At Robson Laidler Wealth we know a great client relationship is built on transparency and trust and with that in mind we thought we would delve into the lives of our advisers, to find out more about them and their daily routine at work and to help you get to know us better.
This month we talk to Financial Planner Emma Purvis who has worked for Robson Laidler Wealth since 2008. Emma transitioned from a ‘behind the scenes’ role into an advisory role having developed many great relationships with our clients over the years. Emma has recently turned 40 (although may sometimes choose not to confirm this) and lives in South Shields with her partner Michael, three stepchildren and rescue dog Stanley.
Hi Emma, tell us about your role at Robson Laidler Wealth?
I am one of three Financial Planners at Robson Laidler Wealth and I also head up Operations & Compliance. We have a small but dynamic team of Administrators, Paraplanners and Financial Planners who work closely together to make sure our clients receive the best advice and the best possible service. My day consists of speaking with and advising clients and making sure we have the right policies and processes in place to be both compliant and operate efficiently.
And what areas do you specialise in?
We specialise in comprehensive financial planning for individuals, business owners and medical professionals. Helping clients to understand where they are now, where they want to be in future and how they are going to get there. Most of our work is in retirement and investment planning.
How do you prefer to start your working day?
I prefer to start my day with a brisk walk with the dog and then I head into the office for a nice fresh coffee and to answer emails or start my client meetings. In reality, it often starts with me shouting up the stairs to my stepdaughters to hurry up or trying to get them to decide if they would like a ponytail or plait in their hair!
What would you say led you to a career in financial services?
I never actually had a career path in mind as a youngster, but I was lucky enough to be placed in a financial planning firm as a temp. I really enjoyed the office environment and took great interest in the financial planning journey. I joined Robson Laidler as an Administrator then moved into a Paraplanner role. It was as a Paraplanner where you’re helping the Adviser with analysis and research that I realised I wanted to be the one building the relationship with the client and presenting the advice, so I went on to complete my Diploma in Financial Planning and qualify as a Financial Planner.
Can you tell us the three best things about being a financial adviser?
It would be that it allows me to form great relationships and help lots of different clients, all with very different goals. Seeing our clients achieve their objectives gives me great satisfaction, I mean who doesn’t want to help people on their journey and give them peace of mind?
How do you like to spend a day off?
I like to spend it with my family and my dog, preferably somewhere scenic in our Campervan. I like nothing better than drinking a nice hot brew (or glass of wine, depending on the time of day of course!) with my feet up, overlooking a beautiful mountain or lake.
Can you name one thing most people don’t know about you?
I have done a sky dive! Both terrifying and exhilarating! I’m afraid of heights and my instructor had to peel my fingers from the door of the plane to get me out but at least I can say I’ve done it. I would like to think that I would do it again if given the chance but probably not.
If you could trade places with anyone for a day, who would you choose?
Hmmm now that is a difficult one… Maybe Deborah Meaden? She’s a successful businesswoman and entrepreneur but also an advocate for sustainable living and a patron of many animal charities. I think I could learn a lot from her in a day. I’d also be really happy just to spend the day at her house (which I’m sure is fabulous) but more importantly as I believe she has lots of animals and I’m a sucker for them.
Do you have anywhere on your must visit list?
There are just too many on my list! Ideally, I would like to pack up and travel the world in my van. Thankfully I have my own financial plan to work from, so I know when this dream becomes realistic.
And finally, saving the best until last, what is your best joke?
Why did the scarecrow get promoted… because he was outstanding in his field.
You can get in touch with Emma Purvis via LinkedIn, or email at: epurvis@robson-laidler.co.uk
For more information about Robson Laidler Wealth, visit: robson-laidler.co.uk/wealth