Laura DeVoy, a Director in Goodbody Wealth Management, reflects on her passion for education, a love of music and fitness training, and explains why women have the natural skills the financial services industry demands …
The Investment Club was created in 2021 and our Goodbody experts have been with us every step of the way, providing practical tips on investing, and insights on pensions and inheritance tax, among other key topics. From tracing their career paths and how to attract more women to the financial services industry to their sage advice and hobbies, we invite you to explore our Women in Wealth series.
My journey to a career in financial services: I’ve always had a passion for education which was driven by my dad, who I lost when I was a young teenager. Not having this opportunity himself, he had the wisdom to instil in me the confidence and opportunities this wonderful gift brings. I joined Goodbody when I was in my twenties – and as an employer, Goodbody developed and encouraged me and saw my potential as a Wealth Manager and in many ways made the decision for me “to switch jobs within the job” – something I was doubting I could do (a real female!).
So, the first leg of the relay was in analysis working with Goodbody’s Chief Investment Officer and the baton change brought me to Wealth Management, using my foundation in markets to help clients. I could not have successfully done one without the other. I’m now a Director in Goodbody Wealth Management.
What females bring to the industry: Trustworthiness, emotional intelligence, empathy, multi-tasking, seeing projects through to completion. The list goes on …
There are a few standout moments in my career: I raised over €200,000 for An Cosán, an organisation that empowers women through education; I led the first DCU Access programme partnership with Goodbody; and I was awarded Women in Finance Wealth Manager of the Year 2019.
Three investing tips for beginners:
1. Only invest what you can afford to lose.
2. Trust your own judgement.
3. Invest in companies that you understand and that make products you use. If you like them, chances are others do too.
On my reading list: Shadow State by Luke Harding, The Witness by Nicola Talent and Vogue magazine – I love fashion and more importantly colour, the brighter and bolder the better.
Podcasts or music: I don’t listen to podcasts. I have two gears – overdrive and horizontal. So much of managing clients puts you in the first that during the latter I listen to dance music whilst working out, two old obsessions that have stayed with me and keep me sane!
On attracting women to the financial services industry: Women like to be very prepared, and our industry presents a lot of unknowns and things we cannot control. However, our logical reasoning and how we are innately designed to look after others means that we have the natural skills this industry demands. The best tip I have heard was from Dame Helena Morrissey: “leap before you look”. I have learnt this the hard way; we are our own biggest critics.
Advice for Investment Club members: Don’t listen to other people, they only tell you about the wins. Remember, your view is as valid as any professional. Conduct your own due diligence and trust yourself.