Meet The Clarion Family

Meet Anna McKenzie

What is your role at Clarion?

I am a Trainee Paraplanner

How did you take your first steps in to financial planning?

After working in the mortgage industry for 10 years and then doing a law degree as a mature student, I found that I was very interested in property, tax and trusts.

I took a five-year career break to look after my children until they reached primary school age. During this time, I worked for myself as a Will Writer. Once my children started school, it gave me the opportunity to go back to work full time and financial planning seemed the natural progression given my previous finance and Will Writing background.

What do you think Clarion offers its clients that makes us unique?

Clarion offers its clients a high level of service where the client feels important, valued and listened to. I think Clarion wants its clients to feel comfortable and creates a home from home environment.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt in your role?

Everybody who works at Clarion has a wealth of knowledge. I feel that I learn so much from being in this environment and being trained by people who have worked hard for their qualifications and are constantly striving to learn more and grow professionally.

When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I was very sporty when I was younger and I wanted to be a P.E. teacher. However, I was diagnosed with sarcoidosis when I was 20 and my specialist warned me that I was likely to be in a wheelchair by the time I was 22 (luckily I’m not) so I could no longer participate in any kind of sport.

Who has inspired you in your life and why?

My mum and dad have inspired me in my life. They have always worked hard and looked after our family. They are have taught me to be honest, respect myself and respect other people. I find my husband to be a similar inspiration as he displays the same level of ethics and morals as my parents and always puts other people first.

What keeps you awake at night?

My children, Alex and Holly

Describe your perfect weekend

A weekend away, preferably somewhere warm, to spend quality time with my husband John, Alex and Holly.

Spring, summer, autumn or winter?

Summer