Paraplanner

Job Title: Paraplanner

Location: Londonderry, Northern Ireland

About Benchmark

Benchmark is an award-winning firm offering innovative solutions in regulatory, platform, and investment services, designed to assist advisers at every stage of their journey— from launching and managing a financial advice business more effectively to accelerating growth and achieving its full value. We empower high-quality financial advisers with our top-tier technology and support services. Additionally, our own Financial Advice business aids families in finding solutions that address their needs and aspirations, providing peace of mind. We are committed to ensuring positive client outcomes, placing the client’s interests at the core of decision-making. Our Treating Customers Fairly principles are deeply ingrained in our culture, as we take our responsibility to care for all clients, including those who may be more vulnerable, seriously.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a Paraplanner to join our team on a full-time permanent basis. The Paraplanning function is technical and supports advisers in various financial areas, including pensions, tax, and investment management. While you will not provide financial advice directly, you will be responsible for producing letters, reports, and supporting documentation for consideration. This role involves undertaking technical analytical work, such as cash-flow forecasting and investment analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion the Treating Customers Fairly principles, and uphold your duty of care towards our clients.
• Prepare and maintain electronic client files for paraplanning.
• Discuss client objectives and work requirements with advisers.
• Conduct research, analysis, and data gathering, liaising with providers as needed for investments, pensions, and other products.
• Source quotes and associated client disclosure materials (Key Features Documents, etc.) for client files.
• Draft Suitability Reports using financial planning software tools, including Selectapension, Assureweb, and FE Analytics.
• Assist advisers and paraplanners with various ad hoc requirements, from non-advice reports to annual review reports.
• Effectively use in-house systems to track case progress, costs, and maintain an audit trail.
• Stay updated on industry changes, particularly regarding suitability report requirements, and maintain CPD and FCA knowledge in line with company and CII standards.

Essential Knowledge, Experience, and Qualifications

• Previous paraplanning experience is essential.
• Level 4 Diploma Qualified (CII) or nearing completion is required.
• Strong understanding of retail investment, savings, pension, and protection products.
• Excellent knowledge of suitability report content, format, and requirements.
• Significant experience in composing suitability letters.
• Ability to communicate confidently and remain adaptable.
• Highly developed analytical, observational, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Exceptional attention to detail and strong organisational skills.

Desirable Knowledge and Experience

• Familiarity with external software/tools, such as FE Analytics, Selectapension, Defaqto Engage, Assureweb, Cash Calc, or similar.
• Experience with defined benefit or safeguarded benefit pension reviews.

We Recognise Potential, Whoever You Are

At Benchmark, our purpose is to provide excellent outcomes and service for our clients. We believe that a diversity of thought, supported by an inclusive culture, enables better decision-making and helps us achieve our goals. Inclusion and diversity are strategic priorities for us, and we are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, disability, gender identity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, socio-economic background, or any other protected characteristics.