In light of National Apprenticeship Week 2024 (5th-11th February), we shared our story with the local press, including the reasons why we champion apprenticeships. Historically considered a 'non-traditional route', apprenticeships are now gaining popularity, and for good reason. They are really valuable to career development.
As former apprentices ourselves (Ben & Danielle), and having appointed Rav who we are supporting through the CII Aspire Apprenticeship to become a qualified Financial Adviser, we're keen to spread the word about vocational professional routes. You can study to become Chartered whilst learning on the job, a win-win in our book! We hope relaying our experience plays a small part in breaking barriers to entering the Financial Services industry, which hasn't always been accessible to all backgrounds.
You can read more in the latest press release. Either click through to East Midlands Business Link below or keep scrolling on this page...
Nottinghamshire-based wealth management company Stephen Eve Financial Planning has helped over 70 clients since its inception in 2022 and now manages £25m of client funds.
It was set up by Chartered Financial Planner Ben Slater and marketing specialist Danielle Slater, who are both under 30, began their careers via apprenticeships, and are passionate about opening financial careers via on-the-job training and education.
Based in Regent Street in Nottingham city centre, Stephen Eve Financial Planning helps its clients achieve their financial aspirations by providing a range of services including retirement planning, investment advice and cash-flow analysis.
Ben Slater began his career in wealth management aged 18 by undertaking an apprenticeship with The RU Group where his talent was spotted and developed. In 2019, he became one of the youngest Chartered Financial Planners in the UK and also scooped the ‘High Achiever of the Year’ award from the Chartered Insurance Institute. He is shortlisted for the 2024 Professional Adviser Young Achiever of the Year.
Danielle specialises in marketing strategy, particularly around the customer journey and building loyalty, from acquisition to retention. She began her career completing a Future Leaders apprenticeship at Boots, where she eventually became a Client Manager whilst also running her own marketing consultancy business. She has delivered campaigns for Boots, Chanel, Dior, Philips, L’Oréal as well as numerous SMEs across the Midlands.
Both Ben and Danielle are keen to break barriers in the Financial Services sector by making financial advice accessible to people of all backgrounds and raising awareness of the career opportunities in the field, where just 6 percent of advisers are under the age of 30, with the plurality being over 50.
Stephen Eve Financial Planning recently bolstered their team by appointing Trainee Paraplanner, Rav Jackson who they are now supporting through the CII Aspire Financial Adviser apprenticeship programme. Rav will complete 6 exams and vocational training to become a qualified Financial Planner.
Commenting on Rav’s appointment, Danielle Slater said: “We strongly believe in supporting young people through providing access to mentorship and a business who can support their employment aspirations. I am excited to have Rav on board and to be laying further foundations in the growth of our business.”
Ben Slater comments: “It has been a successful first year for the business and we are delighted that so many people have trusted us to look after their financial future. Throughout my career, I have always valued continual professional development and training very highly, and this is a founding principal of Stephen Eve. Having in depth and up-to date knowledge means we can help our clients achieve their financial ambitions.”
