A professional financial advisor, who can offer expert advice on suitable mortgages, loans, investments, insurance, tax and private pensions, provides a valuable service to clients and companies in the UK.
The principal functions of a financial advisor are to provide customers with accurate information and bespoke deals that will enable them to make an educated choice that suits their specific requirements. Job incumbents need to maintain transparent financial and contract details and liaise with service providers.
A background in the trade or a related industry as well as FSA certification in financial planning are mandatory for candidates. Job holders need to be self-motivated and numeric, and have good communication and organisational skills. Familiarity with data input and Microsoft packages is preferred.
Cities such as Bristol, Manchester and London are the best place to look for such a position, but there are vacancies in most regions of the UK for capable individuals. Salaries for IFAs and those with wide experience are between £30,000 and £70,000 per year.

• Understanding complex information
• Analysing financial data
• Team building
• Collaboration
• Consistency
• Proficiency
• Professionalism
• Adaptability
• Research and analysis
• Client confidentiality
• Listening and communication
• Record keeping
• Using electronic and technological equipment and applications
• Being trustworthy

A Financial Advisor should have no less than a Bachelor's Degree in Finance. Degrees in Economics, Statistics, Accounting or Mathematics are also acceptable. Other certifications that may be relevant to this position include:
•    FPC 1, 2 and 3
•    CAS
•    QCA Level 4
•    CII Diploma in Financial Planning
•    Advanced Diploma or Associate's Degree
•    ACA/ ACCA
•    MBA
•    Post-graduate Degrees