About Us Armstrong Watson are a trusted and leading independent Accountancy and Business Advisory firm based in the North of England and Scotland. Our services and advice are all centred around our Quest to support our clients to achieve prosperity, a secure future and peace of mind, which cannot be achieved without the expertise of our dedicated and valued colleagues. With approximately 700 colleagues situated across 19 offices, our people and our culture are at the heart of what we do. We recognise the unique impact we have on not only our clients, but also our colleagues, and the communities in which we operate. Our success is dependent on every colleague embracing all four of our core values: Honesty, Humanity, Trust and Passion. The Role We are now recruiting for a Financial Planning Assistant to join our Financial Planning Team. The purpose of this role is to provide first line administrative and technical support to a Financial Planning Consultant and act as the main point of contact for clients, ensuring that a high level of customer service is provided to all. We would be happy to house the successful candidate in any of the following of our offices: Penrith, Carlisle and Kendal. There will also be the option of working from home (up to) 2 days each week once fully trained. The main elements of this role will include: Providing relevant documentation to the Financial Planning Consultant ahead of client meetings Obtaining relevant research relating to proposed advice Compiling suitability letters based on the advice being given Processing and contributing towards new business Responding to client queries Ensuring accurate completion of compliance requirements Liaising with Life offices and providers Maintaining client records on Xplan Ensuring the administrative requirements are completed for the Client Review Process Please note that we will not be accepting candidates from agency suppliers in connection with this vacancy. The Candidate In order to fulfil the responsibilities of the position, we would like candidates to be / have: At least 2 years' experience of working in a similar or equivalent position within Financial Services A Full UK Driving Licence (desirable not essential requirement) Comfortable working in a fast paced environment A dedicated team player, and willing to assist colleagues within the team where possible Able to prioritise workloads under strict deadlines and work well under pressure Able to use initiative and have great organisation / problem solving skills Keen to become part of an innovative and dynamic team Committed to delivering an exceptional customer service experience to all clients The Benefits In return for your hard work helping us shape our future growth and development; we will provide a competitive salary and a positive benefits package which includes: Salary Sacrifice Employer Contribution Pension Scheme including Life Cover (4x salary) and Income Protection Competitive Annual Leave entitlement up to 26 days, plus Bank Holidays Annual Leave Purchase Scheme allowing you to buy up to 5 additional days annual leave each year Smart Working Policy, giving you the ability to balance home and remote working Health Shield Cash Plan (cash back on a range of Health benefits and discounts on holidays, fashion and entertainment) Employee Assistance Programme (24/7 confidential support for wellbeing and health) Paid flu jabs and eye tests Introductory Commission Scheme (financial reward if you refer a new client) Employee Referral Scheme (financial reward if you refer new AW colleagues) enabling you to claim up to £2,500 for each referral Ongoing access to online training courses and materials Paid professional membership fees Charity of the Month Colleague of the Month Subsidised social events throughout the year In addition to all the benefits you would expect from an award winning employer, you will be given the utmost encouragement and support to develop your career further. When you’re with us we’re with you.