60 Seconds with Debbie Connolly

Monday 14 October 2024

Tell us about your role and your organisation.

I manage the Northern Ireland office of AAB Wealth. I love working with my clients to really understand what really matters to them the most, both now and in the future. I want my clients to live their best life, with the money they have worked so hard to obtain.

I try to make the complicated advice areas as simple as possible so that my clients can focus on what really matters to them and their family.

Give us a brief overview of your career journey so far.

I started out as an administrator 18 years ago at a financial planning practice. Since then, I developed and progressed my career taking exams and learning along the way. I have now attained Fellowship of the Personal Finance Society, the most prestigious level of professional achievement in the profession. I am also chair of the Personal Finance Society in Northern Ireland, and most importantly, I am in a role that I love and have the ability to help people really live their best life.

Describe yourself in three words.

Caring, resilient, and determined.

What is one skill that helps you most in your role?

The ability to listen and understand what is important to my clients. What really drives them and what really matters to them is fundamental to my role.

What advice do you have for women in your sector?

You can do it. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

Who has been your biggest career inspiration and why?

My biggest career inspiration was my Mum and Dad. They worked tirelessly to make ends meet and had two jobs to help cover the bills. That work ethic has stuck with me throughout my career, and they always made sure that we had time as a family to enjoy our time together.

If you had to pick your soundtrack song to get you through the working day, what would it be?

"This is Me" - From The Greatest Showman.

What's your favorite break-time snack?

A slice of toast.

How can your fellow Women in Business members keep up to date with you and your organisation.

You can connect with Debbie on LinkedIn here.

Monday 14 October 2024