CISI launches in Australia & New Zealand with AI push

The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment has launched in Australia and New Zealand after transferring 5,000 members from the Financial Services Institute of Australasia at the start of the year.

The London-based professional body is stepping up its focus on the region through member services, professional education and a new advisory structure. The expansion also includes rolling out artificial intelligence education for finance professionals in Australia and New Zealand.

CISI's learning platform offers more than 2,000 resources, including region-specific e-learning. These include refresher modules on private credit, digital assets and cryptocurrencies, and fintech solutions and financing for the agricultural sector.

Members in the region will also be able to access the organisation's Certificate in Ethical Artificial Intelligence and a four-part virtual workshop series on AI governance in financial services. According to CISI, the certificate has attracted more than 7,000 registrations across more than 60 countries.

James Paterson, Country Head, Australia & New Zealand, CISI, said: "Seeing our global network expand with dedicated professionals who embody the highest standards of ethics and excellence is a testament to the strength of the sector in this region. We are deeply committed to bringing our new members more opportunities to connect, collaborate and learn, with an exciting line-up of in-person events and initiatives already under way."

The organisation has also set up an Australia & New Zealand Advisory Council as part of its regional build-out. David R Cox FCSI, Partner, PwC Australia, and Chair of the newly established ANZ Advisory Council, said the council would help ensure the local market retained a strong voice within the wider body.

He said: "Following the transition of FINSIA members to CISI, we have seen enthusiastic engagement in this region. Members now have access to CISI's global network, internationally recognised professional designations, expanded learning and thought leadership, and broader opportunities to connect with peers. The Australia & New Zealand Advisory Council ensures our market continues to have a strong voice."

AI and ethics

Ethics is a central theme in the institute's qualifications and continuing professional development, and the regional strategy places that alongside AI education and inclusion. Its work builds on collaboration with FINSIA to help practitioners in Australia and New Zealand understand the ethical issues linked to the deployment of AI.

Manjula Shaw, Member of Inclusion and Belonging Committee, CISI, said: "We need a spectrum of age, gender, special needs and diverse backgrounds to offer insight, input and guidance on how CISI builds out its portfolio of events, courses and certificates. I'm excited to see CISI actively investing in diversity of thought and making this a priority, alongside keeping conversations relevant, for instance on AI, and encouraging participation and interaction between members."

The institute said regional members would also be able to draw on a wider international network of more than 57,000 members worldwide, as well as a mentoring scheme linking more than 1,000 mentors and mentees in over 50 countries. Additional member services include professional forums, a jobs board, membership designations and a route to chartered status.

Michael Block FCSI, Professor, University of Technology Sydney, cited that broader international reach as one of the attractions of the body's presence in the market.

He said: "I joined the CISI because I see the great benefit it's already offering this region. There really isn't an equivalent here. The organisation offers incredible opportunities through education, networking, podcasts and other media, access to industry, and the ability to tap into a broader international perspective. I'm excited to inspire younger people to become members, to offer mentorship and expertise, and to give back to the community. And, as learning never stops, I'm excited to continue to expand my understanding and expertise with my peers."

Regional presence

The launch in Australia and New Zealand marks a deeper push into a market where CISI had already been building links through education, networking and media activity. The organisation describes itself as a global educational charity and professional body for the securities and investment profession, with 57,000 members in more than 100 countries.

Its qualifications and examinations are aimed at people working in, or seeking careers in, financial planning, wealth management and capital markets. Former FINSIA members can join CISI and receive recognition for their previous credentials.

Tracy Vegro OBE, Chief Executive Officer, CISI, said: "Our members are at the heart of everything we do. By listening to the needs and ambitions of our Australian and New Zealand community, we can champion the highest standards of professionalism, cultivate meaningful dialogue and provide thought leadership that makes a real difference. The Regulators Forum is an important step in bringing our profession closer to the people shaping its future, strengthening understanding, trust and excellence across financial services."