We recently had the pleasure of catching up with OW Olivia Pounder, to discuss her journey onto becoming a Chartered Financial Planner. Since leaving Westholme, Olivia ventured into the world if international business and economics, beginning at the Alliance Manchester Business School. In less than 5 years, Olivia has crafted an incredible career for herself, with roles at Handelsbanken and Artorius, she has now taken a new role as Paraplanner at Rathbones, a leading UK Wealth management firm with over £100bn under management as of 2025.

What was your Westholme experience like? Did you get involved in any extracurriculars?

I hold fond memories of my time at Westholme. From my first day in the Year 7 bungalow to the GCSE’s of Year 11, I made the most of my time in such a special environment. I now live locally in the Ribble Valley and whenever I see one of the school coaches or that iconic purple uniform, I smile! 

I was quite the music block resident and spent many hours with Mr Millest, Mrs Lewis & other choir, orchestra and swing band goers, going on the choir tour every year; I particularly remember our trip to Salzburg for “The Sound of Music” and the beautiful Venice!

Most importantly, Westholme gave me the confidence which has undoubtedly helped me through my career so far.  

What inspired you to pursue a career in wealth management? 

After Westholme, I ventured to Clitheroe Royal Grammar Sixth Form for my A-Levels. Following this I had a year out in Industry, and then studied Bsc International Business, Finance and Economics at the University of Manchester.

I was approached to be a Graduate Trainee in a Wealth Management firm and have enjoyed every minute in the industry since! I love knowing what motivates clients and listening to their ‘why’. This makes our job much easier to help structure their finances, invest well and achieve their goals. 

What does your career progression look like since leaving Westholme? What are some particularly notable projects/moments from your career? What's next? 

Since graduating in 2022 it’s been a busy 3 years. I have completed my Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, and certificates in Discretionary Investment Management and Securities and Advice Dealing.

On the professional qualifications route, I am continuing study to become a Chartered Financial Planner, which means a few more exams and a lot of on-the-job learning! I have recently moved jobs and currently work as a Paraplanner for Rathbones Wealth Management in Leeds, hoping a technically focused role will help in the years to come when I aspire to be a client facing wealth manager or financial planner. 

What does a 'day-in-the-life' as a paraplanner look like?

As a Paraplanner, I work in a team which supports five Chartered Financial Planners. Together we work to manage all aspects of client work. There is no “typical day” within this role as all clients are different, meaning that their needs are unique!  What is guaranteed includes initial research, analysis and writing detailed financial reports. The role requires precision and understanding of financial planning, but also heavily relies on collaboration both internally and externally. Having moved to Rathbones relatively recently, I am really enjoying working in the professional but supportive environment. Every day brings something different, but the focus on doing what is best for the client through technical expertise and continuing development remains at the forefront of what we do. 

Finally, any advice for current students?

My advice to current students would be to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. Whether that be in your years at Westholme, making the most of the facilities and teaching you have access to, or in years post Westholme. It’s a competitive world out there and having extra-curricular activities (yes, the teachers are right!), work experience and other things to talk about is just as important as grades. 

Thank you to Olivia for catching up with us, and we wish her the very best of luck in her new role!