Lisa Henderson

Name: Lisa Henderson

Current role: Investment manager

Department: Investment Management

University: University College London

Degree: Geography

Joined: 2002

Having graduated from UCL in July and completing a work placement the previous summer, I decided to apply for a graduate trainee position as I enjoyed my time so much. As a graduate trainee I started in Settlement Operations, then worked in the Unit Trust and Investment departments. For two years I was an assistant manager and assisted a director. Afterwards, I became a manager and much more independent, with responsibility and involvement in making key decisions.

I’ve now reached the position of investment manager, assisting a director with managing our clients’ day-to-day affairs and making investment decisions to suit their needs. I’m continually improving my knowledge of the investment industry, building relationships with our clients and gaining valuable skills from working with more experienced colleagues. It’s been a great time for my development and I already feel like a more-rounded investment manager.

There are always going to be times when you feel challenged at Smith & Williamson, because we work on some really big projects. For me, I found pitching for new client accounts quite tough. There’s always support when you need it, though, and we all work as part of a team. It’s this atmosphere that’s one of the highlights for me. There are plenty of approachable colleagues who are willing to offer their advice and expertise, and we have a great, close-knit team whose members compliment each other. The fact that we’re a relatively small firm means I know all of the members of the department, and they know me!