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Female Finance: International Women’s Day

“I wish more women would become financial advisers; it’s an excellent career but it’s not an easy life. The profession is dominated by men, but I urge women who begin a career in finance not to emulate the way men work. Women tend to have a unique skill set that is ideally suited to this role, and the ability to really listen and understand a client’s needs. To make life easier I would find a mentor: a woman, if you can.”

Christina Brady – Associate Director

I’m proud to be a woman in finance. For almost 20 years now, I’ve been offering my support and advice to a wide range of clients, most notably expats living in Spain.

My advice to women starting in the financial services is: know your worth. Don’t try and conform to how others do things – be the best version of yourself and play to your strengths. Now more than ever you’re going to be dealing with female clients and you will be able to use your innate empathy to build a relationship of trust.

Also, be resilient. You may spend a lot of time answering questions on subjects outside of your area of expertise. It can be a hectic job with long hours so don’t forget to make time for yourself, whether that’s doing yoga, reading or enjoying a nice big glass of Rioja!

Lucia Melgarejo – International Financial Adviser

Women need to support women. Share knowledge, share experiences and share insights – it’s this foundation that yields the most success, the best reputations and the highest levels of integrity.

I would sum up my approach to a career in finance as follows:

  1. Never sell yourself short
  2. Step up and take responsibility
  3. Know your objectives
  4. Pick a female mentor
  5. Run your own race

Working in financial services can present endless opportunities for those who cultivate positive, enduring relationships, always keep learning and put their clients at the heart of every effort.”

Manuela Robinson – Joint Country Manager

“Always be yourself, because that’s your biggest strength. Don’t think of yourself as a woman in a man’s world because you’re not – you’re an equally qualified individual and never forget it. Sometimes a woman is at an advantage in that we have a different set of skills, whether you’re a partner, mother, family organizer, party planner, listener or a friend!”

Rosemary Sheppard – International Financial Adviser

This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.

Other News

Financial changes in France for 2018

French flag against a blue skyJanuary 2018 will see the French government introduce several legislative, tax and other financial changes, some of which will be of interest to British expats living in France.

First and foremost is the change to the wealth tax – also known as the Impôt de Solidarité sur la Fortune (ISF – or the “solidarity tax on wealth”). We touched on the topic last year when discussing the number of French job opportunities rapidly increasing.

The country’s president, Emmanuel Macron, who was elected in May 2017, has introduced the change as part of a push to attract more wealthy investors to France. The change is just one of many in what he called a “profound transformation of France” in his new year’s address.

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Finding quality healthcare as an expat

Doctor's white coatIt’s currently winter, which means it’s also cold and flu season. Sometimes, despite trying to avoid the germs as best you can, you just can’t help falling ill. And when that happens, you realise the value of quality healthcare.

For expats who have moved overseas, but can’t yet speak the language of their host country, finding a doctor can be difficult and may be something that requires assistance.

At Blacktower we would always suggest that finding a suitable doctor is a priority and should be high on your list of priorities when working out your expat retirement planning.

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