– Pareto asks industry to follow suit and create a sustainable in-flow of talent –
Pareto Financial Planning, the award-winning financial services business based in the heart of Manchester, has announced the successful completion of the first intake of its ‘Future in Finance’ Work Experience Programme, with overwhelming demand highlighting the appetite among young people for careers in financial planning.
More than 60 people applied for the inaugural programme, with 14 participants selected to take part in a structured week designed to provide practical experience across every aspect of the business. Through a combination of presentations, workshops, mentoring and hands-on learning, participants gained first-hand insight into financial planning, client servicing, employee benefits and the wider operations that support the delivery of financial advice.
The programme, created as part of Pareto’s commitment to developing future talent within the profession, gave participants the opportunity to learn from experienced advisers and business leaders while exploring the many career opportunities available within financial services.
Following the success of the first programme, Pareto plans to build on the format for future intakes by introducing additional interactive case studies and more hands-on practical sessions, while retaining the structured approach that ensured participants received a comprehensive overview of the financial planning profession.
John Stevenson, Founder and Director of Pareto Financial Planning, said: “Future in Finance was created to give something back to our profession. By giving young people practical experience and an insight into the real value of financial advice, we’re not only supporting their future careers, we’re investing in the future of our industry. If we can help even a handful of people take that first step, we’ve achieved something truly worthwhile.
“As an industry, we have a responsibility to stop waiting for someone else to solve the talent shortage. Every financial planning firm has knowledge, experience and people that could inspire the next generation. Whether it’s one student or twenty, opening your doors can change someone’s career. If more firms committed to programmes like Future in Finance, we’d build a stronger, more diverse and more sustainable profession for decades to come.” he finished.
Participant feedback reflected the impact the programme had on those taking part.
Jolomi Sholuwa said: “This week has made me know more about my career path and how to achieve it.”
Maisie Doyle said: “Future in Finance has really inspired me to pursue financial advice. It aligns with a career I feel would suit me and being exposed to a culture like Pareto and Luna has made me excited about my future.”
Husna Sirfraz said: “Future in Finance has made me feel more confident in the career I want to do and what skills I need to improve upon. Thank you for the opportunity this week has given me.”
George Howard added: “I always thought I might like to work in finance but now I am sure that it is what I want to do.”
The success of the inaugural Future in Finance programme reinforces Pareto’s commitment to supporting the future of the financial advice profession by creating meaningful opportunities for young people to explore careers in the sector and develop the skills needed to succeed.
