The CFA Society of the UK has announced the launch of the Certificate in Impact Investing, a qualification aimed at investment professionals seeking a comprehensive introduction to the fast-growing field of impact investing.
Developed by an expert panel, the certificate is a self-study course requiring a recommended 130 hours of study, with a syllabus covering:
Impact investment philosophy, strategy and implementation;
Asset classes and products in private and public markets;
Impact selection, measurement, management, monitoring and reporting.
The Society writes that the structure of the course will ensure that all candidates develop a clear understanding of the shape and size of the market, as well as gaining the skills needed to implement impact strategies, including how to develop theories of change and measurement frameworks.
Candidates will have 12 months from starting the course to sit the exam. Upon completion, successful candidates will be awarded the Certificate in Impact Investing.
The Certificate in Impact Investing is the latest qualification to be launched by CFA UK, following the Certificate in Climate & Investing and the Certificate in ESG Investing.
CFA UK’s Co-Chairs of the Certificate in Impact Investing Panel, Rebecca Macdonald, Managing Director, Head of Investment Management, Big Society Capital and Evita Chiang Zanuso, Head of Strategic Partnerships, Katapult Foundation, say:
“Impact investing seeks to create real world positive outcomes for people, places and the planet in contrast to ESG which largely focuses on risk factors and performance within a portfolio.
“Impact investments can take countless forms and come in many different shapes and sizes, but the framework that underpins impact investing remains consistent. As client demand for positive impact alongside financial return increases, investment professionals need to respond accordingly to understand the discipline, its application and the different ways it can be delivered.
“It has been a privilege to work with a talented team of investment professionals to develop this qualification which we know will be a key milestone in the further development and growth of impact investing more generally.”
