Here is the third instalment of our staff spotlight series, providing an insight into our wonderful team. This time, we spoke to Claire Jackman, IFA Administrator, who joined Ridgeways at the beginning of this year and brought a wealth of problem-solving and customer service experience with her.
Taking off…
Claire entered the financial services industry following a career break, having previously worked as a consultant to different sectors, running her own business.
Prior to establishing her business, Claire qualified as a trainer and coach and also worked as a Management Development Consultant. She specialised in leadership and management training, helping individuals and organisations develop their skills, confidence and performance. She also specialised in aviation security, delivering training and consultancy within a highly regulated and complex environment.
Although financial services is a completely different industry, Claire quickly developed an interest in it and has enjoyed building her knowledge and experience ever since.
Career highlights so far
Claire takes great pride in the fact that she successfully ran her own company for 14 years. During that time, she had the opportunity to work with clients across the UK and internationally, managing projects in Japan and Australia. She worked with a wide range of organisations, including government bodies and airports, combining specialist industry knowledge to deliver successful outcomes for a diverse client base.
One of the most memorable projects was working as a contractor for Heathrow Airport during the launch of Terminal 2. As part of the communications team, Claire was responsible for managing the production of a CGI flythrough that envisaged what the new terminal would look like once completed. Claire managed the project from concept through to delivery, working with multiple stakeholders to ensure it met the required standards and deadlines. The finished flythrough was used across online platforms, promotional materials and advertising campaigns to help communicate Heathrow’s vision for the new terminal.
She also organised and coordinated a series of promotional photoshoots to showcase the completed areas of the terminal. Using friends and family as models, she created images that brought the new terminal to life for future passengers and visitors.
When Terminal 2 officially opened, it was incredibly rewarding for Claire to see the photographs displayed throughout the terminal, especially a large photograph of her and her daughter. Knowing that she had played a small part in such a significant project and seeing the results on show in a major international airport, was a very proud moment.
The best parts of working at Ridgeways…
Claire cites her colleagues and the culture at Ridgeways. Having previously worked in larger, more corporate organisations, it is a refreshing change for her to be part of a smaller, friendly firm where everyone is approachable and supportive.
She appreciates the personal touch that Ridgeways offers too, “The team really takes the time to get to know clients as individuals and builds genuine, long-term relationships rather than transactional ones. This creates a positive experience for clients and contributes to a supportive working environment for the team as well.”
Any turbulence?
One of the most challenging aspects of the role has been adapting to an entirely new industry, with its own terminology, acronyms, and technical complexities. Claire had little familiarity with many of the concepts and practices used in financial services.
There is always something new to learn, however, Claire enjoys the challenge and is keen to study for professional exams in the future, to help build her onward development within the industry.
Key competencies for the job
Claire thinks attention to detail is one of the most important skills for anyone working in IFA administration, as accuracy is essential when dealing with client information and financial documentation. Strong organisational skills are also key, as there are often multiple tasks and deadlines to manage at the same time.
She also believes that being approachable and flexible is important. No two days are exactly the same, so being able to adapt and respond to changing priorities is a valuable skill.
Finally, a willingness to learn is essential, particularly in an industry that is constantly evolving. There is always something new to absorb and being open to learning on the job is key.
Interesting fact
Claire had an opportunity to spend more time focusing on her creative interests, particularly art. During that period, she organised and ran her own art exhibition – a fantastic experience as she used a completely different skillset, combining creativity with planning. Seeing her work displayed was both rewarding and memorable and remains one of her proudest personal achievements.
Chosen superpower?
Between work, family life, children and animals, there is always somewhere she needs to be or something that needs her attention. Being able to fly would give her a few extra hours in the day to balance everything a little more easily and spend more time doing the things she enjoys with the people who matter most.