Welcome back to Inside IFP, the series where I gather all the insider insights over a cuppa. This week, I grabbed a coffee with Caitlin, one of our Client Services Executives. I heard all about her journey into financial services, what life at IFP is really like, and why she thinks being “different” is a great thing to bring to the team.
First things first – tell us a little about yourself and your role at IFP.
I’m Caitlin, a Client Services Executive and I joined IFP in October 2024. On a daily basis, I mainly support Darren. This involves working through a task list; submitting withdrawals and top ups, and creating annual review packs for client meetings. I have a lot of interaction with our clients and help with different queries.
Your background is in hospitality; how did you end up in financial services?
I applied to work at IFP one day completely out of the blue and started as an apprentice. I was offered the position of Client Services Administrator roughly halfway through my course, and I went on to complete my apprenticeship with a distinction. Following this, I decided to study LP2 and get my certificate in financial services. I have since been promoted to Client Services Executive!
Congratulations! That’s a speedy career progression. What’s your favourite part of the job?
When a workflow or project that has been challenging or has taken a long time to complete gets done. It feels great to get issues resolved. It’s very satisfying when hard work pays off and you can contact the client with the good news. I love writing top up letters and creating gritty review packs where I really have to apply myself to get the correct information.
What do you find the most challenging about your role?
It can often be balancing what I need to do and how to prioritise. Sometimes it feels like a lot of pressure to get things completed in a timely manner; I am my own worst enemy here, as I am not a particularly patient person.
What did you expect when you first joined, and what is it actually like?
I had never worked in an office environment before, and I was really nervous about the cross over. I wasn’t sure if I would fit into a super strict corporate workplace, but that’s not IFP at all. Everyone is calm and friendly; there’s supportive management and regular check-ins with regards to work life balance. There’s a focus to get the work done, and done well, but it’s surrounded by support and kindness. I am a member of the wellbeing team so its really nice to be able to contribute to this working environment.
Did anything surprise you about working here?
All the perks! There’s company benefits such as pension, private medical insurance, birthdays off, etcetera. There’s also a focus on team building and there’s loads of fun activities planned throughout the year. I was prepared for a very rigid environment where all relationships were face level, but that is not true at all. I have made some real friends in my time here!
What’s been your most memorable moment at IFP so far?
The Business Beats Cancer event I got to attend. It was a lovely night, and I will remember the total fundraising amount of £32,000 forever. It’s nice to know I contributed in a small way to that special event.
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for a role at IFP?
The kind of people who thrive here are those who have a real drive to succeed, and who like to improve the lives of others. There are loads of different characters at IFP – it’s great to have a mix because it means the work we do has so many influences and is better because of it. Don’t be nervous to be different!
Thank you, Caitlin. You’ve given some great insights! But we can’t finish without my quick-fire round…
IFP in 3 words or less – Productive, social and committed.
Tea or coffee – Coffee – lots!!
Office or remote – Office.
Early start or late finish – Early start.
Smart or casual – More casual but I do love getting dressed up for the odd occassion!
Caitlin’s journey and career progression is a testament to what you can achieve with the right mindset, environment and support. I hope you enjoyed the read as much as I enjoyed the chat. See you in a couple of weeks with another brew!
If you’ve been tempted to join the team, head to our careers page to see our current vacancies.
