Course Overview This Personal Assistant (PA) course is designed to provide learners with essential skills and knowledge to excel in a variety of administrative roles. Covering everything from business communication to organisational skills, this course ensures learners are equipped to manage office duties efficiently, support executives, and contribute to the smooth running of an organisation. By completing this course, learners will gain a solid understanding of the core functions of a PA, enabling them to confidently take on responsibilities in any professional setting. Course Description The course delves into key areas including business telephone etiquette, managing travel arrangements, organising meetings, and developing effective communication skills. Learners will explore the nuances of record-keeping, minute-taking, and scheduling, essential for ensuring a well-structured office environment. With a strong emphasis on time management, organisational skills, and business writing, this course prepares learners to confidently manage multiple tasks and responsibilities in fast-paced work environments. By the end, learners will have developed the ability to enhance productivity and support executive operations effectively. Course Modules Module 01: Introduction to Personal Assistant Module 02: Business Telephone Skills Module 03: Representing Your Boss and Company Module 04: Mail Services and Shipping Module 05: Travel Arrangements Module 06: Organising Meetings and Conferences Module 07: Time Management Module 08: Record Keeping and Filing Systems Module 09: Business Writing Skills Module 10: Organisational Skills Module 11: Communication Skills Module 12: Customer Service Module 13: Effective Planning and Scheduling Module 14: Invoicing/Petty Cash Module 15: Introduction to Minute Writing Module 16: Preparation for Minute Taking Module 17: The Meeting Structure Module 18: Minute Meeting, Decision and Action Module 19: Roles and Responsibility of Minute Taker Module 20: Tips for Minute Taking Module 21: Technology in Minute Taking Module 22: Building Confidence (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to enhance their administrative skills. Professionals aiming to advance their career as a Personal Assistant. Beginners with an interest in office management and administrative roles. Anyone interested in developing organisational and communication skills. Career Path Personal Assistant Executive Assistant Administrative Assistant Office Manager Office Administrator Executive Support Specialist
Course Overview This advanced-level Project Management Level 7 course offers comprehensive training designed to develop strategic thinking, leadership acumen, and organisational proficiency. Covering the essential principles of professional project delivery, the course aligns with international frameworks such as PMBOK and PMI standards, giving learners a solid foundation in high-level project management methodologies. From global project execution to risk and quality management, participants will gain the skills to oversee complex initiatives, manage cross-functional teams, and navigate dynamic business environments. Emphasis is placed on critical areas such as change management, performance evaluation, and crisis response. By the end of the course, learners will be prepared to assume leadership roles in project-driven environments across diverse industries, demonstrating competency in managing time, resources, stakeholders, and strategic outcomes with confidence and clarity. Course Description This Level 7 course delves into advanced project management theories and practices, equipping learners with essential knowledge across the entire project lifecycle. Starting with foundational concepts and extending to global project frameworks, the curriculum includes modules on time, resource, and quality management, along with strategic planning, communication, and procurement. Learners will explore techniques for managing stress, conflict, and team performance, while also developing crisis response strategies and resilience planning. A strong focus is placed on leadership and stakeholder engagement, enabling participants to drive results through effective coordination and planning. Each module is structured to build critical thinking and decision-making capabilities suited for high-level responsibilities. By engaging with industry-relevant case studies and strategic planning exercises, learners will graduate with the insight required to lead organisational change, oversee multifaceted projects, and ensure long-term success within both public and private sectors. Course Modules: Module 01: Introduction to Project Management Module 02: PMBOK and PMI Module 03: Global Project Management Module 04: Project Life Cycle Module 05: Time Management Module 06: Quality Management Module 07: Effective Planning & Scheduling Module 08: Human Resource Management Module 09: Performance Management Module 10: Talent Management Module 11: Organising Meeting and Conferences Module 12: Managing Resources Module 13: Change Management Module 14: Business Resilience and Crisis Management Module 15: Conflict Management Module 16: Stress Management Module 17: Communication Skills Module 18: Procurement & Purchasing Management Module 19: Risk Management (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to progress into senior-level project roles. Professionals aiming to formalise their project management expertise. Beginners with an interest in leadership and organisational management. Team leaders or coordinators aspiring to manage large-scale projects. Career Path Project Manager Programme Director Business Change Manager Risk and Compliance Officer Operations Manager Strategic Planning Consultant Procurement and Contracts Manager Portfolio Manager Crisis and Resilience Coordinator
The Fintech Frontier: Why FDs Need to Know About Fintech,” the podcast where we delve into the world of financial technology There are numerous areas where fintech can make a significant impact. For example, payment processing and reconciliation can be streamlined through digital payment solutions and automated tools. Data analytics and artificial intelligence can enhance financial forecasting, risk management, and fraud detection. Blockchain technology can revolutionize supply chain finance and streamline processes involving multiple parties. By understanding the capabilities of these fintech solutions, FDs can identify areas for improvement and select the right technologies to optimise their financial operations. Additionally, fintech can greatly enhance financial reporting and analysis. Advanced data analytics tools can extract meaningful insights from vast amounts of financial data, enabling FDs to make data-driven decisions and identify trends and patterns. Automation of repetitive tasks, such as data entry and reconciliation, reduces the risk of errors and frees up valuable time for FDs to focus on strategic initiatives. The adoption of cloud-based financial management systems also provides flexibility, scalability, and real-time access to financial data, empowering FDs to make informed decisions on the go. With the rapid pace of fintech advancements, how can FDs stay up to date and navigate the evolving fintech landscape? Continuous learning and engagement with the fintech community are key. Attend industry conferences, participate in webinars and workshops, and engage with fintech startups and established players. Networking with professionals in the field, joining fintech-focused associations, and following relevant publications and blogs can help FDs stay abreast of the latest fintech developments. Embracing a mindset of curiosity and adaptability is crucial in navigating the ever-changing fintech landscape. I would also encourage FDs to foster partnerships and collaborations with fintech companies. Engage in conversations with fintech providers to understand their solutions and explore potential synergies. By forging strategic partnerships, FDs can gain access to cutting-edge technologies and co-create innovative solutions tailored to their organisation’s unique needs. As we conclude, do you have any final thoughts or advice for our FD audience regarding fintech? Embrace fintech as an opportunity, not a threat. Seek to understand its potential and how it can align with your organisation’s goals and strategies. Be open to experimentation and pilot projects to test the viability of fintech solutions. Remember that fintech is a tool to enhance and optimize financial processes, and as FDs, we have a crucial role in driving its effective implementation. https://www.fdcapital.co.uk/podcast/the-fintech-frontier-why-fds-need-to-know-about-fintech/ Tags Online Events Things To Do Online Online Conferences Online Business Conferences #event #fintech #knowledge #fds #frontier
Ethics Matters: Corporate Governance and CFOs,” the podcast where we dive deep into the critical intersection of corporate governance. Sustainability and ESG reporting have gained significant attention in recent years. How do CFOs incorporate these considerations into their financial strategies and decision-making? CFOs recognise that sustainable practices and ESG considerations are not only ethical imperatives but also critical for long-term business success. We incorporate these considerations into financial strategies by assessing the environmental and social impacts of our operations, supply chains, and investment decisions. By incorporating ESG factors into our financial analyses, we make more informed decisions that align with our company’s values and stakeholder expectations. Furthermore, CFOs play a pivotal role in ESG reporting. We collaborate with cross-functional teams to collect relevant data, establish reporting frameworks, and communicate the company’s sustainability initiatives to stakeholders. This transparency fosters trust and accountability while allowing investors, customers, and the broader community to evaluate our commitment to sustainable practices. Board engagement is essential for effective corporate governance. How can CFOs contribute to building a strong relationship between the CFO and the board of directors? Building a strong relationship with the board of directors begins with open and transparent communication. CFOs provide timely and accurate financial information, strategic insights, and risk assessments to the board. We actively participate in board meetings, present financial reports, and engage in discussions about financial performance, strategic initiatives, and potential risks. By demonstrating our financial expertise and ethical leadership, we contribute to a healthy and productive relationship with the board. It’s also crucial for CFOs to provide independent perspectives and challenge conventional thinking when necessary. By offering well-informed insights and raising critical questions, we contribute to robust board discussions and decision-making. This collaborative approach fosters an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and ethical considerations are thoroughly examined. I would encourage fellow CFOs to prioritise ethics and corporate governance as integral components of their roles. Embed ethical considerations into decision-making processes, ensure robust governance structures, and actively engage with stakeholders. By doing so, we can drive sustainable, responsible, and successful organizations. https://www.fdcapital.co.uk/podcast/ethics-matters-corporate-governance-and-cfos/ Tags Online Events Things To Do Online Online Conferences Online Business Conferences #event #ethics #matters #cfos #corporategovernance
Technology and innovation and its profound impact on financial operations Technology adoption indeed comes with risks, particularly around data security and privacy. As CFOs, we must ensure robust cybersecurity measures and adhere to strict data protection regulations. It requires ongoing investment in secure systems, staff training, and proactive monitoring to mitigate risks and protect sensitive financial information. Change management is also crucial. The adoption of new technologies requires proper planning, training, and cultural adjustments. As CFOs, we need to foster a culture that embraces innovation and continuous learning. Clear communication about the benefits and objectives of technology adoption is essential to gain buy-in and drive successful implementation. Fantastic insights! Now, let’s discuss the future. What emerging technologies do you foresee shaping the future of finance functions? One area that holds immense potential is blockchain technology. Its decentralised and transparent nature has the potential to streamline financial transactions, enhance auditability, and revolutionize supply chain finance. We’re closely monitoring blockchain’s development and exploring pilot projects to leverage its benefits. I agree, blockchain is a game-changer. Additionally, as the internet of things (IoT) expands, we anticipate new opportunities and challenges. CFOs will need to adapt to the influx of real-time data from interconnected devices, leveraging this information to optimize financial processes, enhance risk management, and improve operational efficiencies. Before we wrap up, any final thoughts or advice for our CFO audience? Embrace technology and view it as an opportunity rather than a threat. Invest in understanding the technological landscape and its implications for finance. Stay curious, adapt, and be open to change. Technology will continue to evolve, and as CFOs, we must evolve with it. Absolutely. Collaboration is key. Engage with IT teams, industry peers, and external experts to stay informed about the latest technological advancements. By fostering partnerships and sharing knowledge, we can collectively navigate the ever-changing technology landscape and drive innovation within our organisations. https://www.fdcapital.co.uk/podcast/technology-and-innovation-and-its-profound-impact-on-financial-operations/ Tags Online Events Things To Do Online Online Conferences Online Science & Tech Conferences #technology #innovation #financial #impact #operations
Duration 1 Days 6 CPD hours This course is intended for This course is intended for organizations engaged with remote workforce teams. Overview Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to identify and create high performance teams. In this course, teams will learn the importance of developing performance skills while working remotely. Getting Started Workshop Objectives Action Plan Remote Workforce What is a Remote Workforce? Types of Remote Workforce Benefits of a Remote Workforce Materials for Remote Workforce Practical Illustration High Performance Teams What is a High-Performance Team? Benefits of High-Performance Teams Leadership for High Performance Team Understanding Team Dynamics Practical Illustration Characteristics of High-Performance Teams Excellent Communication Goal-Oriented Flexibility Committed Practical Illustration How to Create Teamwork Identify Group & Individual Responsibilities Give Permission to Take Action Build Relationships between Team Members and Management Give Feedback Practical Illustration Types of Communication Virtual Team Meetings Telephone Conferences Email Communication Intranet, Webpage, and Social Media Communication Practical Illustration Training Your Team Telecommute Training Web-based Training Peer Training Training Assessment and Retraining Practical Illustration Types of Communication Tracking Team Performance Counseling Employees Positive Recognition for Employees Training Never Stops! Practical Illustration Effective Team Meeting How-to 43 Have a Clear Agenda Have a Clear Agenda Use Screen Shots or References Create a Safe Place Team Meeting Don?ts Practical Illustration Keep a Happy and Motivated High-Performance Team Watch for Signs of Conflict or Unhappiness Employee Feedback and Concerns Give Opportunities for Additional Education Impart Opportunities for Career Growth Practical Illustration Don?ts? with High Performance Teams Don't Forget to Share Success Don't Delay in Responding Don?t Assign Vague Responsibilities Don?t Lead as a Dictator Practical Illustration Wrapping Up Words from the Wise
Duration 5 Days 30 CPD hours This course is intended for This course is designed for Collaboration engineers and administration professionals in job roles such as: Network administrator Network architect Network designer Network engineer Network manager Overview After taking this course, you should be able to: Analyze and troubleshoot SIP, H.323, and media protocols Implement time-of-day routing, call park, call pickup, and meet-me conferences in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Implement call coverage in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Configure and troubleshoot Cisco Unified Communications Manager Device Mobility Configure and troubleshoot Cisco Unified Communications Manager Extension Mobility Configure and troubleshoot Cisco Unified Communications Manager Unified Mobility Implement Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express for SIP phones Implement globalized call routing within and between Cisco Unified Communications Manager clusters Implement Media Gateway Control Protocol (MGCP) fallback and Survivable Remote Site Telephony (SRST) in Cisco Unified Communications Manager and in Cisco IOS XE gateways Implement Call Admission Control and Automated Alternate Routing (AAR) in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Implement URI calling in Cisco Unified Communications Manager for calls within a cluster and between clusters Troubleshoot multisite Cisco Unified Communications Manager deployments Implement Intercluster Lookup Service (ILS) between Cisco Unified Communications Manager clusters and enable General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Configure and troubleshoot Cisco Unified Border Element In this course, you will learn how to use Cisco© Unified Communications Manager features to consolidate your communications infrastructure into a scalable, portable, and secure collaboration solution. This course prepares you for the 300-815 Implementing Cisco Advanced Call Control and Mobility Services (CLACCM) concentration exam and CCNP-Collaboration certification. Course Outline Analyzing and Troubleshooting Signaling and Media Protocols Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Manager Supplemental Services Implementing Call Coverage in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Configuring and Troubleshooting Cisco Unified Communications Manager Device Mobility Configuring and Troubleshooting Cisco Unified Communications Manager Extension Mobility Configuring and Troubleshooting Cisco Unified CM Unified Mobility Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express Implementing Globalized Call Routing Implementing Remote Site Survivability Implementing Call Admission Control in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Implementing URI Calling in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Troubleshooting Multisite Cisco Unified Communications Manager Deployments Examining Global Dial Plan Replication Configuring and Troubleshooting Cisco Unified Border Element Lab outline Analyze SIP, H.323, and Media Protocols Troubleshoot SIP and Media Protocols Implement Cisco Unified Communications Manager Supplemental Services Implement Call Hunting and Call Queueing in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Configure Device Mobility Troubleshoot Cisco Unified Communications Manager Device Mobility Configure Cisco Unified Communications Manager Extension Mobility Troubleshoot Cisco Unified Communications Manager Extension Mobility Configure Cisco Unified Mobility Troubleshoot Cisco Unified Mobility Implement Endpoints in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express Implement Endpoint Addressing and Call Routing in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express Implement Calling Privileges in Cisco Unified Communications Manager Express Implement Hunt Groups, Call Park, and Paging in Cisco United Communications Manager Express Implement Globalized Call Routing Implement TEHO, PSTN Backup, and CoS in a Globalized Call-Routing Deployment Implement MGCP Fallback and Survivable Remote Site Telephony Implement Call Admission Control Implement a URI-Based Dial Plan for Multisite Deployments Troubleshoot Globalized Call Routing Troubleshoot Call Admission Control Implement Global Dial Plan Replication Implement Cisco Unified Border Element Troubleshoot Cisco Unified Border Element
Talent Management and Succession Planning,” the podcast where we explore the critical aspects of attracting and retaining top finance talen Talent management is the lifeblood of any organisation, and finance departments are no exception. In a competitive business landscape, attracting and retaining top finance talent can make a significant difference. Highly skilled and motivated professionals drive innovation, improve financial performance, and contribute to strategic decision-making. By investing in talent management, CFOs ensure their organisations have the right people in the right roles, which is vital for sustainable growth and success. Talent management also enables CFOs to build a culture of continuous learning and development. By nurturing the skills and capabilities of finance professionals, we create an environment that fosters innovation and adaptability. This is crucial in today’s rapidly changing business landscape, where finance teams need to keep pace with evolving technologies, regulations, and industry trends. Talent management provides a foundation for building a resilient and agile finance function. Succession planning is an integral part of talent management. How do CFOs approach succession planning, particularly in finance leadership roles? Succession planning is a proactive approach to ensure a smooth transition of leadership roles. CFOs need to identify high-potential individuals within their finance teams and provide them with opportunities for growth and development. This includes mentorship, training programs, and exposure to cross-functional experiences. By preparing a pipeline of future finance leaders, CFOs can mitigate the risks associated with unexpected departures or retirements, ensuring continuity and stability in finance leadership. Additionally, succession planning should encompass diversity and inclusion. CFOs recognize the importance of building diverse finance teams that reflect the broader talent pool. By providing equal opportunities for underrepresented groups and promoting inclusivity, we foster a culture of belonging and tap into a wider range of perspectives and ideas. Diverse teams drive innovation and improve decision-making, contributing to the overall success of the organisation. How do CFOs create a talent development culture within their finance teams, and what initiatives can be implemented to foster continuous growth? CFOs can create a talent development culture by prioritizing learning and development initiatives. This includes offering ongoing training programs, supporting professional certifications, and providing access to resources that enhance technical and soft skills. CFOs should encourage finance professionals to take ownership of their own development and provide opportunities for them to stretch their capabilities. This may involve cross-functional projects, exposure to different areas of the business, or participation in industry conferences and networking events. Additionally, mentorship and coaching programs play a crucial role in talent development. CFOs can pair experienced finance leaders with up-and-coming talent, fostering knowledge transfer, and providing guidance and support. Encouraging regular feedback and performance discussions helps finance professionals understand their strengths and areas for improvement, enabling targeted development plans. By creating a culture that values continuous learning and growth, CFOs empower their finance teams to reach their full potential. https://www.fdcapital.co.uk/podcast/talent-management-and-succession-planning/ Tags Online Events Things To Do Online Online Classes Online Business Classes #leadership #development #successionplanning #employees #talentmanagement
Are you confident your organisation could cope if a bad news story went viral and you were besieged by the media? Would you be able to fend off a determined and aggressive journalist, take control and deliver your key messages? Our crisis communications courses show you how to cope when your organisation is under fire, and protect your good name. We can: Train your spokespeople to handle challenging interviews, pitting their wits against a hostile reporter Train your PR team to manage communications during an unfolding crisis Deliver a fast-paced crisis simulation where your team have to decide how to handle the press during an unfolding emergency Facilitate a crisis strategy workshop, where we work together to develop your crisis communications strategy All of our crisis communications courses are bespoke, so we will design each one to meet your specific needs. Areas we can cover include: How a crisis can escalate in seconds How journalists respond to bad news stories How to develop effective key messages & write holding statements How to manage your social media How to take control of an interview and get your message across How to handle press conferences and doorsteps Venue We deliver courses in the most appropriate format for your circumstances – whether face to face or online. Face to face courses are portable: they can be held in purpose-built studios, at your own offices or at an external venue. In the latter two cases, we create a mock studio for the practical exercises. Online courses give you flexibility and enable you to offer training to delegates from all over the world. We have run virtual courses for people from the Far East, South Asia, North America and Europe, as well as the UK.
Course Duration: 1 day (or 2 half-day sessions) Target Audience: Anyone who delivers presentations in a professional setting – including team members, managers, project leads, or executives – who want to improve confidence, clarity, and impact when speaking. Course Objectives By the end of this course, participants will be able to: Prepare and structure engaging presentations for different audiences. Deliver content with confidence, clarity, and professionalism. Use body language, voice, and visual aids effectively. Manage nerves and build a strong connection with the audience. Handle questions and unexpected situations with poise. Course Outline Module 1: Understanding Effective Presentations What makes a presentation effective? Common mistakes and how to avoid them Aligning your message with the audience’s needs Module 2: Planning and Structuring Your Message Setting clear objectives The “power of three” and other storytelling structures Openings and closings that stick Making content memorable and persuasive Module 3: Delivering with Confidence Managing nerves and performance anxiety Using your voice: tone, pace, and projection Body language and posture Eye contact and engagement strategies Module 4: Visual Aids and Presentation Tools Designing slides that support (not distract) Tips for using PowerPoint or Canva effectively Alternatives to slides (e.g. props, whiteboards, storytelling) Module 5: Engaging Your Audience Reading the room and adjusting your delivery Encouraging interaction and participation Handling difficult questions or interruptions Time management and staying on message Module 6: Practice and Feedback Participants deliver a short presentation (2–5 minutes) Peer and facilitator feedback Self-reflection and improvement planning Delivery Style Interactive, supportive environment Role-playing, practical exercises, and real-time coaching Optional video recordings for feedback Course Materials Provided Participant workbook and slide templates Presentation preparation checklist Self-assessment and feedback forms Tips for virtual presentations (Zoom, Teams) Optional Add-ons (for 2-day version) Extended practice time with filming and playback Advanced storytelling and persuasive techniques Coaching for high-stakes presentations (e.g. board meetings, conferences)