When asked how long I have been in the financial services industry, I am always met with surprised faces.

My first role within financial services was an administrative support role to my then Managing Director, David Hurst in 2010.  My duties included responding to client queries, preparing for meetings and raising general enquiries with providers.  I built strong relationships with clients in this role, and I learnt the value of client care.

I began my professional studies in 2013 to build my knowledge and understand the vast array of financial jargon in our industry.  I found that my new knowledge and understanding helped me to communicate finance clearly to our clients.  A few exams away from achieving my Diploma, and I took maternity leave to have my daughter, Isla.

Having just celebrated my 12^th year at the firm, I am proud to be a Chartered Financial Planner. When I took maternity leave, there was no doubt in my mind that I would return and qualify as a Financial Adviser.  I have now been advising for 5 and a half years, and I achieved my Chartered status in October 2022. I will not deny that it was tough, but I remained determined and committed throughout.

It was a big step to move from support role to Adviser, but looking back, it was the best step I ever made.  Our clients seek advice, guidance and support during important and even difficult periods of their lives, and I am grateful for their trust in me.  I have been fortunate throughout my career to work alongside a kind and supportive team and feel supported by all of my clients.  It may not have been a career laid out for me, but I have and will continue to enjoy it every day.

What advice would you give to women considering a career in financial planning?

You don’t need to necessarily start off with an in-depth knowledge of finance or know exactly what you want to do, but if you have an interest in finance, good people skills, enjoy helping and are willing to dedicate yourself to learning – financial planning is an excellent career choice more and more women are entering and succeeding in.

It is also important to remember that even the most driven women shouldn’t be afraid to have a have a family. It is possible to have both a career and family, it can just involve a bit of juggling.

To speak to Georgia or the team at Craven Street Wealth regarding your own financial planning needs, or a career in financial services, please contact us on 0330 320 9280, email info@cravenstreetwealth.com or complete our online enquiry form.