Scottish Widows customer services technical executive Michael Smith has gained his Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) Investment Operations Certificate (IOC).

Mr Smith’s award came after he successfully completed his chosen third unit of the qualification, Risk in Financial Services.

The IOC (formerly IAQ) qualification has been developed to enhance the knowledge and skills of those working in the administration and operations areas of the financial services industry.

Of his achievement he said: ‘Gaining the certificate was the culmination of two years of study, during which I was mentored by managing director Juan Clarke. Without his weekly tutoring sessions I would have really struggled but I’m now able to consider taking one of the CISI’s level six diplomas, possibly in investment compliance, as it would be a good fit with my current role.’

Mr Clarke, who is one of only a few investment professionals in the Island to hold CISI Chartered Fellow status, has been delivering CISI coaching for a number of years. He said: ‘The Lloyds Banking Group, to which Scottish Widows belongs, is keen to support continuing professional development and help drive up standards in an industry where benchmark qualifications are essential. For my part I always welcome the opportunity to share my experience with colleagues looking to deepen their financial services knowledge and advance their careers. Michael is to be congratulated on his achievement not only in passing the Investment Operations Certificate but also in gaining the stand-alone certificate in Risk in Financial Services.  I wish him every success in taking his studies to another level.’

Photo - Scottish Widows Michael Smith, left, receives his CISI investment operations certificate from managing director Juan Clarke.