A young financial adviser has been named as a finalist in the Rising Star category for the 2024 Financial Reporter Women’s Recognition Awards.
It is the latest accolade for Romany Youell who, in 2020 and aged just 18, earned her Diploma in Financial Advice from Quilter Adviser School, becoming the youngest person to be accepted into the school and the youngest financial adviser to qualify in the UK.
Romany, now 22, of Shelley-based mortgage, pensions and investments firm NeedingAdvice.co.uk, is one of five finalists in the Rising Star category. The winner will be announced at a ceremony in London on October 22.
Romany has worked for her family’s business NeedingAdvice.co.uk for six years and specialises in pensions, investments, financial planning and equity release.
Romany occasionally accompanied her dad Damian Youell on client visits from being 11 years old and formally entered the industry on achieving her mortgage exams aged 16.
In 2023 Romany was honoured to be chosen as the first Financial Adviser of the Month on the Unbiased Appreciation Scheme.
Romany’s journey has been an inspiration to many other young women and she has mentored and encouraged several of them into careers as financial advisers.
Romany said: “Addressing the gender imbalance in financial services is a cause close to my heart. I began my career without female role models and I continue to aim to inspire more women to join the industry.
“It might seem like an unusual career choice but I’m passionate about helping people achieve their financial goals.
“It’s an amazing honour to be shortlisted and I’m looking forward to going to London for the awards and after-party to celebrate either way.”
Company director and dad Damian said: “This is a huge achievement for Romany as a young woman making her way in the financial services industry which is still largely male dominated.
“We are so proud that all Romany’s hard work and dedication for her clients has been recognised. Just being one of the five finalists will be a major boost to Romany’s career and future aspirations.”
Rozi Jones, editor of Financial Reporter, said: “Once again, we received more nominations for our Women’s Recognition Awards than ever before and, as always, the true driver of the awards becomes clear when we read the entries submitted.
“However, with the FCA recently warning that the industry is in danger of ‘going backwards’ on gender equality, there is clearly still work to be done, and that work is evolving each year.
“Huge congratulations to all of our finalists and we can’t wait to reveal this year’s winners in October.”
