CHARTERED DUE DILIGENCE ANALYST

Transcription

1 TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME... 2 How To Use This Handbook CDDA Commission WHY EARN THE CDDA CERTIFICATION...3 What Is The Purpose Of The CDDA Credential? What Are The Benefits Of Certification? ABOUT CDDA CERTIFICATION... 4 Who Can Apply? How to get started Eligibility requirements Nondiscrimination Fees CHARTERED DUE DILIGENCE ANALYST How to Apply Background Check Checklist Reference Requirements Work Experience guidelines Certification Maintenance ELIGIBILITY... 5 CANDIDATE HANDBOOK CDDA CERTIFICATION APPLICATION... 7 PROFESSIONAL REFEREENCES ADMINISTRATIVE Note: This handbook reflects the policies and procedures as of November 24, All policies and procedures are subject to change. If you have any questions or require further information, please visit or contact CDDA program staff. IMDDA 305 Madison Avenue, Suite 2036 New York, NY Telephone: E- mail: cddadept@imdda.org Visit: Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 1

2 WELCOME Congratulations on taking the first step in enhancing your career. The Investment Management Due Diligence Association (IMDDA) established the Chartered Due Diligence Analyst (CDDA ) program to promote the highest standards of due diligence through. By choosing to review this candidate handbook, you have taken the first step toward joining those who have distinguished themselves by earning the CDDA credential/ THIS HANDBOOK This handbook summarizes key aspects of the CDDA Program, and is intended to help you understand why the program was developed, how it is governed, its policies and procedures, and the steps to earning and maintaining the CDDA credential. The handbook is a useful reference to you as you: make your decision whether to pursue the CDDA develop your course to meet the eligibility requirements of the CDDA complete the CDDA application seek to maintain (or provide yourself another opportunity to earn) the CDDA The CDDA is a constantly evolving program that continues to grow and be refined in accord with the evolution of due diligence and certification professional practices. No printed document can address every potential question, policy detail, or future program change. You are encouraged to use this handbook as a guide to learning more about the program however, we strongly encourage you to speak with IMDDA staff and review the material on the IMDDA s website. IMDDA staff can be reached via at cddadept@imdda.org and the IMDDA website is THE CDDA COMMISSION The CDDA Commission is responsible for the governance of the CDDA Program, and all policy and standards related to the CDDA credential. The program is administered by IMDDA staff, which implements the policies. This structure allows the CDDA Commission to maintain integrity concerning policy matters related to credentialing. The CDDA Commission issues certificates to individuals who successfully meet its standards. These individuals may present themselves to the public as Chartered Due Diligence Analysts. IS MY INFORMATION KEPT CONFIDENTIAL? Certification applications and candidates' performance on the CDDA review shall remain confidential unless otherwise stipulated by the reviewee or as required by law. The CDDA Program will release application and pass/fail information only to the applicant and only in writing. The exception to this is the published list of CDDAs that the Commission makes available to the public. This statement does not preclude the publishing of any holder s name against whom disciplinary action has been taken. APPEALS PROVISION The applicant, candidate or holder who wishes to make an appeal (the Appellant ) must submit an appeal in writing to the CDDA Appeals Committee within thirty (30) days of receipt of notification of an adverse decision. The CDDA Appeals Committee shall then meet in person or by teleconference within 30 days after the end date of the appeal period. All determinations regarding appeals must be decided by a two- thirds (2/3) vote of the Appeals Committee. Notice of the Appeals Committee determination shall be provided to the Appellant within 10 business days of the decision. The Appellant then has 30 days from receipt of the Appeals Committee determination to file a written appeal with the CDDA Commission. The appeal shall be considered at the next regularly scheduled meeting of the CDDA Commission. All determinations regarding appeals must be decided by two- thirds vote of the Commission. Notice of the Commission determination shall be provided in writing to the Appellant within 10 business days of the Commission meeting. The CDDA Commission s determination shall be final. Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 2

3 Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 3

4 Why Earn the CDDA? The Chartered Due Diligence Analyst (CDDA) designation denotes a superior level of understanding of international Due Diligence practices and principles. Obtaining the CDDA distinguishes you as someone with an extensive background and experience in Due Diligence and someone who has the skills to understand business, operational, accounting, financial and investment risks. The CDDA Certification is the recognized standard in Business, Operational and Investment Due Diligence around the globe. WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE CDDA CREDENTIAL? The purposes of the CDDA certification program are to: establish the body of knowledge for due diligence professionals assess the level of knowledge demonstrated by due diligence professionals in a valid and reliable manner encourage professional growth in the field of due diligence formally recognize individuals who meet the requirements set by CDDA Commission serve the public by encouraging quality due diligence services The CDDA Commission, with the assistance and advice of professionals in relevant fields, has attempted to develop a credential that will recognize accepted levels of expertise in the profession with the goal of improving professional standards in due diligence. However, no certification program can guarantee professional competence. The CDDA Commission welcomes constructive comments and suggestions from the public and the profession. Understanding how money is invested and all the business, and operational functions of manager is more important than ever, having a CDDA gives you the knowledge and structure to ask the right question and gather the right information to make the right decision for your firm.. The CDDA credential: Demonstrates that you have specialized knowledge in the Due Diligence field. Earning the CDDA credential is the hallmark of a committed due diligence professional. It helps drive professional self- confidence, opens doors, creates connections, and offers widespread value and recognition for those with the credential. Benefits of Certification for employers. Having a CDDA- chartered team shows a commitment to due diligence to those inside and outside the firm. Upgrades your skills. The continuing education required to maintain certification ensures your skills remain sharp and your knowledge current. Those who earn the CDDA designation reap multiple benefits, including: Verification of your knowledge by an independent organization a way to prove that you have the knowledge needed for the job Professional growth and development Enhanced job opportunities Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 4

5 ABOUT CDDA CERTIFICATION About this Handbook This handbook provides information that you will need to apply for the CDDA certification including eligibility requirements, policies and application. How to Get Started Step 1: Fill out your application and gather supporting documents. Step 2: Choose your membership and CDDA certification package. Step 3: Submit your payment, application and supporting documents. Step 4: Upon payment and approval of your application you will be issued a Certificate acknowledging the credential and your entitlement of all rights and privileges of such. CDDA Eligibility Requirements and IMDDA Membership Candidates wishing to obtain the CDDA certification must: Applicant must be an active IMDDA member in good standing. Document the minimum number of qualifying credits based on higher education coursework at an accredited college or university, other professional certification and ten years of professional experience in the field. Submit supporting documents. Provide three professional references. Candidates who pass the CDDA review and wish to use and display the CDDA must be active members of the IMDDA. Statement of Nondiscrimination IMDDA does not discriminate among candidates based on age, gender, race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, disability or marital status. Review Fee* Standard CDDA Package Private sector $595 Public sector** $295 ** For individuals who are full- time government employees. How to Apply Complete the application included in this handbook. Mail or all required documentation and the appropriate fees to IMDDA at the address below. Payment may be made by credit card, personal check, cashier s check, money order or wire transfer (wire transfers must include identifying information). Checks should be made payable to IMDDA. Prices are subject to change. Declined credit cards and/or returned checks are subject to a $25 penalty. IMDDA Attn. Certification Department 1212 Ave Of the Americas 9 th Floor New York, NY Contact us with questions at: or cddadept@imdda.org Background Check IMDDA reserves the right to conduct a background check, including a criminal records check, on all people wishing to apply for the CDDA certification. Candidates may be required to fill out a Background Verification Authorization Form. Candidates will receive correspondence from IMDDA regarding the status of their application in the event IMDDA performs a background check. Please be advised that for the integrity of our association and its mission, in the event an individual is subject to a background check and does not pass, that individual will not be certified CDDA. About IMDDA & CDDA Certification The Investment Management Due Diligence Association (IMDDA) is the premier membership organization devoted to professionals in the field of due diligence. The mission of IMDDA is to advance the professional knowledge, skills and experience of those dedicated to the conducting of Business, Operational, Financial, Accounting and Investment Due Diligence around the world. The CDDA Designation is an intense process that rigorously tests for aptitude and expertise in Due Diligence. Each person who passes the review becomes a Chartered Due Diligence Analyst (CDDA), a designation that denotes one as an authority in the field of Due Diligence. Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 5

6 Candidates must have a minimum of 70 qualifying credits based on education, other professional certification, and professional experience in the Due Diligence field, in addition to providing 3 references. The following table represents the IMDDA credit award system for eligibility: I. EDUCATION Must have one degree. Select only highest level of education Bachelor s Degree Masters Degree/PhD/JD or Equivalent 15 credits 20 credits Must have a minimum of 15 credits in this section Supporting documentation must accompany information submitted. II. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Each year of full- time experience in Due Diligence or related duties in a financial institution. Professional experience is limited to 10 years. Must have a minimum of 30 credits in this section **complete the Professional Experience Section on the next page III. TRAINING 5 credits/year Professional Certification (Financial Related) (CPA, CPP, CRCM, CFE, CPE, CIA, FINRA Series, etc.)*** Any certification program must include a minimum of eight (8) hours of instruction and a certification exam. 2 max ****provide copies of certificate(s) and proof of valid membership in good standing 5 credits/certification Attendance at a course/seminar/web seminar/conference/educational and or training session on the topic of due diligence and/or related subjects (Includes internal and external training, training by a government agency. Only training taken within the last 365 days before application submission will be counted. ****provide copy of certificate(s) of attendance or receipt of payment from entity conducting training. 1 credit per hour Your Total # of Credits (at least 70 are required) * Only one degree may be used toward the 70 qualifying credits for the CDDA. ** The Professional Experience Section may be found on the next page. *** Please note,, you will only earn a maximum of 10 credits regardless of the number of FINRA licenses you possess. **** Supporting documentation (if necessary accompanied by a translation in English) must accompany information submitted to meet minimum credit criteria in order to qualify for the CDDA Review (i.e., copies of degree, certificates of completion). Please submit all required documentation with your completed application and fee. Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 6

7 Reference Requirements To qualify, three (3) professional references must be provided. Professional references must: Be from individuals who have knowledge of your Due Diligence expertise and experience Be from individuals who supervised you or clients Provide degree of responsibility held in the performance of your job. Comment on your related work experience, integrity, and professional character Describe and confirm your responsibilities in the due diligence process, investigative or analytical procedures performed Submit references directly to IMDDA Do not: use anyone as a reference who falls under your supervision use your relatives serve as a reference for your own application Work Experience Guidelines When you apply for your CDDA membership, you will be asked to demonstrate and confirm that your professional work experience meets the following qualifications. Performing due diligence or similar tasks (e.g. verification, examination, auditing) in connection with any of the following investment activities: Venture Capital Private Equity Hedge Funds Mutual Funds Derivatives Purchase of companies in any industry Other investments Managing and supervising, directly or indirectly, individuals who perform due diligence Teach and lecture on the topic of due diligence. For a job position to qualify, at least 50% of your time should be spent directly involved in the due diligence decisionmaking process or producing a work product that informs or adds value to that process. Work must be full time. Due diligence involved in managing your own investments or the investments of your family or friends (without compensation) does not qualify. Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 7

8 CDDA CERTIFICATION APPLICATION STEP 1 Contact Information Prefix (Mr. Mrs. Ms.) First Name Middle Initial Last Name Title Company Industry Mailing Address 1 (No P. O. Boxes, please) City State/Province Zip/Postal Code Country Phone Alternate Phone Fax Alternate STEP 2 Membership Information In order to considered for the CDDA certification you must be an active IMDDA member in good standing. Are you currently an IMDDA member? Yes No Please provide your member number Please choose your membership level below: Membership Category 1 year 2 years 3 years Private rate $295 $530 $750 Public rate* $195 $325 $450 STEP 3 Choose your CDDA Certification Private rate $295 Public rate* $195 *For individuals who are full- time government employees. All fees must accompany the application. The application fee includes a $50 non- refundable processing fee. Application fees, less the non- refundable processing fee, will be refunded only if your application does not meet the eligibility requirements for CDDA certification Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 8

9 STEP 4 Payment Method Enclosed check payable to IMDDA Send check to: IMDDA CDDA dept 1212 Ave Of The Americas 9 th Floor New York, NY Total amount of CDDA package and membership fee (if applicable). Credit Card (please circle one) MasterCard Visa American Express Discover I agree to pay the above amount according to card issuer agreement. Cardholder s Name Card Number Expiration CVV2Code Signature Date STEP 5 CDDA Certificate Name and Mailing Address Certificate Name Mailing Address 1 (No P. O. Boxes, please) City State/Province Zip/Postal Code Country Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 9

10 TO BE FILLED IN FOR CREDITS FOR EACH YEAR OF PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE IN THE DUE DILIGENCE FIELD: (Use space provided and attach additional pages if necessary.) Dates of Employment: From (Mo./Yr.) To (Mo./Yr.) Name of Employer: Industry: Address: Country: Position/Title: Total Months in this Assignment: Name & Title of Immediate Supervisor: Business Telephone of Immediate Supervisor: Summary of Work Assignment (Do not use this space merely to refer to an attachment): Dates of Employment: From (Mo./Yr.) To (Mo./Yr.) Name of Employer: Industry: Address: Country: Position/Title: Total Months in this Assignment: Name & Title of Immediate Supervisor: Business Telephone of Immediate Supervisor: Summary of Work Assignment (Do not use this space merely to refer to an attachment): Dates of Employment: From (Mo./Yr.) To (Mo./Yr.) Name of Employer: Industry: Address: Country: Position/Title: Total Months in this Assignment: Name & Title of Immediate Supervisor: Business Telephone of Immediate Supervisor: Summary of Work Assignment (Do not use this space merely to refer to an attachment): Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 10

11 Required for all candidates Professional references must be individuals who have knowledge of your Due Diligence expertise and/or current position and the degree of responsibility held in the performance of your job. You should not use anyone as a reference who falls under your supervision. Do not use your own relatives, or members of the IMDDA staff as references. (Please note: all 3 references are REQUIRED.) REFERENCE 1: Name & Title: Professional Relationship: Company Name Country/State/City/Province Telephone o Home o Business (Select one) How long known E- mail: IMDDA Member: o Yes o No Chartered Due Diligence Specialist (CDDA): o Yes o No REFERENCE 2: Name & Title: Professional Relationship: Company Name Country/State/City/Province Telephone o Home o Business (Select one) How long known E- mail: IMDDA Member: o Yes o No Chartered Due Diligence Specialist (CDDA): o Yes o No REFERENCE 3: Name & Title: Professional Relationship: Company Name Country/State/City/Province Telephone o Home o Business (Select one) How long known E- mail: IMDDA Member: Chartered Due Diligence Specialist (CDDA): o Yes o No o Yes o No Applicable as of 9/08/2016. All policies, procedures, and fees subject to change. Copyright IMDDA All rights reserved. 11

12 Did You Remember... To complete the eligibility table? To include supporting documentation, such as copies of diplomas? To order official college transcripts? To complete the professional experience section? (Only for candidates who claim credits for each year of professional experience within the due diligence field) To include the payment with your application? To include 3 professional references? To include your signature and date on the application? Affidavit In submitting this application, I fully understand that it is an application only and does not guarantee certification. I agree to comply with all CDDA Program policies as outlined in the CDDA Policies and Procedures and CDDA Candidate Handbook, and supply further information as determined by the CDDA Commission. I understand and, by my signature, attest that I will, now and in the future, adhere to the IMDDA Standards of Conduct. I further understand that any false statement or misrepresentation that I may make in the course of these proceedings and application may result in the revocation of this application and the issuance of a complaint of violation on said Standards. I understand that the CDDA Commission reserves the right to revise or update this application; and IMDDA, its Standards of Conduct; and that it is my responsibility to be aware of these current requirements. I further understand that I am obligated to inform the CDDA Commission of changed circumstances that may materially affect my application. I further understand that it is my responsibility to provide any requested documentation in connection with this application. I understand and agree that if I am certified following acceptance of this application and successful completion of the examination, such certification does not constitute a warranty or guarantee of my fitness or competency to practice as a due diligence executive. If I am certified, I authorize the CDDA Commission and IMDDA to include my name in a list of certified individuals and agree to use the CDDA designation and related trade names, trademarks, and logos only as permitted by CDDA policies. I understand and agree that the CDDA Commission and IMDDA may also use anonymous and aggregate application and examination data for statistical and research purposes. I certify that I have never been convicted of a felony (or in a military service convicted by a general court martial) and that there is no criminal charge now pending against me. I certify that I have never had a professional membership, license, registration or certification denied, suspended or revoked (other than for lack of minimum qualifications or failure of examination), and that I have never been censured or disciplined by any professional body or organization. I understand that approval of my application is contingent upon the results of a possible investigation of the truthfulness and accuracy of all information I have provided. I authorize IMDDA and its agents to discuss the results of such a review with all persons involved in the certification process. I give consent for all contacted persons to provide information concerning me and/or my application, and I release each such person from liability for providing information to IMDDA and its agents. I understand that any false or misleading statement, misrepresentation, or concealment or material omission of the information I have provided or failed to provide on my application and attachments may be grounds for rejection of my application. Signature Date: Day/Month/Year Mail or completed application AND supporting documentation (copies of diplomas etc.) to: Attn. Certification Department IMDDA 1212 Ave Of The Americas, 9 th Floor New York, NY QUESTIONS? Call: E- mail: cddadept@imdda.org Visit:

13 305 Madison Avenue, Suite 2036, New York, NY [Type text] [Type text] IMDDA.org [Type text]