Our paraplanning team forms the backbone of the Corbel Partners network.
There are 25 paraplanners on our team, and more than a few have (bravely) volunteered to be introduced here. So, keep reading to meet some of our amazing paraplanning team.
Gemma Johnston – Head of Paraplanning
My history: I’ve been with the network since 2013 – it’s flown by! I have been in financial services since 2007 (not the best year to begin a career in this sector but I’m not easily put off!), working in compliance for five years before starting my paraplanning journey in 2012.
Best thing about my job: My favourite thing about my job is paperwork, believe it or not! If I can get my head stuck into writing a guidance document, working on calculation spreadsheets, or drafting bespoke reports, then I’m in paraplanning heaven. That, and looking after the team of course, they are awesome.
Outside work: I love music. I’m a percussionist in a community brass band and have played violin since I was young (I did a Music Tech with Management degree at university).
Clare Lehman – Paraplanner
My history: I have worked in financial services within different independent financial advice companies since 2007, first in admin, and then paraplanning. I joined Corbel Partners in September 2024.
Best thing about my job: I enjoy the analytical and problem-solving aspects, as well as seeing the positive end results clients gain from receiving great financial advice.
Outside work: I have two young daughters, so my spare time is spent with them and catching up with family. My hobbies include yoga, reading and watching the latest trending TV shows.
Chris Bloomfield – Paraplanner
My history: I’ve worked for independent advice firms since 2010, joining Corbel in 2022.
Best thing about my job: I love being part of a team with a huge wealth of experience coupled with their willingness to help one another with complex cases.
Outside work: I am a keen cyclist and a long-time (long-suffering) Newcastle United fan. I attend seven or eight home games every season!
Amy Bloomfield – Paraplanning Research Administrator
My history: I spent 15 years as a support worker for a local charity while bringing up our two children. In 2023, I took on an administrative role at a local solicitor firm, then in August 2024 I started at Corbel Partners.
Best thing about my job: I enjoy working for Corbel Partners as every day is different and, being a newcomer to the sector, my role allows me to learn about many different aspects of financial services.
Outside work: I’m a keen runner and an avid reader (but not at the same time!). I love spending time with my family and our energetic Spaniel, Eddie!
Lisa Duong – Paraplanner
My history: After university, I worked in retail then made the switch to finance, starting as a trainee paraplanner in September 2021.
Best thing about my job: I’m constantly learning!
Outside work: As I’m studying for my exams, my hobbies have taken a bit of a backseat. But when I do get spare time, I love tennis and swimming.
Lyndsay Gray – Paraplanner
My history: My previous experience dates back more than 20 years! My roles have included administration, mortgage and protection advice, and paraplanning. I’ve worked for both small and large firms within and separate from networks. I’m Diploma-qualified and have completed my Certificate in Paraplanning. I joined Corbel Partners in 2021.
Best thing about my job: No two days are the same!
Outside work: I am a mum with a 12-year-old daughter called Freya. I’m a big animal lover with three cats and a dog who all keep me busy! I go to the gym 3 – 4 times a week, enjoy walking (I climbed Snowdon last year with my little girl) and spending time with family, especially days out as members of Chester Zoo and The Ice Cream Farm in Cheshire.
Scott Beecroft – Paraplanner
My history: Prior to Corbel I have worked primarily at smaller IFAs where I have been able to gain exposure to a wide array of products and ways of working. I achieved the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning in 2023, and I am keen to get myself to the Advanced Diploma level in due course. I only joined Corbel in July 2025, so I’m very new here!
Best thing about my job: How friendly everyone is! I work remotely, which at a less organised and worse firm would be daunting, but Corbel have made is seamless with proper processes and pragmatic and fun colleagues.
Outside work: I like football, playing weekly five-a-side games, and F1. I like to read; I am working my way (slowly) through the Penguin Classics collection. And I love a good coffee, so regular trips to local independent cafes are a must for me.
Martin Rider – Senior Paraplanner
My history: I spent 18 years working at another firm, being the first paraplanner they hired! I originally gained a biology degree from the University of East Anglia, graduating in 2001. My dissertation was on penguins! I started at Corbel in January 2025.
Best thing about my job: My colleagues – they are welcoming, helpful and very knowledgeable. They like to have fun and are always making me laugh!
Outside work: I became a Christian at 25 and this has been my passion. I spent six months working in Zambia in 2011, helping to start a church in Lusaka (the capital city).
I love reading and writing. I have written two books (both at the “completed first draft” stage) – one is about my passion for Jesus and the other is a futuristic fantasy novel about a three-year-old boy going on adventures in a bookshop.
I also love going to watch Exeter City with my son, William, playing Cheese Escape on Roblox with my daughter, Bethany and going out for meals with my wife, Amanda. I like painting and drawing when I have time. I have a knack for painting animals in watercolour and drawing black and white portraits.
Kerry Price – Paraplanner
My history: I studied Accounting and Finance at Aberystwyth University and have worked as a paraplanner for 10 years, working for directly authorised firms and those that are part of a network. I started at Corbel in September 2024, so I’m coming up to my one-year anniversary.
Best thing about my job: The variety of cases that you get to work on, and the supportive team of fellow paraplanners.
Outside work: I live in the Welsh countryside; I enjoy hiking with my dog, gardening, and reading. I also like travelling and exploring new places. The most exciting thing I’ve done recently was skydiving in New Zealand!
Matt Smith – Paraplanner
My history: I joined Corbel two years ago. Prior to this, I had paraplanning roles at local firms for more than five years. I was also once a postman for a while after a very long stint at a large insurance company!
Best thing about my job: No two cases are really the same, so you do get variety which is always good. I also really enjoy autonomous working and the trust we receive from the leadership team to get on with the job in hand.
Outside work: I’m married to Annette and have a son, Ben who’s currently studying in Australia.
I’m a big Blackpool FC fan, even appearing as a regular on the Seasiders Podcast during the season (you can see it on YouTube if you really want!).
I’ve been to about 80 football league grounds now, having travelled around Europe watching England and attending various Bundesliga matches. I also enjoy watching cricket having previously played local club cricket for around 20 years. I enjoy going to the gym, family time, travel, and live theatre and gigs.
Get in touch to learn more about working with us
Do you want to join Corbel Partners as part of our support team, or are you an adviser searching for a new home for your business?
Email hello@corbelpartners.co.uk or call 01925 637891.