During Sorted Money Month, we are showcasing our talented team and our different job roles at Cambridge Partners. We want to enable you to ‘Push Pause’ to see if a career in investing could be something for you. We have many amazing wāhine at Cambridge Partners who thrive in our progressive learning environment. All roles have pathways to advance your career. This week we’re spotlighting our newest Financial Adviser, Margot Lensen.
What do you need to become a Financial Adviser?
To be a Financial Adviser, you need to have a New Zealand Certificate in Financial Services Level 5 (or equivalent) qualification.
Margot was previously working as an Insurance Adviser and could use her existing Level 5 qualification, study some additional papers, and then complete her financial services qualification. She also completed our internal ‘competent adviser programme’, our standard of quality and excellence that all advisers complete.
About Margot
Margot joined the team in early 2022 as an Associate Adviser after four years as a Life and Health Insurance Adviser. She became a Financial Adviser through the Cambridge Partners’ learning and career pathway and now serves a wide range of clients. Her combined years of experience have helped clients protect their assets and reach their financial goals.
After graduating from university, Margot worked for the New Zealand Police in their communications team before moving into the insurance and investment industry. Margot knew that she wanted a career helping people and finds financial planning with her clients rewarding as it provides them with the confidence and trust to know they are on track. Growing up on the family farm in Geraldine, Margot has a real passion for the agricultural industry and understands the complexities they can face. She enjoys helping these clients navigate the transition period of succession planning and enabling confidence for the next phase.
A day in the life of Margot
Morning Routine:
Margot starts the day by reviewing the latest financial news, market updates, and economic indicators to stay informed about any developments that may impact her client’s financial plans and investment portfolios.
Client Meeting Preparation:
A big part of any day is in preparing for client meetings. Margot reviews agendas and gathers relevant information about each client’s financial situation, goals, and any recent changes in their circumstances.
Client Meetings:
These meetings can cover a range of topics, such as retirement planning, investment strategies, tax optimisation, estate planning, and risk management. During the meetings, Margot actively listens to the client’s needs, asks questions, and provides personalised financial advice based on their individual goals and risk tolerance.
Business Development and Networking:
Margot is developing her professional networks and focuses her time towards growing her contacts throughout the agricultural sector. She connects with potential clients, attends industry events, and participates in networking opportunities to grow her client base and build professional relationships.
Administrative Tasks:
Various administrative tasks include updating client records, documenting meeting notes, responding to emails, and scheduling future appointments. Margot has a fantastic Client Services Manager who handles most of these administrative duties.
Continuing Education:
As the financial industry evolves, Margot dedicates time to continuing education and staying current with industry trends, new financial products, and changes in regulations. This may involve reading financial publications, attending webinars, or taking online courses.
If you want to learn more about our Associate Adviser career pathway, email info@cambridgepartners.co.nz. .
Dominic Sheehan, Head of Financial Advice
8 August 2023