LabDad has it right, setting up the FGC, when hand flying is the job of the PM, period. Having you, as the PF, do it when new to the plane and operation was a set up for failure. I tried it on CL604 course and was brought up short--"it's the PM's job, call for the selections until A/P engaged.

I'm curious as to which airline is teaching this non-standard, non-factory way of doing business?

Good Luck, GF