James Cooper receiving his award from Sir Alan Yarrow, Chartered FCSI(Hon), Lord Mayor Locum Tenens
Why did you choose to take the Diploma in Corporate Finance?I wanted to gain a better understanding of the theory behind corporate finance. The partners at Lovewell Blake were also supportive of my undertaking the Diploma via the study route, so that we could promote this to future members of the team. I believe that having this qualification adds credibility when advising clients on CF related matters.
What advice would you give to someone taking the qualifications?My advice would be to attend the BPP Professional Education [one of CISI’s Accredited Training Partners] course and then set aside a few hours a week to work through practical examples in the run up to the exam. I also found it useful reading case studies on how public companies have executed M&A activity in past real life situations.
How did you study for the exams? What tips do you have for other candidates taking these exams? Did you face any particular challenges?The exams were challenging and very time-pressured. The tuition centre provided a good overview of the course and I had to supplement this with a lot of home study. I worked through the study manual and undertook a lot of case studies, supplied by BPP. Whenever I got the time I also read the Financial Times or The Economist.
Would you recommend the Diploma in Corporate Finance to others?I would recommend this qualification to anyone who is already working in corporate finance or is looking to enter into a career in corporate finance. The course syllabus is very relevant to my day-to-day role of advising clients on matters such as mergers, acquisitions, disposals, management buyouts, raising debt and equity finance and business valuations. The qualification has really helped my understanding of these processes.
See the full list of award winners
Key features of the Diploma in Corporate Finance
- Offers a progressive study pathway – the Certificate in Corporate Finance is the first step in the CISI's corporate finance study pathway and offers access to the higher-level Diploma.
- Recognised by the FCA – the Certificate in Corporate Finance features on the Financial Conduct Authority’s Appropriate Qualification Tables.
- Suitable for a wide range of corporate finance staff; no previous qualifications are required.
- Free CISI Student membership – become associated with a Chartered professional body and take advantage of an extensive range of benefits.
- Free ICAEW Corporate Finance Faculty Membership – online support and guidance to maintain expertise and leadership is available through the ICAEW Corporate Finance Faculty.
- MCSI designatory letters.