CFA Society Sri Lanka recently hosted an inspiring fireside chat and networking event titled “The CFA Program Advantage: Pathways to Career Excellence.” The event highlighted the transformative power of the CFA qualification in advancing careers in the finance industry.
Chanakya Dissanayake, CFA, Managing Director and Head of Delivery Strategic Initiatives at Acuity Knowledge Partners, delivered the keynote address, sharing personal insights into how the CFA Program has played a pivotal role in his career. He explained how it equipped him with the knowledge, skills, and professional credibility needed to excel in the global finance industry.
A Career Transformed Through the CFA Program
Reflecting on his early days, Chanakya recalled registering for the CFA program in 2002 when he began his career as a capital markets analyst. “I was fortunate to be guided by some of Sri Lanka’s leading finance professionals,” he shared. Inspired by their advice, he pursued the rigorous CFA curriculum while working as a financial journalist, gaining unique exposure to the financial markets.
His career trajectory took off when he joined DFCC Stockbrokers, where he applied the knowledge gained from the CFA program. By 2005, he had earned the prestigious CFA charter, setting the foundation for a stellar career at Acuity Knowledge Partners (formerly known as Amber Research), the largest CFA talent recruiter in Sri Lanka. “Almost 40% of all CFA charterholders in Sri Lanka have worked with us at some point,” he proudly noted.
Global Impact and Local Growth
Chanakya made a significant contribution to Acuity Knowledge Partners in its evolution into a global enterprise with over $300 million in annual revenue and more than 6,000 employees worldwide. He credits a significant part of this success to leveraging Sri Lanka’s CFA-qualified talent. “The availability of highly skilled CFA professionals played a crucial role in our decision to build a major part of our business in Sri Lanka,” he remarked.
Why the CFA Program Stands Out
Chanakya underscored the CFA program’s unique strengths:
Comprehensive Curriculum: “It covers all investable asset classes in depth,” he explained, noting how the program’s extensive focus on fixed-income and credit research helped him lead multi-million-dollar global projects.
Global Recognition: “The CFA designation is a globally accepted standard,” he stressed. “Whether you’re in developed or emerging markets, it gives you instant credibility and opens doors everywhere.”
Practical Knowledge: Unlike traditional academic programs, the CFA curriculum offers real-world insights into investment decision-making, capital raising, and risk management. “You can’t just ‘game’ the exams; you need a solid understanding of the material,” he emphasized.
Relevant Updates: The program continuously evolves to include emerging areas like ESG and alternative investments, ensuring its relevance in today’s dynamic financial environment.
A Message to Aspiring Finance Professionals
Chanakya’s message to future CFA candidates is clear: “The CFA program is demanding but rewarding. The knowledge you gain will guide you throughout your career, whether you’re managing investments, raising capital, or pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.”
As Sri Lanka continues to strengthen its financial services sector, the CFA qualification remains a beacon of excellence, preparing professionals for success in the global financial industry.
