By Lora Benson
With Chartered Week running 23–27 February, the global educational charity and professional body, the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), is highlighting the powerful role that Chartered status plays in fostering high standards of professionalism and trust. Helping professionals adapt and grow at every stage of their careers in financial services is vital, particularly as opportunities become more global and artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more widespread.
Financial services is a global business, and CISI has a strong track record of collaborating with fellow chartered and professional bodies to raise standards and create seamless pathways across international financial services markets. This makes Chartered status a valuable, recognisable asset for individuals from London to Dubai and Sydney. Increasingly, this interoperability is vital, empowering effortless navigation of roles, jurisdictions and specialisms while retaining full recognition of expertise and lifelong learning.
In an age of AI, Chartered status also offers consumers much-needed reassurance, as human-led mastery of tools, underpinned by an ethical edge, is one of the hallmarks of the designation.
Tracy Vegro OBE, CISI CEO, said: “Globally, an individual Charter is recognised as a huge achievement and the peak of professionalism. It demonstrates to customers and wider society that a firm or individual is at the top of the profession.
“Trust for consumers is important when considering AI and how technology without ethics can destroy trust. CISI Chartered status signals to consumers and clients that they can not only trust an individual’s expertise, but that the individual acts with integrity, abiding by the Royal Charter, Bye-laws and regulations and upholding the CISI’s high standards as published in our professional Code of Conduct.
“Holding a CISI Charter shows a commitment to lifelong learning and a dedication to continuing professional development. We congratulate all of our members across the globe who have achieved this pinnacle of professionalism and welcome and encourage those embarking on their journey to Chartership.”
Hendrik van Dyk CFP™ Chartered MCSI (left), financial planner at Fowler, said: “We are incredibly proud to have been granted CISI Chartered Firm™ status – a recognition that reflects our unwavering commitment to the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and excellence in the financial services industry. This achievement not only validates our team’s dedication but also strengthens our promise to deliver trusted, client-focused advice. We aim to continue fostering a culture of ethical leadership and continuous improvement, ensuring we provide the best possible outcomes for our clients and the communities we serve.”
Andrew Booth CFP™ Chartered MCSI, founder of Nine Wealth Management (right), said: “Achieving CISI Chartered Firm™ status is a significant milestone and the culmination of many years of dedicated work. It places us among the elite financial planning practices in the UK and clearly reflects our ongoing commitment to excellence.
“It represents our focus on doing what is right for our clients and affirms our promise to deliver the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and client care, providing peace of mind and confidence in the financial journey ahead.”
Catherine McGuinness CBE MCSI, a member of the CISI Board, said: “We should not underestimate just how significant the UK’s Chartered professional education offer is as an export. The international demand we see at CISI for high-quality, Chartered-level learning and standards shows that the UK remains a global benchmark for trusted expertise in financial services. By supporting Chartered professionals worldwide, CISI strengthens and projects the best of the UK’s values-based approach to finance onto the world stage.”