Hi there,
You do have good foundation and after working in financial services for 2.5 years or so will stand you in good stead to transition to become a BA. It is a good idea to start becoming familiar with what it is all about to be a BA so that you can potentially start doing some of those types of tasks as you gain your initial experience. You will most likely get involved with projects anyway and therefore a good basic understanding of what business analysis is all about now, is a wise plan. I include some more practical ideas and tips for how to go about this below. I also include my website address, it contains a lot of BA career specific advice and also looks at what types of courses to look for. It is not a site that is trying to sell you a course or anything, it is focussed on helping aspiring BA's like yourself to get started on the right path. Enjoy!
How to become a Business Analyst?
Get the foundation business analysis concepts understood.
You should start reading up on Business Analysis (yes, this site is a good place to start!) and get yourself familiar with the overall role and purpose of the business analyst.
If you are able to sign up for a classroom based, digital or online course in one of the foundation type BA course, then that is a great next step. It is sometimes better to get some exposure to business analysis in the workplace before going for course, but it is not that important.
Attend Business Analysis networking events, mingle with the right people!
Go to local and international Business Analysis seminars and conferences.
Get some practical experience in perform business analysis tasks.
There are various avenues for you to follow to get yourself into a situation where you can get some practical business analysis experience.
Some people use their existing career subject matter expertise to go onto projects as a subject matter expert who will work closely with a business analyst. This is a great way to get into it hands-on because you are effectively 'job shadowing' someone.
There are job opportunities out there for Business Analysts who have a strong knowledge in a specific subject area. Once you have done some courses and research you could try apply for a junior BA role where your subject matter expertise is in high demand. Make sure you write your cover letter to suit Business Analysis.
Start telling people around you that this is what you would like to do with your career, the word will spread and an opportunity might come up.
If you are lucky enough to be on a project already, start volunteering to partake in business requirements gathering and documentation activities. This is a great way to get your hands dirty and gaining credible practical experience.
Go talk to a career coach that specialises in Business Analysis to put together a transition plan for your career change. This is a sure way to excellerate your transition to Business Analysis.
Good luck!
Esta Lessing