'There's no point trying to fit in the men's club': Aspiring adviser's message to young women

‘Old boy’s club’

clock • 2 min read

Sarah Johnson does not listen to those who tell her she is not cut out for financial advice, and recently enrolled on Quilter's virtual work experience program, where she was one of 210 aspiring financial advisers.

The 21-year-old Cheshire native (pictured) grew up seeing the profession dominated by middle-aged men, but is set on changing that. "My aspiration is for it not to be such an old men's club - for women not to be facing so many challenges. It is definitely getting better, but there is still that stigma around women and young women and I want to help change that by going into the industry and hopefully helping others do the same," she said. Johnson took part in Quilter Financial Planning's recent virtual work experience program, which involved 210 people aged 17 to 22, almost two-thirds...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

Friday Night Takeaway: It's the return of the banks

Friday Night Takeaway: It's the return of the banks

The news editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 10 July

Isabel Baxter
clock 10 July 2026 • 3 min read
Carla Brown on PFS/CII relationship reset and how chartered status is 'essential'

Carla Brown on PFS/CII relationship reset and how chartered status is 'essential'

PFS president and chair joins Professional Adviser in the studio

Professional Adviser
clock 10 July 2026 • 1 min read
FCA spotlights vulnerability in latest Consumer Duty review

FCA spotlights vulnerability in latest Consumer Duty review

Treatment of vulnerable clients still an area of improvement for firms

Sophia Panayi
clock 10 July 2026 • 2 min read