Dorset based Felicity Hooper MCSI has achieved top marks in not one but two high-level finance exams.

Felicity, who works with Investec Wealth & Investment Ltd in Bournemouth, recently attended the Mansion House, London Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) annual Awards ceremony where she received her two Awards for highest marks in Global Operations Management and the Diploma in Investment Operations.

Felicity’s exceptional progression through the CISI Operations Qualification Pathway has been recognised and supported in the CISI member magazine The Review over the past few years. She featured in the July 2016 edition as the winner of the Advanced Global Securities Operations level 5 award; she was also on the front cover of The Review’s anniversary edition in Q2 April 2017 as an “outstanding young professional” to look out for in ‘The future of finance’. This prediction has now proved correct with her outstanding achievement of the highest level award in this qualifications pathway.

Simon Roche ACSI of JP Morgan, President of the CISI South Coast branch committee said: “The talent, skills and commitment demonstrated by Felicity during her self-development professional journey has been outstanding. It’s thanks also to the collective community network of her firm, family, friends, teachers and trainers which have been part of her inspirational success.

“The South Coast is a hub for developing talent in the financial services and technology professions, nurtured by the international firms based in the area. Felicity’s recognition on a global level is a bellwether of the region’s burgeoning talent pool.”

Discussing her achievement, Felicity said: “The Global Operations Management exam covers a wide range of topics, so it requires a broad industry knowledge. Having this knowledge has improved my understanding of how other areas of the business impact on my role, this gives me confidence and allows me to be more effective.

“I would advise prospective candidates to put the time in, it is worth it! Don’t just rely on the workbook as the exam requires an ability to analyse and to apply a management perspective to the topics covered. You will need to be aware of the current industry relevant topics, so read relevant publications such as the CISI Review.

“Some aspects of the exams covered topics where I didn’t have practical experience. I found talking to colleagues gave me a good insight into these areas. I also attended training sessions with a CISI training partner, being able to discuss aspects of the material was invaluable.

“Now I’ve completed the Diploma I’m focused on maintaining my knowledge and keeping up to date with industry changes. I find using the CISI professional refreshers really useful in maintaining my CPD, as the courses on offer are relevant and up to date.

“I would definitely recommend CISI qualifications to others as they offer high standard, benchmark qualifications that not only aid in enhancing knowledge but help with career development in the operations area.”