What’s your current role – and what does this involve?
My current role is pension investments team manager. This means I look after members’ investments; my team supports them with switching investments, answering any investment queries they might have as well as building lifestyles and helping to launch funds. As a manager, part of my role also includes leading and motivating the team and communicating with different stakeholders across the business.
What’s the best thing about your job — and the worst?
The best thing is the opportunity to support and mentor my team. Seeing them grow, progress and enjoy their work at L&G is very rewarding. The toughest part is making decisions that can impact the team: these types of tasks can be emotionally taxing.
What made you apply for a job in the pension industry?
During the Covid-19 pandemic, I realised I wanted to work in an industry that prioritises the wellbeing of its people and offers more opportunities for learning and career progression. The pension industry stood out to me as a field where I could leverage my skills while contributing to the financial security and future planning of individuals.
What role do you see yourself working in 10 years from now?
In the next decade, I want to develop my leadership skills, deepen my industry knowledge, and build a strong track record of successful team development, and envision myself in a head of area role. I am particularly drawn to this because it offers the opportunity to influence strategic decisions, mentor and support a larger team and drive significant business growth. I believe that my experience as a team manager has provided me with a solid foundation and I am eager to take on new challenges that will prepare me for a leadership position.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
It is to lead from the front and never ask someone to do something you wouldn’t do yourself. This principle has guided me throughout my career, emphasising the importance of setting a positive example and earning the respect of my team.
What should the pensions industry be doing to attract more young people into it, and to engage younger savers?
We need to speak to members on the channels they use most. That’s why we launched on TikTok to help engage younger audiences, while the new series of our award winning ‘A Little Bit Richer’ podcast has been designed to support people in their 20s and early 30s by providing information which can help improve longer term financial outcomes. Industry wide campaigns, like Pay your Pension some Attention are also hugely helpful. I also believe there needs to be enhanced financial education in schools educating the importance of pensions and financial planning.
Lastly offer internships and apprenticeships which provides hands on experience giving an understanding of the industry. In a few months I will be assisting with a work experience programme L&G are providing to students local to our Cardiff and Hove offices.
What was your dream job when you were at school?
A zookeeper! I’ve always loved animals and had lots of pets, I currently have a pet dog and tortoise.
