Business

Twenty training places up for grabs at First Derivative fintech academy

‘This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a globally leading financial services company’ - Conor Murphy

Twenty high quality training places are on offer on a FinTech Foundation Academy being run for Newry financial services firm First Derivative
Economy minister Conor Murphy with (from left) Liz Toner, head of marketing atFirst Derivative; Louise O’Hare, head of learning and development at First Derivative; and Lee Campbell, interim principal and chief executive at Southern Regional College (Aaron McCracken)

Twenty high quality training places have become available on a FinTech Foundation Academy being run for Newry firm First Derivative.

Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, the academy will be delivered in partnership with Southern Regional College (SRC), with training delivered on-site at its Newry campus.

Economy minister Conor Murphy said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to work with a globally leading financial services company. No previous experience is required so it is open to young people who have just completed their A-levels and are taking their first step in their career. It is also an option for more experienced people who want to change their career or come back into the workforce.

“During the academy there is a weekly training allowance of £175 and allowance for travel expenses. There is also support with childcare costs. I would encourage anyone who is interested to apply.”

Fiona McGilly, chief people officer at First Derivative, said: “We’re excited at this collaboration with the Department for the Economy and the SRC to introduce our third Assured Skills Academy, which presents a significant opportunity for individuals holding A-level or equivalent qualifications to begin their fintech careers and acquire essential finance and technical skills required by the industry.

“At First Derivative, our diverse talent is something we are hugely proud of, and this academy will afford us the opportunity to upskill more local talent.”

Lee Campbell, interim principal and chief executive of SRC, said: “Southern Regional College is delighted to partner with the Department and First Derivative to offer another exceptional opportunity for individuals to gain the skills needed for a successful career in the financial services sector.



“I encourage those seeking professional growth or considering a career change to explore this academy. Previous academies have proven successful in equipping participants with high quality training and securing employment opportunities in our local economy.”

Academy participants will receive industry-relevant training with SRC from October 21 to December 13, and those who successfully complete the programme will be guaranteed an interview with First Derivative for a trainee analyst position.

Applications for the academy are open until noon on August 27 (more information at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/fintech-foundation-academy-first-derivative)