The CII pension qualification is a great option for anyone who wants to become a specialist in this area. The CII J05 Exam: Pension Income Options is the final of three exams you need to pass to gain the qualification, and it is an exam that really puts your knowledge of the various types of pension income options to the test. With the current focus on pension scheme funding and the deficit reduction payments, many of our clients are looking to reduce their liabilities. For many trustees this means seeking ways to reduce their scheme's membership (through buyouts, buy-ins, enhanced transfer values and so on). I have been involved in a number of these projects and was keen to develop my knowledge of these areas, hence my decision to pursue the Pension Income Options qualification. CII J05 Exam: Pension Income Options Qualification Success Story by Alison Webb, Executive Development Consultant Having spent 4 years in financial planning I decided to start studying for the CII exams. I started with AF01, then J01 and completed my Dip PFS in 2013. After taking a career break to have a baby I decided it was time to get back into work. With my wealth of experience in financial planning, working for a bank as an adviser and being an associate for a financial planner, I decided to look at joining a financial planning firm, as I wanted more flexibility and freedom with my day-to-day work. Interviewing for the job was straightforward, and after meeting the directors I was offered the role. The interviewers were impressed with the fact that I had completed most of the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, but they were also interested in my plans to continue with my qualifications, namely AF7 and J07.
I did not complete these exams whilst interviewing, but this did not impact on them offering me the role as they were confident that I would be able to do so in reasonable time. They were also aware that if I needed additional support they could provide this to me.
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