EDITOR: For someone considering the CFA Program, what can you offer as the most compelling reason to pursue the CFA charter?

RAJAPAKSA: I felt it was the best method to advance and progress in the investment industry with a thorough understanding whilst remaining in my home country. Furthermore, it offered an internationally recognized qualification in case I wanted to globe trot in my career.

EDITOR: Was it worth the effort to earn your CFA charter?

RAJAPAKSA: It was definitely well worth the effort, which I am quite proud of. It has helped me in career advancement, in deploying the theoretical knowledge in practice, and imparting the knowledge I gained to the younger generation.

EDITOR: Can you remember any particular strategies or tactics that got you through the three CFA exams?

RAJAPAKSA: I read the recommended readings and did not take any short cuts such as relying on summarized versions of the readings. The thorough knowledge from the previous level helped me to advance to the next level each year.

EDITOR: Describe your current position.

RAJAPAKSA: I work for the largest mutual fund management company in Sri Lanka as a senior fund manager.

EDITOR: What are the fun/interesting parts of your job?

RAJAPAKSA: I thoroughly enjoy getting involved in day-to-day equity trading in a very volatile and challenging Colombo Stock Market.

EDITOR: What knowledge gained from the CFA Program do you use in your business activities?

RAJAPAKSA: Mostly the knowledge gained on equity analysis and portfolio management is used in fund management activities.

EDITOR: What did you learn from the CFA Program that you would not have learned any place else?

RAJAPAKSA: In my view, importance of ethics in fund management activities is unique to the CFA Program.

EDITOR: What have you gained from the experience of being a member of the Sri Lanka Society?

RAJAPAKSA: I have realized that a lot could be done for the development of the investment industry as a whole.

EDITOR: As an exam grader, do you have any particular insight or advice that you'd like to pass along to prospective and future charterholders?

RAJAPAKSA: I think it is an exam that is very fairly graded. Therefore, a candidate who is well prepared to sit for the exam has the best chance of succeeding.

EDITOR: Any other words of encouragement?

RAJAPAKSA: I think the CFA Program is a must to progress in the investment industry. I advise all those who wish to join this rewarding industry to pursue the CFA charter.