Celebrating success: Francis Clark Financial Planning at the Women in Financial Advice Awards 2025

On 12 November 2025, the Professional Adviser Women in Financial Advice Awards brought together leading voices from across the UK financial sector to celebrate the achievements of women working within financial advice; a sector where women continue to be under-represented.

Held in London, the event was a fantastic opportunity to recognise the achievements of individuals and firms making a real difference.

We’re proud to share that Francis Clark Financial Planning was shortlisted for the Contribution to Gender Diversity – Advisory award. Senior Chartered financial planner, Michelle Willcock, was also awarded Highly Commended for Financial Adviser of the Year – South West. A testament to her dedication and impact.

Championing gender diversity

Our nomination for the Contribution to Gender Diversity – Advisory award reflects the work we have been doing to encourage the progression of women in financial advice. Some of those actions include:

• Publicly signing the Women in Finance Charter, setting and exceeding ambitious targets for female representation: 40% on our board and 33% among our financial planners. Well above the national average of just 17%.
• Refined flexible and hybrid working policies to support work-life integration, ensuring all employees can thrive.
• Michelle has mentored two trainee female financial planners, helping to shape the next generation.
• Showcased women’s voices in our business, with director and head of client experience, Charlotte Taylor-St Ruth, co-hosting investment updates and leading conversations on diversity and inclusion.

We measure our impact through board-level oversight, regular employee engagement surveys, and formal tracking of our commitments under the Women in Finance Charter. These efforts ensure we’re not just making promises but delivering real change.

Spotlight on Michelle Willcock

A highlight of the evening was seeing Michelle Willcock recognised as Highly Commended for Financial Adviser of the Year – South West. With 37 years in financial services, Michelle has been a trailblazer.

In the early years of her career, she was often the only woman in the room, but her strength of character and determination continued to break barriers and inspire others.

It’s great to see progress in the profession, but there’s still so much to do to encourage women to see financial planning as an exciting career opportunity.

Michelle’s leadership extends beyond technical expertise. She is a mentor, confidant, and role model, supporting colleagues through challenges and inspiring them to achieve their goals.

Looking ahead

Being recognised at the Women in Financial Advice Awards is both an honour and a call to action.

At Francis Clark Financial Planning, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can succeed.

We celebrate these achievements and look forward to continuing our work to advance gender diversity and empower the next generation of financial professionals.

Charlotte.Taylor-St Ruth

Head of Client Experience