By Jennifer Senzick
Marketing Associate
[email protected]
We’re excited to introduce Sean Dougal, our Paraplanner, and take a moment to help you get to know him a little better. While Sean plays an important role here at Franklin Retirement, this is your chance to learn more about his background, his journey into the industry, and a few things he enjoys outside of the office.
What’s your role here, and what does a typical day look like for you?
My title is Paraplanner. One of the things I’ve always enjoyed about being in the banking and financial industry is that I’ve never had the same day twice. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to help our clients.
I typically start around 7:30 AM by checking emails and setting up my day. Throughout the day, I meet and check in with advisors regarding the clients I’m working on with them. I also follow up through emails or phone calls when needed, and may speak directly with clients—often helping them roll over funds from their existing companies to their accounts here at Franklin Retirement Solutions. I also sit in on client meetings to see how advisors use the research I’ve done and how they present it to clients. At the end of the day, I record market numbers and update the custom investment models we use here at Franklin Retirement Solutions onto a spreadsheet for the advisors to reference during their appointments.
How long have you been with the company, and what originally drew you here?
Although I’ve been in the financial industry for 20 years, I recently celebrated my one-year anniversary here at the end of March. I was originally drawn to the location—living less than 10 minutes from the office—but as I learned more about the role and responsibilities, it quickly became clear it was a great fit based on my skills and experience.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
Honestly, I enjoy everything about my job. I enjoy meeting and talking with clients, and I really enjoy working with my coworkers—the team here is amazing and feels like a family, where everyone is willing to help and support each other. I’ve always had a strong desire to help clients reach and exceed their financial goals, and this role allows me to fulfill that every day.
How does your role support our clients/team/company mission?
I like to think my research and findings help make the advisors’ jobs easier when they’re speaking with clients or prospective clients. I take pride in organizing and preparing information that allows advisors to clearly demonstrate why clients can trust us with their retirement planning and long-term goals.
What’s something your coworkers might be surprised to learn about you?
My first time on a plane was my honeymoon, the day before I turned 27.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I have 22-year-old twins that I enjoy spending time with whenever possible. I love golfing and bowling—I’m pretty good at one and not so good at the other (if you’ve seen the trophy above my desk, you might know which is which). I also enjoy poker games and participating in fantasy sports leagues whenever they’re in season (football, baseball, or golf).
Coffee, tea, or something else entirely?
I have an unhealthy addiction to Diet Coke.
What do you enjoy most about working with this team?
The feeling of belonging and family. From the moment I started, I felt welcomed and accepted into the office. We spend a lot of time together during the week, and everyone does what they need to do to help the clients, the company, and each other succeed.
How would you describe our company culture in three words?
Clients come first.
What advice would you give to a new employee just starting out?
Take notes, ask questions, and listen. There is a lot of experience, knowledge, and wisdom around the office—take advantage of it to learn and grow in this industry.
If you could instantly master one skill, what would it be?
Play piano. I’ve always been jealous of those who can sit down and play everything from classical pieces to current hits.
If your workday had a theme song, what would it be?
Working for the Weekend – Loverboy