An Interview with Katherine Pautard

Why did you get into Financial Planning – is it something you always wanted to do?

Like a lot of Financial Planners, it was a career that found me. During school I was set on becoming a Midwife; I chose my GCSE and A-levels based on this and applied to university. However, after a few months of working in a hospital in my gap year, I realised I wasn’t quite ready for the reality that comes with the medical world.

Trying to work out where to go next, I took a temping job at a Pension and Life Office and my journey in the Financial Planning industry began. I now have 11 years industry experience; I am a Certified Financial Planner CFP™ and was awarded Rising Star of the Year 2022 at the Professional Adviser Awards.

The passion I have for my role, becoming a part of my clients’ journeys and helping them achieve their financial aspirations, is what spurs me on to succeed.

I never envisioned I would be a Financial Planner, and it is very different to delivering babies, but I couldn’t be more grateful for my role!

Have you learned from other Financial Planners during your journey?

Four years ago, when I started at Wealth Matters, I had a good knowledge of the industry, pensions, investments etc. However, Julian’s passion to provide the best possible service to his clients, meant my learning was incredibly enhanced. I have been able to shadow and learn from our strong team of Financial Planners and have access to some incredible trainers and experts in the industry.

As an Accredited Financial Planning Firm, I attend multiple conferences and seminars every year, always learning something new. This industry is constantly adapting, so you must continue your hunger for knowledge.

What is your greatest achievement so far?

Julian wrote an article in the April Newsletter about his best day in business: the day that my colleague Carmen and I received our results to become Certified Financial Planners CFP™.

After three years of studying, taking exams, coursework and working with my own clients, those three letters (CFP) meant the world to me. I would say that has been my greatest achievement so far.

What are your goals for the future?

I love working at Wealth Matters, the staff, my clients, the values, and I can’t wait to become a Partner here. I want to continue to provide advice, to help my clients reach financial independence and to watch them do the things that really matter to them.

I also want to build my own plan for financial independence. You have to practice what you preach!