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

 

2.   How long have you worked in IPF?

I started in IPF 14 months ago.

3.   What attracted you to working there?

What attracted me to IPF was the clear career progression. From the outset, it was evident that IPF values professional growth and provides a structured path for advancement. The opportunities for continuous learning, skill development, and the potential to take on increasing responsibilities align perfectly with my own career aspirations. This focus on development not only motivates me but also ensures that I can contribute effectively and grow within the company.

 

4.   Tell us about your average day.

My average day typically includes conducting two to three financial consultations. These consultations involve a balanced mix of both existing clients and prospective ones, allowing me to maintain and nurture ongoing relationships while also exploring new opportunities for growth. To ensure a well-organised schedule, I am responsible for arranging my appointments up to two weeks in advance, providing additional time for preparation and follow-up.

In addition to one-on-one consultations, I also dedicate a significant portion of my time to booking and preparing group presentations for various Public Sector bodies. These presentations are integral to wellbeing initiatives designed to keep staff informed about the latest changes in pension regulations.

Moreover, they help employees gain a better understanding of their individual pension schemes, thereby empowering them to make more informed financial decisions. This combination of personal consultations and group presentations allows me to effectively support a wide range of clients and contribute to their financial wellbeing.

 

5.  What do you enjoy about your job? 

I enjoy being a financial advisor because it allows me to build meaningful relationships with my clients and assist them in achieving their financial goals. Helping clients navigate their financial challenges and watching them succeed is incredibly rewarding. The opportunity to make a positive impact on their lives through personalised advice and support is what makes this profession fulfilling for me.

 

6.   What are the challenges?

The challenges I face with my current role are time management and staying organised, which are crucial for maintaining efficiency and productivity.

Time management involves prioritising tasks, allocating appropriate time to each, and avoiding procrastination. Challenges may arise from conflicting deadlines, unexpected tasks, or difficulty estimating time for different activities. Staying organised requires effective systems for managing information, documents, and tasks. Challenges might include maintaining a clutter-free workspace, keeping track of deadlines and appointments, and ensuring all necessary materials are readily accessible.

Overcoming these challenges involves developing strategies for myself  such as creating schedules or to-do lists, setting realistic goals, using tools like calendars or task management apps, and periodically reassessing and adjusting your methods to improve efficiency. With proactive planning and consistent effort,  I can enhance my ability to manage time effectively and maintain organisational clarity in your job.

7.   Describe the work culture in the company.

The company’s work environment is characterised by a fast-paced culture, yet it emphasises shared learning and continuous training. Initially, there is a substantial amount of information to absorb, with the company’s main objective being to ensure employees are thoroughly prepared and trained before client consultations. Despite this, there is no micromanagement; as long as you deliver results, you are trusted to work independently and continue performing effectively.

 

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

If you’re thinking about making a career in financial services with us, here’s my advice: see it as more than just a job—it’s about committing to something fulfilling and rewarding. You’ll need to be a hard worker who can stay focused because the work requires dedication and persistence. It’s important to think about where you want to go in the long run and set your goals accordingly. Here, you’ll find that the more work you put in, the more you’ll get out of it. It’s a great place to grow and feel satisfied with what you achieve.

 

9.   Is there something unique or interesting about your company that you’d like to share with potential jobseekers?  

The best thing about IPF is definitely the people I work with. I actually get to know everyone on the IPF team personally. It creates a really supportive atmosphere and we have strong relationships.

Our training is also great. If I need help with something, I can learn at my own pace by asking more experienced colleagues. They are always happy to help out, which makes learning here really effective and enjoyable.

10. Any additional questions or details that you consider relevant to your recent promotion journey?

Growing up, I always had a passion for building a career in the financial services industry, but I wasn’t sure how to make that dream a reality. I studied International Business at university, though I found that much of what I learned didn’t directly apply to my current role. What I really value about IPF is how they take you on board and support your education to become a well-rounded financial advisor. What sets IPF apart is their approach of starting everyone in an assistant financial advisor role and helping them grow within the company. This means that everyone, including seniors and managers know what it’s like to be in that position and is always ready to lend a hand. It creates a supportive environment where learning and career development are actively encouraged and supported.