By Linette Lim

THE 'McDonald's generation' of young people who wants a quick way to success in the banking industry may be in for a surprise.

At least five years in one bank is needed for 'real satisfaction and learning' to take place, says Standard Chartered's Conor McCoole who was speaking at a panel discussion before the award ceremony for the Financial Industry Competency Standards programme.

The programme, run by Singapore Management University and co-funded by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and employers, saw 269 banking professionals receiving their certificates yesterday.

The panel discussion titled 'Dialogue with Industry Leaders: What it Takes to be a Successful Universal Banker' also included Samuel Tsien of OCBC, Eric Tham of UOB and Jeanette Wong of DBS.

With an average 29 years of experience in banking, the panellists were asked by the moderator - SMU associate professor Annie Koh - if 'there was a quicker way' for the 'McDonald's generation' to get to their current positions.

Mr McCoole, managing director and head of project finance for Standard Chartered in Asia, called the business a 'long cycle' one.