Jenny Doherty, CFP®
Director, Client Advisor
“Because there are not as many women in the financial services industry, there are fewer female mentors. It is so important for us to be there for each other as a support system.”
In honor of Women’s History Month, we’re showcasing some of the inspiring talent at Freestone. By highlighting the successes of powerful women and asking them to share their wisdom, we hope to empower women to not only enter the financial services industry, but to excel.
Jenny, a Client Advisor, appreciates every opportunity to get to know her clients.
She enjoys learning about their unique situations and helping them pursue their financial goals. Born and raised in Homer, Alaska, Jenny currently lives in Anchorage. She attended the University of Washington in Seattle before beginning her career at Coldstream Capital Management as a Private Client Service Associate supporting a relationship management team. She joined Freestone in 2015 as a Senior Associate prior to moving into a Client Advisory role.
Jenny is passionate about financial literacy and believes that far too many people have never received advice about basic financial principals that can be exceptionally impactful to their lives. She hopes to leverage her expertise to help close that gap, especially by educating women and younger generations on the importance of financial knowledge.
What advice would you give to other women trying to break into the field?
I recommend getting involved in local organizations, such as the Financial Planning Association (FPA), Young Professionals Group (YPG), and the Estate Planning Council (EPC). Being a part of these organizations has helped me be successful and form new connections with individuals who are also passionate about our industry. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and get out of your comfort zone, it is the best way to grow.
What is your overall view of the presence and status of women in the industry?
Although we still have headwinds, I think we have come a long way and have seen a lot of progress over the past 10 years I have been in the industry. I do think there continues to be pressure on women to be in support roles, whether that be a secretary, an assistant, or administrative support. Because there are not as many women in the industry, there are fewer female mentors. It is so important for us to be there for each other as a support system.
Who is a woman who most inspires you and why?
I am an avid backcountry skier, located in Alaska, so look up to professional skiers Tatum Monod and Michelle Parker. Like women in finance, they are women living in a man’s world and crushing it. They are inspiring other women and reminding them that we can do anything men can (and often better!).