At a Glance
- Tasks: Support our Financial Planning team by preparing detailed suitability reports and managing client cases.
- Company: Join a vibrant financial services firm committed to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive culture, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Modern office in Derry with a focus on teamwork and continuous improvement.
- Why this job: Take ownership of client cases and deepen your technical expertise in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Proven paraplanning experience and a Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning or equivalent.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Respond to client queries and clarify technical details post-meeting.
- Attend client meetings when required to support advisers and explain recommendations.
- 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.
- Update templates and tools in line with regulatory or product changes.
- Suggest workflow improvements to enhance efficiency and consistency.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Paraplanner in Londonderry employer: Benchmark Capital
At Benchmark, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work culture in our Derry office. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through mentorship opportunities and a focus on continuous professional development, all within a vibrant city that enhances both work-life balance and community engagement. Join us to be part of a diverse team where your contributions are valued, and you can thrive in a modern, well-equipped workspace dedicated to delivering high-quality financial advice.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Paraplanner in Londonderry
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Benchmark Capital. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Paraplanner in Londonderry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Benchmark Capital.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Benchmark Capital's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Benchmark Capital
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Benchmark Capital.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Benchmark Capital will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Benchmark Capital employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
