Executive Assistant Natalie Smith tells us more about herself:

Q: What has been the journey that led you to becoming Executive Assistant?

I joined Citywide Financial Partners at the end of 2017 following on from 3 years in the Hospitality Industry. I worked my way up from a Graduate Trainee to a Hotel Manager within that 3 year time span and then decided on a career change into the Financial Services Industry. I have previously held Executive Assistant roles outside of university term time in the PR Industry, so becoming an Executive Assistant at Citywide Financial Partners has enabled me to use skills I have already gained whilst learning and developing within the industry.

Q: What attracted you about working for Citywide?

As mentioned I was looking for a career change and wanted a company who put people and their values at the forefront of what they do. Citywide Financial Partners prides themselves on their holistic approach to financial planning but this also extends to how the business and team operate on a day to day basis.

Q: We know you are an Executive Assistant but what will that mean day to day? 

My day to day role is to support Clinton, the Director with managing our client relationships and to provide administrative support to Clinton and the team.

Q: What do you find interesting about the work that you do?

Each and every client are different and I find it really interesting understanding how we support them in their journeys through learning more about their lives and goals.

Q: What are you saving for?

My partner and I have recently bought a house so we are currently saving for an extension and renovation works which we plan to do this year.

Q: When you are not at Citywide, what keeps you busy?

I enjoy various sports including netball which I play weekly for a team in Epsom and I also regularly run in the local area with the picturesque Epsom Downs on my doorstep.

Q: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? 

I would say follow your heart and do not let barriers stop you from moving forward towards your goals.

Q: What is your proudest achievement in life so far? 

My proudest achievement so far has been my partner and I moving up the so called ‘property ladder’ now owning our second home. It was a fantastic experience buying, renovating and selling a house and now we are looking forward to getting started with the renovation on our current home.

Q: And what goals are you working towards now?

I am currently looking forward to learning more about the Financial Services Industry and embedding myself into the role.