Women Who Sell With Lauren Rashid

‘Women In Wealth’ is all about showcasing women in the wealth management industry who are thriving and challenging stereotypes. We feature real perspectives of what it’s like, the barriers and the breakthroughs.

Here, Lauren Rashid , Director and Paraplanner at Para-Pal shares her take.

What is your job title?

Director and Outsourced Paraplanner at Parapal Ltd.

How did you get into wealth management and what makes it the career of your choice?

I’ve always had a passion for financial planning, which led me to pursue a degree in the field. After graduating, I started as an administrator, building a solid foundation of knowledge and experience. From there, I moved into a trainee paraplanner role, where I honed my skills, before working as a paraplanner for various networks and directly authorised advisers.

Over time, I realised I wanted to take a fresh, friendly, and professional approach to paraplanning. That’s when I decided to start my own business as an outsourced paraplanner. It’s been an incredible journey—supporting advisers, improving processes, and staying ahead of industry trends. Building something that makes a real difference has been incredibly rewarding.

Are there any barriers you have faced as a woman working in the wealth management industry, and how have you overcome them?

Unfortunately, barriers have been part of my experience, often in ways that were subtle but significant. In one role, I was told I needed to be Chartered to progress to a financial adviser position—something that wasn’t required of my male counterparts. It was disheartening at the time but ultimately fuelled my determination to succeed on my own terms.

I’ve overcome these challenges by focusing on what I can control: consistently delivering quality work, building strong relationships, and staying committed to professional growth. Starting my own paraplanning business was also a game-changer. It allowed me to shape how I work and build a career that reflects my values of fairness, professionalism, and innovation.

What do you like the most about being a woman in wealth management?

What I enjoy most is the opportunity to make a meaningful impact—not just for advisers but for the clients they serve. I love taking complex financial issues and turning them into clear, actionable solutions that help people achieve their goals.

As a woman, I often bring a fresh perspective to the table, which I think is so important in an industry that’s rapidly evolving. It’s exciting to see more women thriving in wealth management and to be part of a movement that’s challenging outdated stereotypes.

What advice do you have for a woman wanting to get into wealth management and those wanting to advance?

Firstly, don’t let barriers discourage you—they’re often opportunities in disguise. Start wherever you can—whether that’s as an administrator, paraplanner or financial adviser —and focus on building your skills and confidence as you go.

For those looking to grow or advance, be proactive about seeking out opportunities and don’t hesitate to challenge the status quo. Find mentors who can guide and encourage you, invest in your professional development, and always be open to learning. And remember that everyone is born knowing nothing. Trust that it’s okay to ask questions, make mistakes, and learn as you go. Most importantly, stay true to your values and let your work speak for itself.

If you would like to get involved with the blog series and share your story as a woman in the wealth management industry, we’d love to hear from you. Follow us on LinkedIn for more!