1. Tell us about your current role; what does the job entail?

I work with my clients to help them identify and achieve their financial goals and objectives by building comprehensive financial plans and reviewing them on an annual basis.

2.  How long have you worked in IPF?

I joined  IPF in February 2015, so 10 years now.

3. What attracted you to working there?

I always had an interest in working as a Financial Advisor but never knew where to start. What attracted me to IPF was the clear training structure they have and the career path. This gave me a track to run on. They gave me the support and opportunity I needed to do my QFA exams and develop my skills through classroom-based learning and mentorship from other experienced financial advisors in the company. 10 years on, this is something I still do on a weekly basis to ensure. Continuous learning is an integral part of IPF and its culture. It’s all about helping each other out. The earnings potential and industry-leading remuneration package on offer were extremely appealing to me also.

4. Tell us about your average day.

I start the day each morning by reviewing market factsheets, economic news, and other relevant updates. I will then respond to any emails from clients. I will have 2-3 one-to-one financial consultations booked, which can be a combination of existing clients or prospective clients to help build financial plans or review existing ones. These are generally done on Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Between one-to-one consultations, I will do my administrative and compliance tasks. Other elements of the day include training, booking my diary for next week and preparing for client meetings the following day.

5. What do you enjoy about your job? 

I enjoy the variety of the job and that no two days are ever the same. I get great satisfaction knowing that I have a positive impact on my clients by building long-term financial plans, whether that is giving them financial security or allowing them to retire early.

6. What are the challenges?

Time management and organisation are two crucial parts of the role. There are many elements to the job, and being able to prioritise tasks, keep on top of your to-do list, and not procrastinate are very important to ensure success.

7. Describe the work culture in the company.

The job is very fast-paced, and there is always lots to learn, but IPF has created a very supportive, collaborative work environment where everyone always helps each other out and no one is too busy to lend a hand. Management always has an open-door policy and is always on hand to help you with whatever you need. You very much feel part of a team from day one.

8. What advice would you give to somebody interested in working there?

Working in IPF will be for you if you want to build a long-term career as a Financial Planner. There is a lot to learn at the outset, but once you are willing to learn, put in the hard work, and take on board feedback, it is an incredibly rewarding job where you can grow and become highly successful.

9.  Is there something unique or interesting about your company that you’d like to share with jobseekers (perks, benefits, training, social clubs etc)  

The ongoing training we receive is second to none and is industry-leading. IPF put a lot of time into training staff, and they also have a very generous education bursary to be utilised toward continuing of your professional development. The people that work in IPF is probably the best thing. Everyone is so supportive of each other. The social outings, charity event and nights out are always a great way to unwind with colleagues. There is a very good work life balance and the ability for hybrid working so staff get a great deal of flexibility to work from home and in the office.