About

Why I Created Charter Career Strategies

I founded Charter Career Strategies because I believe too many CFA professionals make career decisions reactively—responding to short-term pressures, corporate politics, or surface-level trends. In a world increasingly dominated by noise, distraction, and burnout, it’s more important than ever to think strategically, act deliberately, and remain anchored to long-term goals.
 
Strategic growth—whether pursuing the CFA charter, shifting into leadership, or building a second act—requires time, reflection, and often doing difficult things while navigating through complex decisions. But it doesn't have to be done alone. I created this practice to serve as a private, thinking partner for professionals committed to growth. Together, we can align ambition with integrity and help you chart a course toward a meaningful and enduring career.

Founder, CFA Charterholder, and Strategic Advisor

I’m Daren Miller, CFA, founder of Charter Career Strategies. I earned my CFA charter in 1999 after three consecutive years of disciplined study while working full-time as an economic analyst at a Canadian pension plan. Then, leveraging my CFA success, I became an investment consultant with an actuarial firm in London, England. I’ve spent over 25 years immersed in the investment industry and in education—advising buy-side professionals, teaching CFA candidates, and helping clients navigate complex career transitions with clarity and confidence.

A Global Perspective

My career has taken me from Calgary to London, the Middle East, Hong Kong, and across Canada. I hold a graduate degree from the University of Cambridge and have worked directly with portfolio managers, analysts, and entrepreneurs in global financial centres. My insights are grounded not just in theory, but in experience—working on the ground with real professionals facing real decisions.

Deep CFA Exam Preparation Roots

For many years, I was a lead CFA instructor at Wiley and founded a corporate CFA training centre in Calgary. My videos are still available on YouTube (and UWorld, the company that bought Wiley’s CFA videos) and have reached candidates around the world. But my most meaningful successes came in smaller, more personal settings—including within one of the world’s largest sovereign wealth funds—where I helped individuals not only pass but grow into leaders.

Beyond the Exam—Building a Career that Lasts

While CFA exam prep might appear to get you a pass, much of the curriculum is quickly forgotten once the exam is over. That’s a problem. I’m working to change that—starting at Level I. My approach is to help candidates build a durable foundation, so the CFA isn’t just a credential, but the launchpad for a breathtaking career.

A One-on-One Strategic Relationship

Today, I focus exclusively on confidential one-on-one advisory relationships—quietly guiding ambitious CFA professionals as they grow, assert themselves, overcome internal and external challenges, and transform their careers from technical to strategic.

No Shortcuts—Only Substance

I’m not on social media, and I don’t believe in quick fixes. My work is rooted in discretion, depth, and trust. I help professionals think ahead, stay sharp, and take a long-term view of their career—especially in a world full of distractions, noise, and performative careerism. For those ready to do the real work and own their next chapter, I’m here to help.

How I Work: My Advisory Style

I take a deeply personal and conversational approach. I'm friendly, curious, and a great listener. Clients often tell me they feel heard—not just for what they say, but for what they mean. I notice small details and pay close attention to the unspoken, the subtle shifts, and the patterns that often get overlooked.

That said, I’m not passive. While many coaches and even therapists prefer to let clients come to their own conclusions, I’m willing to speak up—especially if I think you’re steering toward the rocks. I’m direct when it counts, and I don’t offer flattery or puffed-up praise. My feedback is honest, grounded, and intended to help you grow, not just feel good in the moment.

My style is both thoughtful and action-oriented. I believe time is limited, and too many high-potential professionals stall in indecision or drift into misaligned roles. I help you see the path—and start moving deliberately toward it.

I'm also idea-driven, with sparks of creativity flying constantly as I get to know someone’s personality, constraints, and goals. Many of my best insights arrive mid-conversation or between sessions, as I continue thinking about my clients’ situations long after we speak. I often draw from outside finance—psychology, theology, communication, philosophy—whatever brings fresh perspective to complex problems.

I’m a lifelong learner. I’m naturally curious. I read about two books a week and am largely self-taught beyond my formal education and CFA training. That interdisciplinary lens helps me serve as more than a technical advisor—I’m a strategic partner who will challenge your assumptions, expand your field of vision, and push you to act when the time is right.