After graduating in Economics at the University of Exeter, Gemma worked for a small NGO in Cameroon ‘an incredible experience, rewarding and very character building!’ On her return she focused on becoming a financial adviser ‘I have always had a thirst for learning more about finance and economics, having a career in finance was a definitive choice. Having said this I have never been motivated by money and was looking for a career where I could help people and there finance. Becoming a financial adviser was a pretty clear cut decision!’
She started her career in a small IFA practice, growing her own client base and gaining CII qualifications. Today she works for one of the largest chartered IFA firms in London; Westminster Wealth Management, heading up the Estate and Inheritance tax department. She has gained Chartered status and is a Fellow of the PFS – the highest qualification a financial adviser can hold. She has gained qualifications with the Society of Trust and Estate practitioners and now specialises in advising clients in the later years, focusing on income requirements and mitigating Inheritance tax.
She prides herself on looking after her clients for the long term, developing fostered client relationships for years to come. The key to her success is ‘delivering expert advice at a fair price and putting clients at the forefront of her proposition.’ She volunteers at Westminster Citizens Advice, helping people who are experiencing financial difficulties.
Out of the work place Gemma enjoys many a sporting challenge including 100 mile cycle and a couple of half an iron mans, fundraising for a charity close to her heart the Gurkha Welfare trust. Next year she has her sights on doing an ironman 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bicycle ride and a marathon to finish!