In the last issue of The Analyst, we referred to the Toronto CFA Society member survey and focus groups that we conducted in late 2009 and early 2010. In this issue I’d like to share some of our findings with you. The membership was divided into three segments based on how long each member has been a charterholder (Junior < 5 years, Intermediate 5 – 10 years, Senior > 10 years). While each of these three groups has different needs, five core areas were repeated throughout and the society is working hard to achieve these:

• Programming – generally positive comments but there were some areas for improvement. This is the key focus area for the society and we have committed significant additional resources to expanding the range and scope of programs
• Employer outreach – members suggested that we do more to create awareness regarding the value of the designation among HR departments and recruiters – and we will
• Advocacy and brand awareness – improved visibility. We are considering practical ways to improve, or at least to publicize, our advocacy efforts and to raise awareness of the CFA brand
• Leveraging technology – to offer more programming remotely to those who cannot attend events due to time or geographic constraints. Efforts in this regard are also in process at the society
• Career management – job postings plus soft-skills programming and networking opportunities

Secondly, I would like to refer you to the article on page 10 discussing the new Global Body of Investment Knowledge (GBIK)–a comprehensive outline of knowledge for the investment profession. We were honoured that CFA Institute chose Toronto for its public launch. This is the culmination of over two years’ hard work by CFA Institute’s Education Advisory Committee (EAC), which was charged with the responsibility of ensuring that the GBIK and the Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) remain relevant to the investment profession as well as reflect a global perspective.

This is my last letter as President of Toronto CFA Society as my term ends on 31 August 2010. Nancy Hoi Bertrand will have the pleasure of writing the September 2010 President’s letter. A big thank you to the dedicated staff and volunteers of the society who make this organization so special–the benchmark that all CFA societies can only strive to emulate.