60 second interview

“I help people to make the right decisions about their finances.”

Tell me about your job

I help people to make the right decisions about their finances. To do this requires the ability to listen, explain and communicate sometimes complicated matters in a clear & concise way, pay attention to detail, and work efficiently.

Everyone’s situation is different and therefore advice & recommendations I provide are bespoke to each client. 

Being a financial planner is a very rewarding role but can also be very demanding. I like that the role is flexible, and that it provides enormous job satisfaction.  

What is a typical day like?

No two days are ever the same - which is one of the aspects of the role that I enjoy so much. I can be out at a client’s house for a meeting, at our Dorking office, in London or working from home. I undertake preparation work and research prior to meetings, review existing client portfolios, write up recommendations and present them, as well as keeping on top of legislation changes and market movements. 

What attracted you to work in this industry?

I graduated with a BA (Hons) degree in Spanish Studies and had hoped to use my language skills in a future career. Financial planning wasn’t on my radar at the time, but I discovered that the average age of a financial adviser was 55 back then, and there was a shortfall in the number of new entrants in the industry. My father was a bank manager, and my brother went into accountancy, and financial services seemed a good place to start my career. I liked the idea of working with clients over time, to help them achieve their goals and objectives. I even look after some of my original clients’ children and grandchildren now. I am always on the lookout for any opportunities to use my Spanish in my work.

How long have you been doing this job?

I have been a financial adviser since 1997, working for both regional & National firms, including a combined role whilst qualified as a Stockbroker. I joined HJP in 2010.

What are your interests outside of work?

I have always been a competitive sportsman and was lucky enough to be selected to represent England at Touch Rugby. I love spending time outdoors and in particular, landscaping my garden as a way to take time out from work. In recent years I have also been learning new skills with the help of YouTube, culminating in building a garden building (before they became popular with everyone working from home in the last few years!).