Lauren McHenry of Manchester firm Pareto Financial Planning has achieved Chartered Financial Planner status after starting at the firm as a trainee Paraplanner in 2018.

Ms McHenry progressed through the company’s fully-funded qualification and support programme in six years.

She graduated from Newcastle University in 2009 with a law degree before starting her career in the financial services industry.

She has now been working in the profession for 12 years, holding various roles including technical support and Paraplanning. Ms McHenry joined Pareto in 2018 after relocating from London to Manchester.

Suzanne Chadwick, head of training and development at Pareto Financial Planning, said: “Lauren’s journey represents an incredible combination of application and hard work together with Pareto’s commitment to colleague development.”

She said the firm provides financial support for qualification attainment as well as fully-expensed study material, paid time off for revision and individual paid recognition for exam success.

She said Ms McHenry was a perfect example of how careers can flourish when the right environment is put in place.

Paul Stones, managing director, Pareto Financial Planning, said: “With more Pareto colleagues following you on our programme we are organically creating the future of Financial Planning.”

Lauren McHenry said: “What a journey so far. I’m now looking forward to less study and more client interaction.” 

Pareto Financial Planning has more than £1bn of assets under management and has 71 staff, including 23 advisers. It was founded by John Stevenson and George Chantry in 2008, both experienced Financial Planners.

Last year Pareto reported strong growth across the business with a 14% increase in turnover. The firm welcomed five new independent financial advisers in the 2023-24 year, expanding its team to meet rising client demand. 

Pareto’s employee-led initiatives have raised more than £1m for charity since the company was formed 16 years ago. Last year it supported charities including Centrepoint, The Christie Charitable Fund, Beechwood Cancer Care, Stockport County Community Trust, Manchester Central Foodbank, MedEquip4Kids and Cash for Kids.