Hoxton Life Ep16 Jessica Rooney

A New Chapter in Dubai

Jess moved to Dubai in 2015 to work with Emirates, embracing the city’s vibrant culture and opportunities. Working as a cabin crew member, she developed strong interpersonal skills that would later become invaluable in her financial planning profession.

While she enjoyed the role, Jess wanted more long-term career growth and decided to pivot into financial services. This marked the beginning of a challenging but rewarding journey into financial planning.

The Power of Qualifications

Jess is a strong advocate for continuous learning and professional development. She pursued the rigorous Level 4 diploma through CISI and achieved the prestigious Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.

Her commitment to self-improvement has been instrumental in her transition from paraplanning to client-facing advisory roles, where she combines technical expertise with a passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals.

What It’s Really Like for Women in Dubai

Dubai often attracts mixed perceptions about its cultural norms, particularly for women. Jess shared her experiences of living and working in the city, dispelling common misconceptions and highlighting the empowering reality she has encountered.

She explained that, contrary to popular belief, women in Dubai are afforded significant opportunities to thrive, both personally and professionally.

She highlighted a key advantage: the respect for women in the workplace. “Women are celebrated here for their contributions, and organisations like Hoxton actively encourage female representation in leadership and advisory roles,” Jess noted.

Jess also pointed out Dubai’s vibrant expatriate community, where women from around the world come together to create a strong support network. “You meet so many ambitious, driven women here who are making incredible strides in their careers,” she said.

In terms of safety, Jess emphasised that Dubai offers a level of security that is hard to match. “I’ve never felt unsafe here, whether it’s walking home late at night or travelling alone. That peace of mind is invaluable,” she shared.

She acknowledged that some cultural adjustments were necessary but found the city’s balance of modernity and tradition refreshing. “Dubai is a place where different cultures coexist, and that’s something I deeply appreciate,” Jess said.

From Paraplanner to Financial Adviser

Jess began her financial planning journey as a paraplanner, learning the technical side of the profession. This role provided a strong foundation, equipping her with the knowledge and skills to succeed as a financial adviser.

The transition wasn’t without its challenges, but Jess embraced the steep learning curve and used it as an opportunity to grow professionally.

Life and Work in Dubai

Living in Dubai has been a transformative experience for Jess. The city’s sunny climate, active lifestyle, and global financial hub status have created opportunities she couldn’t have found elsewhere.

At Hoxton Wealth, Jess has found a workplace culture that aligns with her values. The company’s “give and receive” ethos rewards hard work and initiative, providing a supportive ecosystem for financial planners to build successful careers.

Empowering Women in Financial Planning

As a woman in a male-dominated profession, Jess acknowledges the challenges she has faced but also sees the potential for change. She emphasises the importance of increasing female representation in financial planning, noting that many female clients feel more comfortable working with female advisers.

Looking Ahead

Jess is optimistic about the future of financial planning, particularly in international markets like Dubai. With Hoxton Wealth’s structured career pathways and global opportunities, she sees immense potential for growth in the profession.

She also believes in the importance of attracting new talent, especially younger individuals who may not yet see financial planning as a viable career option. “Education is key,” Jess said, advocating for introducing financial literacy and career pathways in schools.

Final Thoughts

The Hoxton Life podcast with Jess Rooney showcases the incredible potential of hard work, resilience, and a commitment to personal growth. From her early days as a cabin crew member in Dubai to her thriving career as a financial planner at Hoxton Wealth, Jess’s journey is a shining example of what’s possible when ambition meets opportunity.

Jess’s story highlights the transformative power of setting goals, staying focused, and continuously learning. Her dedication to achieving the CFP designation and building a career in a dynamic, male-dominated profession is a testament to what can be achieved with the right mindset and support.

For anyone considering a career in financial planning, especially on an international stage, Jess’s story is both inspiring and practical. She reminds us that success isn’t just about qualifications—it’s about building meaningful relationships, proving your value, and embracing every challenge as an opportunity to grow.

Tune into this episode of Hoxton Life to hear more about Jess’s remarkable journey, her insights on life and work in Dubai, and how she’s helping shape the future of the financial planning profession.