Two financial advisers, a mirrored journey, and double the value for our team: Meet Stef and Nicole

Nicole and Stef never expected to build identical careers at the same firm, but life has a way of ignoring careful plans. While studying accounting, they took an elective in financial planning that changed everything. Nicole remembers the moment clearly: “We looked at each other like, this is actually practical information that could help Mum and Dad.” That motivation to help their own family grew into a commitment to guide others through some of life’s most important financial decisions.

When it came time to apply for graduate roles, they agreed to target different companies to avoid competition and confusion, with one exception, First Financial’s predecessor. Stef applied for an accounting position, and Nicole applied for a wealth management role. As it turned out, the accounting positions were already filled, so Stef was redirected to the wealth interview, the same group session as her sister. Stef laughs, “We sat on opposite sides of the room thinking no one would realise we looked exactly the same, but it didn’t take long.”

They were both hired, and the rest is history. Twins on a shared vocational path. First, they gained experience through vacation and graduate programs before moving into the client service team. From there, each learned more about the profession while under the direct mentorship of a principal as an associate adviser. By 2018, they had earned their adviser titles and have been doing exceptional work ever since.

Stef and Nicole credit First Financial with creating an environment where advisers can build long careers without sacrificing their lives outside work. Over the years, they have been part of a group of colleagues who have experienced life and career growth together, from promotions to marriage, parenthood and beyond. This has created a workplace culture that celebrates shared milestones and fosters genuine understanding.

Nicole recalls returning from maternity leave with gratitude for her career and team. “They were so flexible. It was comforting knowing I could step back in smoothly,” she says. Being able to return part-time lifted a great deal of pressure during a demanding and vulnerable stage of life and reaffirmed her value as a professional and her ability to balance parenthood.

Stef had a similar experience. “Our leadership understands the juggle of young families. We have built systems so clients are supported even if we are part-time,” she explains. She says that kind of planning shows the business values both its people and the continuity of service that clients depend on.

Finance has traditionally been a male-dominated profession, but Stef and Nicole believe women can bring a unique perspective. “Being female often allows for more emotive conversations, which for me, helps understand clients on a deeper level,” says Nicole. She adds, “Discussing financial matters can be quite intimidating and make people feel vulnerable, so allowing for a safe space to open up allows for a more meaningful discussion.”

Together, their experiences show how different communication styles create a more rounded approach for clients. Having advisers with varied life experiences and perspectives means clients can connect in the way that feels most comfortable to them, while still receiving the same high standard of advice.

Working together, and at times stepping in for each other during maternity leave, has worked well for Nicole and Stef for more than a decade. “Following the same career path has provided us many unique opportunities which we don’t take for granted. We have been able to leverage off each other to learn and grow and build our individual client bases”.

What began as an elective choice has now unravelled into two highly successful careers at First Financial. Nicole and Stef see their future much like their past. Many days ahead that involve showing up for their clients, growing alongside them, and always finding meaning in the little moments that make this work worthwhile.

If you’d like clear, practical financial advice from advisers who listen and build guidance around your priorities, contact our team today.

And if building a career in financial advice alongside supportive colleagues appeals to you, visit our careers page to explore the opportunities at First Financial.

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