Paraplanner in Derry, Londonderry

We are looking for an experienced Paraplanner to support our Financial Planning team in delivering high-quality advice and client outcomes. You will work within a cross-functional "Pod" alongside Financial Planners and Client Support Executives, taking ownership of cases, providing technical insight, and ensuring recommendations are accurate, compliant, and client-focused. This role suits a paraplanner who wants real responsibility, a varied caseload, and the opportunity to deepen technical expertise within a well-structured advice environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Case Ownership
  • Prepare detailed, compliant suitability reports tailored to individual client needs.
  • Take full ownership of cases from start to finish, ensuring accuracy and alignment with client objectives.
  • Manage complex workloads independently, prioritising tasks to meet deadlines.
• Adviser Collaboration
  • Work closely with advisers to understand client goals and develop strategies.
  • Proactively gather outstanding information and documentation.
  • Contribute to technical discussions and best practice initiatives.
• Technical Expertise
  • Research and analyse financial products, investments, pensions, and tax planning opportunities.
  • Prepare technical illustrations, projections, and recommendations.
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of legislation, FCA guidance, and market trends.
• Client Interaction
  • Respond to client queries and clarify technical details post-meeting.
  • Attend client meetings when required to support advisers and explain recommendations.
• Compliance & Quality
  • Ensure all work meets FCA standards and internal compliance requirements.
  • Review and sign off reports prepared by junior team members, providing feedback.
  • Keep documentation audit-ready and support compliance process improvements.
• Process & Template Management
  • Update templates and tools in line with regulatory or product changes.
  • Suggest workflow improvements to enhance efficiency and consistency.
• Leadership & Development
  • Mentor and coach junior paraplanners, providing technical guidance and training.
  • Where applicable, manage team performance and development.
  • Promote collaboration and continuous professional development within the team.
• Additional Responsibilities
  • Work with compliance, operations, and investment teams to streamline advice processes.
  • Support audits and maintain risk awareness.
  • Champion effective use of financial planning software and data tools.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise

• Proven paraplanning experience is essential.
• Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning (CII) or equivalent, or working towards it.
• Typically 1 to 3 years’ paraplanning experience, or 5+ years’ relevant experience if not yet qualified.

Technical Expertise

• Strong knowledge of retail investments, pensions, savings, and protection products.
• Solid understanding of suitability report requirements, structure, and regulatory expectations.
• Experience producing suitability reports, completing cashflow modelling, and conducting technical research.

Communication and Collaboration

• Clear and effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Confident dealing with stakeholders at all levels.
• Collaborative approach, with the ability to build relationships across internal teams and external partners.

Systems and Tools

• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Willingness to develop expertise in internal systems, including Enable, Fusion, and Wealth Platform.

Personal Attributes

• Well organised, with strong attention to detail.
• Able to manage workload and prioritise effectively.
• Positive and adaptable, with a mindset open to change.
• Aligned to company values and culture, with a focus on continuous improvement.

The base You’ll be based at our Derry office, a key regional location that supports collaboration and strong client delivery. Located in a vibrant and growing city, the office combines a close-knit working environment with access to local amenities and transport links. The workspace is modern and well equipped, providing a professional setting that supports focus, efficiency, and teamwork. We promote a balanced approach to work and value a culture where colleagues feel supported, connected, and able to perform at their best.

We're looking for the best, whoever they are. We know that diverse perspectives and an inclusive culture where all can succeed lead to better decisions and stronger outcomes for the company, its clients and its employees. That’s why inclusion and diversity are strategic priorities for us. We’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer. You’re welcome at Benchmark regardless of your age, disability, gender identity or expression, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or socio-economic background. We’re building a workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to thrive.