A new SAF Advanced qualification has been launched to help motor finance professionals to improve their skills.

Designed as the next step for dealership staff who have already passed the existing online SAF test, the Certificate for Automotive Finance Specialists (CertAutoFS) has been developed in partnership by the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA) and ifs University College to help students understand the legal and regulatory framework governing the automotive finance market.

Adrian Dally, head of motor finance at the FLA, said: “At a time when firms are still getting to grips with the Financial Conduct Authority’s consumer credit regime, the development of SAF Advanced shows the industry’s commitment to invest in its staff.

“Awareness of the regulatory framework is vital for anyone working in motor finance, and the focus on customer service makes this qualification a great contribution to firms’ own training programmes.”