HA&W are pleased to introduce the newest member of our team, Chartered Financial Planner, Laura Ripley. Read about Laura’s life at home and work, and find out why she chose a move to HA&W.

Building a career in financial services

During a 14-year career in financial services, Laura has worked her way from junior paraplanner to Chartered Financial Planner.

A former board member, and part of the Investment Committee at Michael Ambrose, Laura will be bringing expertise and an IMC qualification to her new role at HA&W, supporting Jim on the investment side of the business.

Laura has been advising her own clients since 2017.

“After working in an investment focussed role for many years, I am looking forward to the move into a more holistic approach to financial planning,” she says.

Laura at home

With a two-year-old son to look after and entertain, Laura has little free time at the moment. When she does find time for herself, she likes to keep fit, cycling, running, and getting competitive on the fitness app, Strava.

Laura says her other passion is “Food, food, food. Hence all that exercise!”

Whether researching new recipes or trying out new restaurants (it hasn’t been the best year for this!) she likes to indulge her passion for food whenever she can.

She also enjoys spending time outdoors at Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood.

Prior to the arrival of their son, Laura and her husband tried to get away to Devon and Cornwall at least three times a year. They still make annual visits to the south coast but keeping a two-year-old entertained within the confines of a camper proved tricky. “Campervan holidays are out for the time being.”

Their last visit was to the Jurassic coast around Lulworth Cove. With plenty still to explore, their next visit might be there too!

Another favourite destination is the village of Treen in Cornwall, between Penzance and Land’s End. It has secluded, hard-to-reach coves that are well worth the effort. “They take a bit of rock climbing to get to, but once you’re there, it’s stunning. Like something from the Leonardi DiCaprio film, The Beach.”

A great atmosphere and pride in being part of the team: Why I chose HA&W

“I love the culture at HA&W. It’s an incredibly positive work environment and everyone is proud to be involved and to be a part of the team. It’s refreshing, and that atmosphere feeds back to clients too.

“Whilst I understand the importance of unlocking the right investment solutions – and am passionate about getting this right for clients – it is only a small part of the puzzle.

“As a financial planning company, Handford, Aitkenhead & Walker have client relationships as their starting point. Getting to understand a client’s goals and building a financial plan to make those goals achievable. This holistic approach is something I’m really looking forward to.”

“When I first met Alasdair and the team it was clear that they genuinely care about their clients and helping them to achieve their goals. There’s such attention to detail, and an awareness of the need for small personal touches and going the extra mile.

“There is a feeling of pride within the team, too. The company values aren’t hanging on a wall somewhere. They don’t need to be. They are genuine and an integral part of daily company life.

“I have been made to feel so welcome in the short time I’ve been here, and I am really looking forward to helping the business continue its success.”

Quickfire questions:

What does your ideal weekend look like?

“In the daytime – with wellies on exploring the outdoors with my little one. In the evening, with good food, wine, and friends.

When the dessert menu arrives, what are you looking for?

“My spoon! To eat whatever my husband ordered.”

What is your favourite part of the day?

“Snack time.”

In the film adaptation of your life, who would play you?

“Emma Watson ideally, although she’s far too young!”

What has been your proudest moment?

“Successfully growing a little human and bringing him into the world.”

What three words would your colleagues use to describe you?

Efficient, approachable, picky.

And a word from HA&W

Alasdair has this to say about Laura’s appointment: “Laura brings a wealth of experience and expert knowledge to her new role at HA&W. As we continue to strengthen the team we grow as a business and can improve the service we offer to our clients.

“Jim, Rob, and I are all pleased to welcome Laura to the team and really looking forward to working with her.”