“I joined Ardent in June 2021 after completing my studies for a Masters in Physics from the University of York. I had been interested in finances and investment management for several years before joining Ardent, and before applying for jobs I started independent study through the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) Diploma in Financial Planning, which helped secure the position with Ardent and gave me a great head start in working towards the financial adviser role. 

My first position was as a Client Relationship Administrator which I held for around 18 months. During this time, I supported the financial advisers with client administration tasks, such as liaising with clients, preparing reports prior to meetings, and implementing portfolio changes agreed by the adviser. I also sat in on client meetings to take notes and observe the process, which helped accelerate my learning and particularly my communication and trust-building skills. 

In April 2023, I transitioned into a Client Relationship Manager role, which included more involvement in creating cashflow models, managing client enquiries, completing internal audits of client accounts, and undertaking any changes or actions from the client meetings. 

Finally, in April 2025, I moved into my current role of Financial Planner. A typical day as a financial planner is quite varied, with very few days ever looking the same. The most important part of any day is sitting down with new and existing clients to review their financial plans, update our models, and ensure their assets are working with them to provide the lifestyle they want to live. Financial planning involves a deep dive into every aspect of a client’s finances, from employment income, pensions, and investments to the softer facts of understanding what kind of life they want to live, what amount is “enough”, and how to effectively utilise their assets to help facilitate that lifestyle. 

Outside of meetings, I review client investment portfolios, keep abreast of market updates and developments, and answer client enquiries. Providing our clients with excellent service is a group effort from every member of the Ardent team, and that means working together at every step of the process and going above and beyond.”