The Hellenic Banking Institute and 18 other members of the European Bank Training Network (EBTN) worked closely for two years in order to develop the European Foundation Certificate in Banking (EFCB). With the principal aim of supporting mobility in the European financial services market, the EFCB certification system was designed as a tool for banks all over Europe to use in recruitment, training and HR development procedures, and in establishing quality standards for client service. Moreover it is especially useful for banks with networks in various European countries, which seek to create synergies with the local markets.

Originally EFCB was intended to become a modern and practical professional asset for prospective and new employees in banks. However it soon became apparent in practice that EFCB is a valuable asset for all bank employees, even experienced ones. The systematic knowledge it provides regarding the environment and the operation of banks has attracted the interest of employees who have not pursued studies related to economics and of those whose professional knowledge is focused only on their special field of work.

The programme focuses on the link between client needs and banking products / services. It also offers systematic information on the economic and monetary environment in which banks operate; it is concluded with fundamental knowledge in banking ethics, management and marketing. What makes this certification unique is that it integrates the best practices of local European markets into a market-oriented certificate. At the same time it takes into account the special features of each country by providing for a special section with national data.

Objective:

The programme aspires to equip participants with the necessary knowledge in financial theory and banking practice that is required for the effective performance of their duties in the current demanding environment.

It is an ideal basis, on which participants may build specialized knowledge in services and products of the financial sector, through level II HBI training programmes.

Benefits to participants:

Familiarization with:

• the basic notions of economics (microeconomics and macroeconomics);
• the regulatory framework governing the provision of banking services, and the fundamental concepts of financial analysis and monetary theory;
• the basic procedures and notions of banking practice, with special emphasis on clientele and financial products;
• the basic principles of ethics in financial transactions, bank marketing and management.

Participants:

• New bank employees.
• Experienced employees and executives wishing to update their knowledge in banking.
• Employees and executives working in the broader financial services sector (e.g. insurance companies, investment firms, leasing companies).
• Business executives seeking an overview of the operation of the financial system.
• University graduates wishing to pursue a career in the banking system.

Prerequisites:

No special knowledge or experience is required.

Duration: 120 hours.

Training material: In addition to trainers’ notes, the programme is supported by a three-volume textbook – published by the Hellenic Banking Institute - entitled Foundation Banking Studies.

Exams:

Conducted twice a year under the supervision of ΕΒΤΝ. The test consists of 100 multiple choice questions. In case of failure or to improve their grade, candidates may re-sit for the exam.