Women In Wealth With India Lanyon
‘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, India Lanyon, Wealth Management Associate at Pantheon Wealth Partners shares her take.
What is your job title?
Wealth Management Associate at Pantheon Wealth Partners
How did you get into wealth management and what makes it the career of your choice?
I started my career in finance in Melbourne, working at an accountancy firm in their investments division. That’s where I gained a solid understanding of how markets move and how to build customised client portfolios. I then moved to London and began my career in Wealth Management.
Wealth Management was always a field that appealed to me because I’ve always enjoyed working with people and finding out what it is that makes them tick, and ultimately helping them achieve their goals.
More often than not, it doesn’t feel as though you are sitting with clients, as most of them eventually become friends. It is more than just sitting with clients and reviewing investment/risk performance, sometimes you are the first to know about key life events such as babies, divorce, house moves etc. all of which can affect somebody's financial position.
It feels good to be trusted by clients and it’s rewarding to sit down with someone, understand exactly what they want to achieve, and then work together to make it happen.
Are there any barriers you have faced as a woman working in the wealth management industry, and how have you overcome them?
Not as such, women are underrepresented in the field, but I see this more as an opportunity rather than a barrier.
As a woman, I believe we offer fresh perspectives, and bring a unique approach to decision-making. When it comes to behavioural investing, which explores how psychological biases affect investment choices, women’s empathy and holistic approach can be particularly valuable. Empathy allows women to connect with clients, understand their
Emotional triggers, and identify irrational behaviours. This emotional intelligence helps guide clients towards more rational, long-term investment strategies, offering a calming influence during market volatility and ensuring they stay focused on their financial goals.
What do you like the most about being a woman in wealth management?
What I love most about being a woman in Wealth Management, is the chance to make a real impact on people’s lives. I’m passionate about changing the misconception that financial advice is only for the ultra-wealthy, as that’s still a common belief.
In reality, financial planning is for anyone looking to improve their financial future, and that’s the majority of people! Our clients come from all walks of life, and it’s about helping them make smart choices with their money, whether it's budgeting, saving for big milestones, or planning for retirement. I find it incredibly rewarding to work with such a diverse range of clients and show them how proper financial planning can truly make a difference, regardless of their financial situation. It’s not just about growing wealth, but also giving people the tools and confidence to feel secure in their financial decisions.
I also love how diverse the industry is and how it offers the flexibility to shape your career path. There are so many niche areas to explore, such as trust and estate planning, or financial planning for older generations. It’s a career that provides endless opportunities for growth and specialisation.
What advice do you have for a woman wanting to get into wealth management and those wanting to advance?
If you’re a woman looking to get into wealth management or advance in the field, my advice would be to focus on building strong, trusting relationships.
This is an industry that thrives on connections, and that takes time, so be patient and stay committed. It’s not just about what you do at work, but also about putting in the effort outside of it, whether that’s networking, learning from others, or staying engaged in the industry.
The relationships you build early on will be key to your success down the road, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and make those connections!
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!
