The firm, which recently opened a new office in Botswana, launched the academy in January with just 10 recruits, and has now decided to expand the programme from January 2017 by giving 32 graduates the chance to train as a financial adviser.
This is because of the success of the first intake, eight of whom are set to graduate by the end of the year, Kieron McRae, Carrick’s business development director told International Adviser.
“As with any initiative, there are lessons one learns, and starting with a relatively small group has allowed us to refine and expand the programme for 2017,” he said.
After leaving the academy, the graduate will go on to pursue careers as advisers in one of Carrick’s offices based in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Mauritius.
Invictus programme
The Invictus Training Academy’s programme, which lasts between 12 to 18 months, allows those enrolled to work towards becoming certified financial planners, as well as completing their regulatory exams with the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments (CISI).
The course has been designed to mimic an academic year, explained Rashay Makan, managing director of the Carrick Academy, with students combining on-the-job experience with professional qualifications.
“We believe it is vitally important that our graduates understand both of these elements as they are core fundamentals of any wealth manager’s future business,” he said.
The programme also offers a “top student” the chance to complete an internship in Guernsey and the Isle of Man with a leading product provider, said the firm.
In addition, the curriculum also includes soft skills with modules in presentation and public speaking, life and basic management skills, planning and leadership, as well as self-study programmes covering topics from emotional intelligence, stress management, to motivation.
Changing ‘DIY legacy’
Carrick’s chief executive Craig Featherby, said: “Traditionally, this industry has not provided much in the form of structured support or development programmes, which has resulted in a bit of a ‘DIY’ legacy in the industry.
“The academy’s goal is to channel and reinforce the drive and independent motivation so often found in successful financial advisers, while giving them much-needed support, professional development and exposure within their field of choice.
“At Carrick, we live and breathe investments. We understand the universal principle of sowing something now to reap a reward later.”
