Learning at Work Week: Rose Evans, Trainee Financial Planner

We invest heavily in the development of our staff whether it’s from their colleagues, internal development activities, financial planning exams, or other formal qualifications.

This year, for Learning at Work Week, we want to highlight our Trainee Financial Planner Development Programme, which combines on-the-job training with a suite of skills-based learning to support those on the road to becoming a Lifestyle Financial Planner to take the next step in their career.

The theme for this year’s Learning at Work Week is ‘Learning Power’, which “explores how lifelong and continual learning gives us power to change, grow and achieve our individual, team and organisational goals”.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your past experience 

I’m 25 and from South London, where I have lived all my life. I have A-Levels in History, English Literature and Business, and a degree in History from the University of Southampton. Outside of work I enjoy travelling, staying active and socialising with friends.

After graduating during COVID, I wasn’t sure which career path to take. In August 2020, I started as a Client Relationship Assistant at a Financial Planning firm, which Attivo later acquired. My role involved helping the Financial Planner prepare meeting packs, organise client reviews and update records.

After joining Attivo the opportunity came up to begin working towards my Level 4 Diploma, and I was really pleased to complete this in June the following year.

Following completion of the exams, I took a brief career break and travelled Southeast Asia and Australia before returning to Attivo in April 2023 as a Trainee Financial Planner (TFP).

What drew you to the TFP programme in the first place?

I applied for the TFP programme because I thought it would be a great way to learn directly from Financial Planners, whilst also getting to attend client meetings and assist in the advice process.

What did you hope to achieve?

My main aim was to enhance my ability to communicate effectively with clients and feel more assured during interactions. Before this role, I lacked experience in gathering the necessary information for client reviews or explaining the rationale behind recommendations. Attending meetings alongside the Financial Planner has been incredibly valuable, and I continue to learn in this aspect.

How has the TFP programme helped you achieve your personal goals?

The TFP programme has been great for my personal development. It has enabled me to reaffirm the things I have learnt through exams and understand the advice process from start to finish, so eventually when I am responsible for my own clients, I’ll be better prepared.

Is there anything you’ve learnt that you weren’t expecting?

During my training, I’ve been tasked with writing Suitability Reports, which are detailed summaries explaining why a Financial Planner recommends a specific solution. This experience has provided me with valuable insights into investments and the multitude of factors that must be taken into account before reaching a resolution.

What are the highlights of your experience so far?

A standout aspect of my role is creating cashflow models tailored to clients’ situations and goals, and then discussing them in person. It’s rewarding to demonstrate that their objectives are achievable or to assist them in refining their plans if needed. I’ve also been able to work on complex Inheritance Tax planning cases, which I find really interesting.

What are your next steps?

I hope to complete my Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning in the next 6-12 months and move into the Associate Financial Planner role when the time is right.

Would you recommend the TFP programme?

Yes, definitely. If you are aiming to pursue a career in financial services, I believe that the TFP role offers a fantastic opportunity to gain first hand insights from experienced professionals who have been in the industry for years.

Thanks, Rose!

If you’d like to speak to us about embarking on our Trainee Financial Planner Development Programme, get in touch with us today.

If you’d like to explore your options for financial planning, why not talk to Attivo? Our team of Chartered Financial Planners happy to help to make the process a smooth one. Call us on 01242 585444 or clientservices@attivo.co.uk.