Women in Finance – series of blogs, episode 15

Maria Flynn, Client Experience Manager

We are pleased to present the fifteenth episode of our Women in Finance series, featuring Maria Flynn, a Client Experience Manager at Foster Denovo. In this episode, Maria reflects on her relocation from the US, experiences at Foster Denovo, and the progression she’s made within the company. She also shares valuable advice for those aspiring to build a career in the finance industry.

Maria opens up about how her career began unexpectedly and how it has progressed over the years.

“I wasn’t actually planning on entering the finance industry. It all started back when I was at University in Texas. During a job fair, I was having lunch with my friends in the cafeteria when someone from the event approached me. She asked if I was looking for a job. Although I wasn’t actively searching and was planning instead to head home for the summer, she mentioned an opportunity at GM Financial. They were opening a branch nearby and she encouraged me to stay for the summer to work there. That conversation sparked my interest in the finance industry. Ultimately, I decided to stay, took the job, and that marked the beginning of my career journey in the financial sector.

After starting her career in the US, Maria’s path led her to the UK.

“I moved to the UK in 2020 after I got engaged to my husband who lived here. It was a completely fresh start, and I wasn’t sure what to do next. I applied for many different jobs, and Foster Denovo was one of the ones I liked most. Thankfully I got the job, and I’m still here today.”

Since joining Foster Denovo, Maria’s career has flourished. She’s moved through various roles, starting as a Client Experience Administrator, where she learned the basics of the industry from scratch. Despite initially finding tasks like making calls to providers or emailing clients a little daunting, she quickly adapted and excelled. In under a year, she progressed to Client Experience Executive, then advanced into a Senior Client Experience role before moving into her current position as Client Relationship Manager.

“In my current role, I support two Advisers and help train and mentor a Client Experience Assistant (CEA). I guide her in supporting me and the Advisers, while also overseeing her development. Additionally, I help train new team members. My responsibilities blend client relationship management with training and development and client servicing. It’s incredibly rewarding and when I look back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come – from knowing little about this side of finance to now help manage a team. Of course, I couldn’t have done it without the guidance and support of my colleagues.”

Maria credits a lot of her growth to the nurturing environment at Foster Denovo.

“The support I’ve received has been amazing. My manager has provided me with the tools and knowledge I needed to succeed, and the Advisers I work with have been fantastic and they are always approachable and encouraging. Even beyond my immediate team, people across departments are so friendly and willing to help. I can ask questions without hesitation, which has made such a difference to my development.”

Reflecting on her role, Maria shared her passion for helping others succeed.

“What I love most is helping CEA’s grow in their roles. I want to be someone they can look up to, and ultimately, I want them to one day take on my role and progress.  It’s exciting to watch them learn, develop, and take their first steps in their careers. Many of them are fresh out of college or university, and I can see their potential, so being part of that journey is incredibly fulfilling.”

Funnily enough, I like numbers now, but I didn’t realise I did before! I love being able to support Advisers in achieving their goals and celebrating those successes together.”

Looking ahead, Maria has clear aspirations for her career.

“I recently became a Client Relationship Manager, so there’s still so much to learn, but I’m setting my sights on becoming a Team Leader and Practice Manager in the future. I’ve been a Team Leader before, back in the US, and I know how much I enjoy helping others grow and develop. That’s what drives me.”

Maria is also enthusiastic about the positive changes she’s observed for women in the finance industry.

“I’ve been fortunate not to encounter barriers in my career. I joined at a time when the industry was already evolving away from being stereotypically male-dominated, and it’s great to see. I’ve noticed though, that previous generations may still perceive finance differently, but today, I see a sector that is far more inclusive. I hope this progress continues, with even more women entering and thriving in finance.”

Maria’s advice for those considering a career in finance is empowering.

“Don’t be afraid to join the industry as it’s changing so much. The saying ‘the world’s your oyster’ is one I truly believe in, and even if it’s not what you initially imagined for yourself, be open to the opportunities that come your way. The industry is evolving, and you might just discover a career you love.”