In this episode of Financial Modeler’s Corner, host Paul Barnhurst welcomes Ian Schnoor, Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute. The conversation focuses on the growing role of financial modeling in uncertain markets, the expanding reach of FMI, and the importance of structure, clarity, and accreditation in building better business decisions. Ian shares practical insights from his global work, recent collaborations, and lessons from building multiple businesses.

Ian Schnoor is the Executive Director of the Financial Modeling Institute (FMI), the only organization offering globally recognized financial modeling accreditation. He founded The Marquee Group, which was acquired by Training the Street in 2023. Ian has trained thousands of professionals in modeling, valuation, and Excel. He teaches at Queen’s University, holds a CFA charter, and began his career in investment banking with Citigroup and BMO. He’s focused on raising the standard of modeling across the world through education and certification.

Expect to Learn:

• Why financial modeling is essential during market volatility
• How FMI is earning global recognition from top firms
• The impact of adding financial modeling to the CFA program
• Insights from FMI’s expansion into China and India
• Three principles for building a successful business
• A creative use of Excel to solve a real-world inventory challenge

Here are a few quotes from the episode:

• “A good model helps you ask the right ‘what if’ questions, not deliver perfect answers.” - Ian Schnoor
• “The true purpose of a model is to give decision-makers confidence in uncertain times.” - Ian Schnoor
• “Getting the AFM means you’ve shown up, done the work, and proved your skills under pressure.” - Ian Schnoor

Ian Schnoor shared powerful insights on the role of modeling in today’s uncertain world.

He emphasized clarity, structure, and the value of accreditation in building trust and better decisions. His global work is helping elevate modeling into a true professional discipline.

A strong reminder that great models lead to great leadership.

Follow Ian Schnoor:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianschnoor/?originalSubdomain=ca

Website - https://fminstitute.com/

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Website - https://www.thefpandaguy.com   

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefpandaguy  

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thefpaguy8376 

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In today’s episode:

[01:27] - Welcome back to the Episode

[04:04] - Financial modeling during market volatility

[08:01] - Updates from FMI and its global growth

[11:47] - Accreditation and why it matters

[16:41] - Partnerships in China and India

[22:02] - Excel World Cup and the global community

[24:22] - CFA Institute collaboration

[28:23] - Global expansion stories

[32:34] - Three principles for business success

[37:23] - Real-life Excel project: Baby blanket logistics

[42:48] - Rapid-fire: tools and trends in modeling

[47:37] - Final advice for modelers