Openwork launches latest adviser training programme

Openwork launches latest adviser training programme
Openwork is embarking on the next stage of its programme to help member firms build succession planning into their practices after successfully taking more than 40 candidates through its adviser training academy since launch in 2014.
The Openwork Ocademy programme gives the network’s practices an opportunity to bring a carefully selected individual into their business and develop them into a fully-qualified mortgage or pensions and investment adviser.^[1]
The programme provides a structured approach for anyone seeking to begin a career as a financial adviser. Candidates can include university graduates, new recruits with no previous industry experience or qualifications, or administrators who would like to move to an advice role.
Entry to the programme is based on candidate nominations submitted by practice principals and a one-day central Openwork assessment event. Successful assessment leads to delegate status and an initial induction course followed by a series of centralised study days and development workshops with local examination sittings.
Since the first Ocademy induction event in October 2014, 14 candidates have achieved full Cemap qualification and 27 have achieved full DipFA qualification. Experience of running several intake groups and feedback from delegates and their host practices has helped to evolve the structure of the programme, including adoption of CII qualifications, taking effect from the September 2016 intake group.
Commenting, Mark Duckworth, Openwork CEO, says: “The aim of the Ocademy programme is for delegates to graduate from the programme equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to become a valuable member of an advisory business, delivering high quality outcomes for clients whilst developing a rewarding career. We are very pleased with the Ocademy’s progress since launch and look forward to taking the next intake of candidates through the programme as we assist our practices in their efforts to develop the next generation of advisers.”
[1] Openwork also offers a separate programme of support for advisers who wish to pursue a route to chartered status