Paraplanner

We are looking for an experienced Paraplanner to support our Financial Planning team in delivering high-quality advice and client outcomes.

Department: Client Services

Location: Shrewsbury

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 cash‑flow 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.
• 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.

Benefits and Work Environment:

You’ll be based at our Shrewsbury office, a well‑established regional location that supports close collaboration and consistent client delivery. The workspace is modern and well equipped, providing a professional setting that supports focus, efficiency, and teamwork.

Equal Opportunities Statement:

Benchmark is an equal opportunities employer. You are 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.