A Chartered Financial Planning firm has taken on a new trainee Paraplanner who bosses aim to elevate to Chartered status.

Eldon Financial Planning, based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, has appointed James Hunt, aged 24. He had months experience working as an administrator at an IFA firm before joining.

Mr Hunt sought out a new role because he wanted to do holistic Financial Planning and he plans to work his way up the qualification ladder. He has a degree in International Finance & Banking.

Chartered Financial Planner Gemma Siddle FPFS, APP, CFPTM, director of client services at Eldon, told FP Today: “We have a complex hiring process done partly by a recruitment firm and partly by ourselves which looks at Belbin profile (preferences for work areas), involves technical assessments and interviews.

“James impressed us from day one with his strong belief in true planning and conviction that qualifications are vital. He sat R01 and R02 before coming here and just passed R03.

“We plan to take him to Chartered status to join the rest of the advising and Paraplanning team here.”

Mr Hunt told FP Today: “When I met with Gemma and Tony Connor (director) for an interview, the differences in companies became very apparent to me.

“Even though the recruitment process was extremely thorough and challenging, it highlighted to me the depth and level of detail Eldon go to.

“I was instantly attracted to Eldon and was in awe at the technical systems used and how they apply and use these both with clients and in day to day use behind the scenes. The holistic approach to Financial Planning was the kind of company I had always wanted to work for.

“Not only this, but the technical and professional development that is provided here at Eldon is second to none. The support is there to help individuals do the best they can with both their studies and their development.

“Joining Eldon, I feel proud to be working for such a reputable, award winning company and look forward to learning and working here for years to come.”