investment principles, risk, taxation and planning. Throughout my professional development, I’ve received great support from the Guernsey team and I’m now looking forward to strengthening relationships both locally and Internationally with existing professional advisers and clients as well as building new relationships.”
Mark O’Connor, Investment Director, International at Brooks Macdonald, added:
“Here in the Channel Islands, Brooks Macdonald has a strong track record in supporting talented investment professionals with their career progression. I’m really pleased for Andy, who has shown real drive throughout his professional development programme. He will undoubtedly continue to make a valuable contribution to our investment management team, whilst the fact that the whole team can collectively demonstrate such high levels of investment advice should give clients much confidence.”