Matthew Smith joined Matrix Capital Limited, near Bridgnorth, just four months ago, as a paraplanner. His role includes providing technical support, analysis and research facilities to the team of chartered financial planners.

And after studying alongside his day-job, he has now completed his Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, awarded by the Personal Finance Society.
Robin Melley, who runs the company with his business partner Gary Matthews, said: “Matthew has made excellent progress since joining us earlier this year, and we’re all extremely proud of his success.

“His diploma is a level four qualification, which is the equivalent to year one of a BSc or BA university degree. Matthew now has his sights firmly set on becoming a chartered financial planner, which is a level six qualification and the equivalent of a full university degree.”

Matthew has previously worked as a pensions administrator specialising in self-invested personal pensions (SIPPs), and has now already started studying for his advanced diploma.

“When he completes the advanced qualification, he will be classified as chartered, which is the gold standard in financial planning and there are currently only 3500 chartered planners in the world,” said Robin.

“At Matrix Capital, we are one of only 500 firms of chartered financial planners in the UK, and one of only four in Shropshire. We are committed to delivering the highest standard of customer service and to helping our staff develop their skills. Now that we have a top qualified paraplanner in our team, we can offer even greater support to our clients and added value to the services we provide.”

Matthew said: “I’m extremely grateful to everyone at Matrix Capital for all their support during the time I have been studying alongside my day-to-day work as it’s been extremely challenging.

“But to have now completed my diploma, I’m relishing the chance to take my training on to the next level and to study even harder for the next qualification.”