Ascot Lloyd has launched an adviser academy designed to train a new generation of IFAs.
The Adviser Academy is aimed at people from various backgrounds who are returning to the job market, looking for a career change, or have recently left school and wish to start their careers in financial planning.
The course will involve an intensive training programme lasting up to two and a half years, during which they will achieve the necessary qualifications and skills required to become a fully qualified financial adviser.
Once the training programme has been completed trainee advisers will be supported by Ascot Lloyd to continue their personal development and achieve chartered status.
Richard Dunbabin, chief executive of Ascot Lloyd, said: “We are looking for individuals who have the potential to develop into the financial advisers that today’s challenging financial landscape calls for.
“Industry regulation has driven significant consolidation accompanied by improved professional standards, and we will look for the high calibre candidates that have the ability to thrive in the new world of financial advice.
“This project is an exciting development for Ascot Lloyd and underlines our commitment to bringing new blood into the industry and training the next generation of IFAs.
“It will enable us to deliver a better service to our clients by expanding the skills base of our staff, while meeting growing demand for independent financial advice.”
After an initial telephone interview, shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the first assessment day at Ascot Lloyd’s London office on 1 March.
This will provide them with an opportunity to demonstrate their skills, meet the team and participate in a short interview.
In November the Department for Education approved the financial advice apprenticeship after an application led by the Personal Finance Society.
The scheme offers employers up to £9,600 in financial assistance towards the training of a financial adviser.
