The global work of Australian financial planning pioneer Gwen Fletcher in spreading the message on the need for qualified planners has been recognised by the US Financial Planning Association (FPA).

The 28,000-member association will grant Ms Fletcher a “distinguished service award” – the first for a foreigner – in Seattle next month.

She was nominated by US FPA board member Tom L Potts.

Ms Fletcher – who is a life member of the Australian FPA and a foundation member of the National Insurance Brokers Association’s Life Brokers Committee – was awarded an Order of Australia for service to the development of the Australian financial planning industry through education and training initiatives and the mentoring of women.