FAQs

About the Program 

What is a technology or business consultant?

An FDM Consultant works in collaboration with an FDM client on specific projects, either as part of an outsourced team or to supplement an existing one. Consultants will be selected by specific clients for an agreed amount of time to plan and develop business or technology systems as well as provide expert advice related to their specialty. Consultancy is often seen as a flexible career, as projects consultants are assigned to can differ in duration from a few months to multiple years. This can lead to opportunities to travel and a variety of exciting assignments across a range of industries.  

What is the FDM Career Development Program?

The FDM Career Development Program consists of two phases.  

The first phase involves a variety of specialized training pathways. Each pathway typically takes 3-4 months to complete and they all include hands-on training delivered by experienced tech professionals.  

The second phase consists of a minimum of two-years commercial experience working as an FDM Consultant. Upon successful completion of training, you are given the opportunity to work directly with one of FDM’s clients to further develop your skills and build your professional network. 

Is it essential for me to have an IT degree?

We welcome candidates from a range of academic backgrounds including Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), we also accept applications from non-STEM graduates who can demonstrate a passion for working in the tech industry for both of our business and technical pathways. 

What if I already have IT accreditations or qualifications that FDM offers?

Any previous experience, qualification or accreditation will help you in your journey with FDM and long-term career. However, all candidates are required to successfully complete every component of our assessment process and their specific training pathway, so that we can confidently recommend them to our clients.  

What support will I be getting during the program?

Throughout your journey with FDM, you will receive continuous mentoring, coaching and guidance from our internal teams and various support and development initiatives. These include: 

Consultant Experience: Our Consultant Experience Team work to ensure that all FDM consultants have the proper resources, training and support needed to be successful on-site. This team also works closely with our Consultant Peer Support Network, which is comprised of a group of FDM consultants who will provide you with further guidance as you embark on your career journey. 

Mentoring Program: The Mentoring Program matches consultants with senior employees across the business based on their career aspirations. The initiative is designed to help our employees unlock their full potential and to provide support for long-term career development. The program is online, allowing matches to be made throughout our global organization. 

Consultant Collaboration Platform (Yammer): Yammer provides FDM employees with a virtual platform to connect and socialize with each other. Here consultants will find useful policies and resources as well as join a variety of groups to keep up to date with upcoming events, learning and development opportunities and more. 

Employee Networks: FDM has six employee-led networks which focus on providing our staff with opportunities to enhance their career development and personal growth through supportive communities, open discussions and learning initiatives. Click here to find out more about each network. 

Online Learning and Development: Virtual training, webinars and discussions are available to all FDM consultants, as well as e-learning platforms including LinkedIn Learning and Intuition Know-How. 

Can I drop out of the program once I have started the training period?

We understand that a two-year commitment requires careful consideration, and this is why we have a 14-day introductory period that begins on your first day of training. During this two-week period, you can leave the program if you decide that it is not the right fit for you. 

When do I start getting paid?

In our North American centers, you become a paid employee from day one of your training. 

Assessment and Interviews

What does an FDM Interview Day involve?

During the FDM Interview Day, you will take part in two interviews. One will be conducted by one of our Account Managers and the other will be with one of our Technical Trainers. They will focus on your abilities and suitability to the program rather than previous experience. This is also your opportunity to meet other candidates and find out more about the program. If you successfully qualify to participate in FDM’s Interview Day, one of our recruiters will provide you with detailed information on how best to prepare for the day. 

Training

Will I have to pay for my training?

No, you do not have to pay for your training. This training is an investment that FDM makes in you to best prepare you to succeed when placed on a client site. You become a paid employee from day one of your training, however, you are required to work as an FDM Consultant for a minimum of two years in exchange for the training and professional development that we provide you. 

Where will I train?

Training takes place at one of our FDM Academies in Toronto or Montreal. Due to COVID-19, training is currently being delivered through our online classrooms. Read more about our COVID-19 preparations here. 

What training will I receive?

Your background, experience and performance at the Interview Day will determine which training stream you are best suited for. You can read more about the training and opportunities here or contact our Recruitment Team for a full course breakdown. 

Is there a cooling off period?

FDM requires its consultants to commit to remain employed for two years from the date of their first client placement. We understand that this two-year commitment requires careful consideration and this is why we have a 14-day introductory period that begins on your first day of training that allows you time to determine if FDM is the right fit for you.

Post Training / On Client Site

What happens after I complete my training?

Upon successful completion of your training, you will have the opportunity to work directly with FDM’s clients. Your first day on client site marks the beginning of your two-year journey as an FDM Consultant but do keep in mind that you could end up working with more than one of our clients over this two-year period. 

What companies will I be working with?

FDM works with prestigious clients in a variety of industries including Finance, Insurance and the Public Sector. Our Account Managers will work to evaluate roles with our clients that will align with your skills and help you thrive in your career journey. You may end up working with the same client throughout your two-year commitment, or you may be placed on various client sites during that time. 

What type of projects will I be working on as a full-time consultant?

The projects that you will be involved in will depend on the program you undertake and the client that you are placed with. To learn more, watch the career stories of other consultants who have completed your program or contact our Recruitment Team. 

Is there a guarantee that I will get be placed with a client once I complete the training?

There is never a 100% guarantee, but we will not offer you a role on the program unless we feel confident that you have the potential to be placed with one of our clients. Your interviews with clients may begin while you are still in training depending on your performance in the Academy, with the aim to have your client placement lined up before completion of training or just shortly after.

After the Two-year Commitment

What happens at the end of the two years?

After the two-year commitment, FDM consultants typically have three options: 

  1. Remain with FDM as a senior consultant with the opportunity to work directly with our clients. Senior FDM consultants can also be considered for internal roles within the business.   
  2. Secure a full-time position with FDM’s client. 
  3. Walk away to pursue higher education, self-interests, or other employment opportunities.  

Regardless of the path you take, all former FDM consultants are invited to be a part of FDM’s Alumni Network where they will have the opportunity to further advance their careers by building relationships with other experienced tech professionals, as well as connecting with thousands of other people who are just starting their career through the program. 

Please contact CA.Recruitment@fdmgroup.com with any additional questions and one of our Recruiters will respond to your enquiry shortly.