Every month, we share some highlights of what’s been happening in and around KBA.
This month, find out why and how we celebrated our Southport office, learn the story behind why Ria Milford is going back to school, and some exciting news about the brilliant women on the KBA team.
First, a shout out to everyone who’s celebrated a work anniversary: Beccy Brooks has been with us for 17 years, James Nelson for 5 years, and Ria Milford, Mollie Scotson, Julie Leeson, Susan Bennett, and Lisa Roberts have all been with us for a whole year already.
We’ve grown a lot in the last 12 months’, and we’re thrilled with the brilliant work we all do together as one big KBA family.
It’s a year since we opened the KBA Southport office
We opened our Southport office on 16 May 2022, and what a crazy year it has been! Like any new venture, it hasn’t come without its challenges, but regardless, the team has shown their hard work and dedication to the role, day in and day out. We are so pleased to have them on board as well as our lovely Yorkshire Building Society (YBS) customers.
In the past year, we’ve experienced remarkable growth, built strong relationships, and accomplished milestones that we’re immensely proud of. The next year holds boundless potential, new opportunities, and even greater achievements. We are committed to continuing our mission of excellence, innovation, and making a difference to the lives of those we serve.
It has been a moment of reflection, gratitude, and excitement as we looked back on the incredible journey we’ve had. We couldn’t have achieved this without our dedicated team, loyal clients, and supportive community.
Thank you for being part of our incredible journey. Here’s to many more years of growth, success, and making a positive impact together!
Ria Milford received her acceptance to start at the Openwork Business School
KBA The Financial Planning Company is part of the Openwork Partnership network. The Openwork Business School allows people across the network to sign up to improve their skills and learn all aspects of financial planning.
We grabbed five minutes with Ria to find out more.
What was the entry process like?
The entry process wasn’t like anything I have participated in before. I had to put together a presentation and deliver it to a board of Openwork members. I was extremely nervous, but also incredibly excited and learnt a lot along the way.
What have you signed up to learn?
I am going to be on the Wealth Management course, which will begin my journey to becoming a qualified Financial Planner.
How long is the course you’ll be taking?
The course will take around 12 months to complete. It’s going to be really intense, but I am excited about what is ahead.
Do you know what is involved?
I have to sit a number of exams, so mainly a lot of studying paired with a lot of on-the-job training. It’s all going to be very new to me, but I enjoy new experiences, so am welcoming it with open arms.
How will it affect your working week?
My working week will remain relatively the same until I become qualified, but over the next 12 months it will consist of broadening my knowledge and hopefully getting more involved in the financial advising side of things, which will help with my studying.
Will you attend the school in-person or take online classes?
My learning will predominantly be online, and I will be allocating extra time for studying and learning.
Any apprehensions?
I am nervous, however more excited nerves! It is going to be a hard year of studying and working towards my goals, but I am confident I will receive all the support from KBA, my colleagues, and Openwork.
What are you looking forward to the most?
I am most looking forward to the experience and the journey. I really like learning new things and working towards my goals, and this is the first step to getting closer to my goals.
Have you used the opportunity to go stationery shopping?!
As everyone at KBA knows, I have a small obsession for going shopping, so when I was told the news you can imagine I was straight to buying colour coordinated stationary!
Join us in celebrating our fabulous KBA women
Last but by no means least, we’re thrilled to share some exciting news. Six of our incredible female team members have been nominated for multiple prestigious awards for the Women in Financial Advice Awards 2023!
Join us in celebrating their fantastic achievements…
🏆 Sarah Hogan has been nominated for:
- Financial Adviser of the Year – North West
- Role Model of the Year (Small/Medium Firms)
- Woman of the Year – Financial Coaching.
🏆 Beccy Brooks has been nominated for:
- Woman of the Year – Adviser Support Services
- Role Model of the Year (Small/Medium Firms).
🏆 Elysia Walsh has been nominated for Financial Adviser of the Year – North West.
🏆 Joanne Hobson has been nominated for Financial Adviser of the Year – North West.
🏆 Hannah Needham has been nominated for Rising Star – Advice.
🏆 Emma Bell has been nominated for Marketing Influencer of the Year.
Phew! It’s a long list and we’re thrilled that so many of our team have received nominations.
These outstanding women are an inspiration to us all. Their passion, leadership, and drive for excellence have not only made a difference to the lives of our clients but for us as a team.
We’re raising a glass of champagne to each and every one of you.
