We spoke to MPA’s Admin Assistant Michelle Price about why communication skills are crucial to the job, the friendliness of the firm and the importance of keeping everything ship shape.
How did you get into Financial Services?
“Like many people, it was a happy accident! I was working for a national veterinary and referral centre in HR and doing PA work. There was a gap to fill in Credit Control, so I joined that team.
“A while later, a role came up as PA to an IFA, which looked interesting, especially as I was keen to move away from Credit Control and understand other areas of financial services.
“I thoroughly enjoyed the seven years working there, and when my boss retired, fortunately, the MPA position came along and I joined in 2022 as an Administrator.”
What is your area of expertise?
“Strong communication is essential in my role, and I have good communication skills with colleagues, IFAs and clients. My secretarial background means that I am great at proofreading and attention to detail, and my secretarial training means that I like things to be done well.
“I enjoy supporting colleagues and hope that I show empathy when they need a bit of extra help or things need doing. It’s a useful skill as work is always busy; there never seems to be any seasonal peaks and troughs, but that’s OK as I enjoy being kept busy.”
What do you enjoy about working at MPA?
“I love how welcoming the company is to new starters. Everyone is friendly, and there’s always help when it’s needed – there’s no need to worry about approaching people.
“I also like that no two days are the same, and there is plenty of support from line managers. Training is available on tap, and I’m looking forward to doing some pension training in the future.”
How do you support IFAs and Paraplanners?
“I work for MPA Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs) Jenny Hall and Ross Bennett, supporting them with various duties. These in include new business applications, withdrawals and fund switches, issuing letters of authority and chasing policy information.
“As well as answering the phone and lightening Jenny and Ross’ workload, I manage various documentation processes and procedures, ensuring everything is in order and ship shape. I also ensure client notes on our internal system are up to date, to help colleagues.”
What tips would you give to clients for making administration of their financial affairs easier to manage?
“Make sure you keep all your documents in one place so they’re easy to access. Label all your files clearly and correctly and know where everything is.”
What do you enjoy doing when you are not at work?
“I enjoy socialising with friends and family; theatre trips are a particular favourite – anything from musicals to plays. I loved Mamma Mia! and Back to the Future, I’m hoping it’ll come to the Hippodrome.
“I also enjoy day trips and holidays and reading.”
For more information about MPA’s range of financial advice services, visit www.mpafm.co.uk/services.
