Danielle Spierenburg of Richardson GMP is part of the Wealth Professional Canada Young Guns 2018
Associate investment advisor
RICHARDSON GMP
Age: 31
Years as a financial advisor: 1
Certifications: CSC, CPH
Danielle Spierenburg believes there are both positives and negatives to starting a career as a financial advisor today. “The shift in demographics alone requires us to compete with the future – robo-advisory and online discount brokerages – while simultaneously servicing the needs of a past generation of aging baby boomers," she says.
It’s a challenge for sure, but one that can be met by collaboration between advisors of all ages. Spierenburg’s own experience at Richardson GMP provides an example of how this can be achieved.
“We can foster organic growth by establishing mentorship programs, hosting networking events with business schools, and defining career paths of students and young employees who are already engaged and driven to succeed,” she says.
A newcomer to the advisory space, Spierenburg’s opinion of what makes a successful financial advisor has evolved since she became one herself.
“We have open dialogue about everything from career aspirations, marriage and children to more difficult topics like wills, estates, critical illness and the potential for job loss,” she says. “An effective advisor considers how to improve a client’s life, not just increase their net worth.”
In terms of demographics, the lack of young advisors isn’t the only concern in wealth management. The male dominance in the profession is perhaps even more glaring. Progress is being made, albeit slowly, and Spierenburg believes the next generation can have an impact in this area.
“Being a young woman in a male-dominated industry presents unique challenges,” she says. “As I advance in my career, I will continue to be an advocate for gender equality in finance. I believe in championing initiatives for change, and I will support and encourage women to be future investment advisors, portfolio managers and board members.”
