Stephanie d’Ippolito, CFP®
Managing Director of Financial Planning
“The best way to encourage more women to join the industry is to continue making women visible in leadership positions within financial services, and to create strong internship and mentorship programs.”
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.
Stephanie d’Ippolito benefits from a diverse background within the financial services industry. She began her career in an advisor support capacity, which transitioned into Advisor Recruiting, then pivoted back towards more robust support and supervisory roles before ultimately landing in Wealth Advisory.
She now serves as Freestone’s Managing Director of Wealth Planning, supporting Client Advisors by providing comprehensive financial planning solutions for our clients. This includes drafting and updating written financial plans, analyzing unique situations such as estate distributions, insurance needs, and corporate benefits, and updating the Client Advisor team regarding changes in tax or estate law that may impact our clients. Stephanie enjoys working with clients to ensure they are on track to meet their financial and personal goals, and with the Client Advisors to implement the appropriate action steps.
In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge women face in the financial services industry? How have you personally overcome challenges in your career?
Women are still underrepresented in the financial services industry, particularly in leadership roles. It can be intimidating to be the only, or one of the only, women in the room, and stereotypes about women who are assertive and ambitious are still abundant. This can make it challenging for women to feel comfortable speaking up and sharing ideas, but it is crucial for women to continue to make their voices heard. I have had some negative experiences in my career but have managed to overcome those challenges through education to improve my technical knowledge, leaning into some of the more uncomfortable conversations and selecting a firm that sees the value in hiring and promoting women.
How can we encourage women to enter our industry?
Representation matters! The best way to encourage more women to join the industry is to continue making women visible in leadership positions within financial services, and to create strong internship and mentorship programs for women.
How can financial literacy empower women?
Women control more and more of the wealth in America and are more commonly becoming the primary breadwinners in their families. By improving financial literacy and starting that education young, women will be in better positions to maintain the wealth they accumulate and cultivate it for future generations. It is a way to generate more equity within our society.
What resources have helped you succeed in your career?
I have found great value in continuing my own education to help move my career forward over the years, along with participating in local and national professional associations. Broadening both knowledge and professional networks can be powerful tools for success. Professional networks especially can give women a forum to support each other, which is invaluable for the success of future generations in our industry.