Openwork, which has more than 3,600 financial advisers in its network, has launched a programme called Academy Fast Track, which targets individuals considering financial advice as a second career.
There are 10 candidates in the first intake, including a mother of three returning to work having previously been in sales, a former England youth rugby player, a PhD holder and a qualified chef.
Intensive training
Through the programme, Openwork member firms have the opportunity to bring a person into their business and develop them into a fully qualified adviser through an intensive but structured programme.
The training involves courses, study days, Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) exams, development workshops, knowledge and skills training alongside practical experience gained by working at sponsor firms.
Once the programme is completed, candidates will possess a recognised industry qualification and be a wealth licensed adviser.
It is anticipated that candidates will achieve their licence to advise within six months and reach diploma level in 12 months, with the training part-funded by Openwork.
Mike Morrow, wealth and platform director at Openwork, said: “Openwork is committed to expanding the capacity of our member firms and making sure they are better able to service the significant unmet need for financial advice.
“The Academy Fast Track will provide participating member firms with conscientious, newly qualified advisers with outside experience, whilst offering the selected candidates excellent career prospects in the financial advice industry,” he said.
