We are pleased to share the first instalment of our staff spotlight series, offering you the chance to get to know our wonderful team. To kick us off, we interviewed Kirsty McKenzie – Financial Planner. Read on to learn about Kirsty’s career path

How it all started

Kirsty started her career in financial services after leaving school. Initially she worked at HSBC in Aylesbury, before moving to a small IFA firm when she was 18. Here we are now nearly 20 years later.

The most enjoyable part of the role is..

Helping clients gain clarity around their investment and pension planning and being able to help them plan for a retirement they can enjoy.

Proudest career achievement so far

Kirsty says, “studying and sitting my final exam which gave me my Level 4 Diploma in just 3.5 weeks. I have never found studying for exams ‘easy’ as the huge textbooks are very hard to ‘digest’ but with a bit of determination and perseverance it’s paid off.”

How would you describe Ridgeways to a potential client?

Kirsty highlights that as a small, independent chartered advice firm they can offer a very personalised service. The advisors are friendly and approachable and are always available to speak to clients. They can offer a dedicated support team that they will get to know and recognise.

Key skills for an advisor

Be personable, good at listening, and reassuring. Have the ability to create clear plans for clients with an objective eye so that they can be adapted as and when required.

When she is not working….

Kirsty is a metalhead who loves nothing better than going to gigs! She continues the adrenaline rush by also snowboarding and attending the gym regularly.

Her chosen superpower would be

Teleportation – so she could avoid the time spent travelling to places and therefore get to visit more of the world.