Paraplanner
Job Description:Paraplanners help financial advisers with technical and administrative tasks.
Job Category:What you will do:
As a paraplanner, you’ll:
- prepare and write finance reports
- research financial funds and products
- provide admin support to financial advisers
- put together cash flow analysis
- keep client records up to date
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of economics and accounting
maths knowledge - customer service skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- sensitivity and understanding
- persistence and determination (ambition/drive)
- analytical thinking skills (creative skills)
- excellent verbal communication skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Paraplanner, specific GCSE (or equivalent) subjects are not typically required. However, having a strong educational foundation in certain subjects can be beneficial for developing the skills and knowledge necessary for this career. Paraplanners work closely with financial advisors and provide support in areas like research, analysis, and documentation related to financial planning and investment advice.
While specific subjects are not mandatory, here are some subjects that can be helpful:
- Mathematics: Strong mathematical skills are important for financial calculations, budgeting, and analysing financial data.
- English Language: Effective communication skills, including written and verbal communication, are essential for documenting financial plans, preparing reports, and communicating with clients and financial advisors.
- Business Studies or Economics (optional): Courses related to business principles, economics, and finance can provide a foundational understanding of financial concepts and industry terminology.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computer software for data analysis, financial modelling, and document preparation is important in financial planning.
- Accounting (optional): Knowledge of basic accounting principles can be beneficial for understanding financial statements and reports.
- Statistics (optional): Understanding statistical concepts and methods can be valuable for data analysis and financial modelling.
While specific subjects are not mandatory, having a general education that includes strong mathematical and communication skills, an understanding of financial concepts, and proficiency in using technology can be advantageous for a career as a Paraplanner.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
College
You could do a college course which would teach you some of the skills and knowledge you need to be a paraplanner.
Relevant subjects include:
- Level 3 Certificate In Regulated Financial Services Operations
- T Level in Finance
- Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning
Apprenticeship
You could do a Paraplanner Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship.
This will take around 2 years to complete and will include a mix of learning on the job and studying at college.
Work
You could join a company as a trainee and learn on the job.
Your employer might want you to do qualification while you train.
Working Hours and Environment:
Typically you could work 35 to 38 hours a week, occasionally including evenings or weekends.
You could work at a client’s business, in an office or remotely.
Career Path & Progression:
You could:
- specialise in an area of finance like technology or pensions
- train to become a financial adviser
- become self employed, working as a freelance paraplanner