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Home & Sponsors
Categories & Shortlists
Methodology & Judges
winners
Categories
& Shortlists
The shortlists in full across the adviser and provider categories. Good luck to all shortlisted firms!
Adviser
Adviser Categories
Click on the categories to learn more
Advice Firm
of the Year
Best ESG
Adviser
Best Financial Education Initiative
Best Investment Adviser
Best Mortgage Adviser
Best Network/ Support Service
Best
Paraplanner
Best Protection Adviser
Best Retirement Adviser
Diversity Champion of the Year
Next Generation Advice Firm
of the Year
Rising Adviser Star of the Year
Provider Categories
Click on the categories to learn more
Best Active Manager
Best Financial Education Initiative
Best Passive Manager
Best
Platform
Best Protection Provider
Best Retirement Provider
Best SIPP
Provider
Company
of the Year
Best Discretionary Fund Manager
individual performance category
This category rewards an individual who has gone above and beyond in their contribution to the profession.
The winner of this category will be announced during the Awards broadcast
methodology & judges
methodology & judges
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months, must be an IFA or other professional adviser
and be able to demonstrate a good track record as a business and providing advice to clients.
Advice Firm of the Year
About
Carrington is a boutique Wealth Management firm, committed to delivering unbiased and professional financial planning advice, to our like-minded clients. We love people. Our focus is on putting our clients firmly at the centre of our business, building long-term, collaborative relationships. Working together, we help them plan for their future. We encourage blue-sky thinking, supporting clients in realising their dreams and aspirations. We want to hear their stories; and to give them the confidence and clarity to make the decisions that are right for them and their families.
Ken Davy
Chairman
-
The SimplyBiz Group
Adviser
Provider
Provider
Individual
Individual
About
Continuum is a fresh and modern financial advisory business that continuously strives to be one of the leaders in our sector and to be viewed by clients, advisers, our people, our strategic partners and the regulator as the quality benchmark others should aspire to achieve. We believe in building a business that is big enough to make a difference yet small enough to care. One that focusses on our Advisers, our clients and our staff by developing a true Partnership centric model and embracing modern technologies we are able to deliver an outstanding client and stakeholder experience at all times.
Location
Head Office – Plymouth
Adviser Offices – Nationwide
Number of advisers
50
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£959m (as at 1st May 2020)
Number of clients
10,950 (as at 1st May 2020)
About
Finura is a multi-disciplinary, chartered, award-winning financial planning practice for private Clients, families, business owners and trustees. We were founded in 2014 with our vision and mission centred on delivering an exceptional service and making a meaningful improvement to the lives of our Clients. We believe a modern advice practice must prove their value add beyond investment management and demonstrate expertise and a personal touch unavailable with the scope of online advice. We offer whole of market advice across retirement planning, insurance and protection, investment planning and inheritance tax planning solutions.
About
Holden & Partners are a chartered, independent financial planning and investment firm based in London.
Our in-house investment team has an established reputation for their ethical, sustainable and thematic approach to investing. We have pioneered this gentle path ever since our inception in 2003. We focus on long-term, collaborative client relationships and deliver solutions to complex planning in simple terms. We aim to use technology to appeal to all generations, with excellence in both client service & satisfaction at the heart of what we do.
About
Established in 2007, we achieved Chartered status in 2009. We are proud that the majority of new clients come from recommendations from others who’ve had a positive experience with us. We don’t believe in a one size fits all approach and focus on providing excellent customer service. Our highly qualified advisers work with an expert support team to deliver a high standard of service efficiently, openly and transparently. We approach clients’ financial plans from many angles, including estate planning, cash-flow planning and advice on good financial housekeeping. We look at their personal & financial aims and create a realistic plan and structure their finances accordingly.
Location
London
Number of advisers
4 active advisers, 7 DipPFS qualified
team members in total.
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£200m AUM
Number of clients
283 clients
Location
Wilmslow, Cheshire and additional office in Chester used for client meetings
Number of advisers
9
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
over £900m
Number of clients
over 1,200
About
At Equilibrium, we specialise in financial planning, tax mitigation and investment management – but so do plenty of other firms. So, what makes us different? Making wealthy people wealthier is part of what we do, but it’s not our purpose. Our purpose is to make our clients’ lives better by giving them the confidence to make better financial decisions and ultimately lead better lives.
Location
London
Number of advisers
12
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative of Evolution Wealth Network
Assets under advice
>£400,000,000
Number of clients
>915
Location
London
Number of advisers
9
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
c. £500m
Number of clients
900
Location
Altrincham, Edinburgh, London
Number of advisers
13
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
AUM is £967,535,902
Number of clients
1,457 family groups
About
Beacon Wealth Management Ltd are a Chartered Independent Financial Planning practice, with its own internal investment team offering a full discretionary service. Providing city level advice out of the city, every client is treated as an individual, they get to know our team personally and drinks are made, just as they like them, ready for their arrival. With a focus on always striving to be, and provide, the best for our team and clients, we are proud of our achievements and ability of adapting to enhance services others haven’t thought of, as well as our strong community connection.
Location
Kimbolton, Cambridgeshire
Number of advisers
4 (2 Chartered Financial planners, 1 trainee adviser
with Diploma and 1 mortgage adviser)
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£160 million
Number of clients
1,500
About
Carrington is a boutique Wealth Management firm, committed to delivering unbiased and professional financial planning advice, to our like-minded clients. We love people. Our focus is on putting our clients firmly at the centre of our business, building long-term, collaborative relationships. Working together, we help them plan for their future. We encourage blue-sky thinking, supporting clients in realising their dreams and aspirations. We want to hear their stories; and to give them the confidence and clarity to make the decisions that are right for them and their families.
About
EQ Investors (EQ) is an award-winning, boutique wealth manager providing financial advice and investment management services to individuals, small businesses and charitable endowments. We are a Certified B Corporation, the international standard for companies who believe in business as a force for good. Making a positive contribution to the wider community is a core part of our business philosophy. EQ operates a matched giving programme to help its clients and staff raise extra funds for their favourite causes and has set up the EQ Foundation as a registered charity. The EQ Positive Impact Portfolios are a unique proposition for investors who care about how and where their money is invested.
Location
London
Number of advisers
16
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£1 billion
Number of clients
2,500
About
Holden & Partners are a chartered, independent financial planning and investment firm based in London.
Our in-house investment team has an established reputation for their ethical, sustainable and thematic approach to investing. We have pioneered this gentle path ever since our inception in 2003. We focus on long-term, collaborative client relationships and deliver solutions to complex planning in simple terms. We aim to use technology to appeal to all generations, with excellence in both client service & satisfaction at the heart of what we do.
About
HSBC UK is the UK ring-fenced bank of HSBC Group, headquartered in Birmingham, and through Midland Bank we have conducted business in the UK since 1836. HSBC UK offers a complete range of retail banking and wealth management to personal and private banking customers, as well as commercial banking for small to medium businesses and large corporates.
Location
In the UK we support customers through a network
of 621 branches and offices.
Number of advisers
507 advisers across the UK – many advisers cover
more than one branch and includes supervisors.
Number of clients
40 million across the world. 8 million in the UK.
About
Sanlam are a financial company dedicated to helping people and companies create, grow and protect their wealth. Through a combination of innovative and market leading products and solutions, the provision of high quality Wealth Planning advice and a desire to deliver a client experience like no other, we aim to redefine how client wealth is invested and managed and how financial advice is given and received in the UK.
Best ESG Adviser
This award recognises a financial advice firm that has gone above and beyond in its efforts to meet its clients’ ethical, social and governance investment needs. The firm should show a true understanding of the ESG landscape, as well as how their advice in the area reflects their clients’ individual goals and motivations, from gathering the right information at fact find stage and manager due diligence, to portfolio construction, reporting and ongoing review.
Location
London,
Number of advisers
4 active advisers, 7 DipPFS qualified
team members in total.
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£200m AUM
Number of clients
283 clients
Location
London
Number of advisers
9
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
c. £500m
Number of clients
900
Location
Monument, Fareham, Guildford,
Bristol, Preston, St Asaph, Newcastle
and Edinburgh
Number of advisers
We have 65 financial planners and 3 desk
based advisers
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
The planners advise upon £1.15bn that is
in Sanlam solutions.
Number of clients
7,171 excluding transactional clients
About
Carrington is a boutique Wealth Management firm, committed to delivering unbiased and professional financial planning advice, to our like-minded clients. We love people. Our focus is on putting our clients firmly at the centre of our business, building long-term, collaborative relationships. Working together, we help them plan for their future. We encourage blue-sky thinking, supporting clients in realising their dreams and aspirations. We want to hear their stories; and to give them the confidence and clarity to make the decisions that are right for them and their families.
Location
One Chapel Place, London, W1G 0BG
Number of advisers
4 active advisers, 7 DipPFS qualified
team members in total.
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£200m AUM
Number of clients
283 clients
About
Chadwicks are a forward looking advisory practice committed to realising the potential of our colleagues, our clients and our wider community. We are a learning organisation; discovery sits at the heart of our business and we give people time to follow their curiosity, wherever it may take them. We nurture agile and inquisitive minds to better help our clients navigate a rapid changing world.
Location
Norwich
Number of advisers
4 plus two trainees
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
c.£100m
Number of clients
150 wealth management;
c.5000 group pension scheme members
About
At Equilibrium, we specialise in financial planning, tax mitigation and investment management – but so do plenty
of other firms. So, what makes us different? Making wealthy people wealthier is part of what we do, but it’s not
our purpose. Our purpose is to make our clients’ lives better by giving them the confidence to make better financial decisions and ultimately lead better lives.
Location
HQ in Wilmslow, Cheshire and additional
office in Chester used for client meetings
Number of advisers
9
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
over £900m
Number of clients
over 1,200
About
Launched in the summer of 2018, Longhurst is an award-winning lifestyle financial planning practice based next door to the Silverstone F1 race circuit. Due to our location, we have a natural (but not exclusive) niche advising those in the motorsport, engineering, and technology spaces. This is in part supported by our regional business podcast, 'Inside Silverstone'. Our focus is to collaborate with our clients on a deeply personal narrative that excites and inspires them; to install and build financial confidence; and to empower them to live life to its fullest – a life lived without regret.
Location
Silverstone, Northamptonshire
Number of advisers
1 regulated adviser
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative
Assets under advice
£25m
Number of clients
35
About
As innovators and nurturers of the next generation, Murphy Wealth is known for its ambitious flare and award-winning financial planning team based in Scotland. As a proud family business with more than 43 years of history, Murphy Wealth now boasts a team of next generation planners from its investment in educational partnerships and professional development. CEO Adrian Murphy was awarded Financial Adviser of the Year in the 2019 Growth Investor Awards and has been increasingly acknowledged for his bold futuristic vision, making an impact in both the industry and the wider community. Murphy Wealth has taken Life Planning and Behavioural Insights onboard to develop a unique proposition with the client truly at its heart.
Location
Glasgow, Scotland
Number of advisers
4
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£120m
Number of clients
280
About
Progeny is a professional advisory firm providing integrated financial and legal services for private clients, businesses, family offices and charities. Progeny is a connected model, bringing together financial planning,
asset management, tax, HR and private and corporate legal services into one independent business with
the vision to be the most trusted advice firm in the UK.
Location
London, Leeds, Edinburgh, Buckinghamshire, West Sussex, Salisbury and Lancashire
Number of advisers
50
Assets under advice
AUM 2BN
Number of clients
3,500
Next Generation Advice
Firm of the Year
There is no size restriction on this category, which aims to reward advice firms demonstrating a genuinely innovative approach to financial planning, as well as staff development, training, and commitment to professionalism and improving the wider advice profession. Firms should demonstrate how they have successfully incorporated technology to improve the quality of advice they give and to increase business efficiency. This award is open both to face-to-face advice firms incorporating technology, but also full digital or 'robo-advice' solutions - though they must provide fully regulated financial advice as part of the business.
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About
Ascot Wealth Management offers holistic financial planning to people at any stage in their financial journey.
One of our key missions is to further educate both our clients, and the public, on financial matters from as simple
as education on bank accounts and interest rates to more complex pension matters, for example.
Location
Sunningdale, Berkshire
Number of advisers
4
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
Approximately £150m
Number of clients
700 clients
About
At Equilibrium, we specialise in financial planning, tax mitigation and investment management – but so do plenty of other firms. So, what makes us different? Making wealthy people wealthier is part of what we do, but it’s not our purpose. Our purpose is to make our clients’ lives better by giving them the confidence to make better financial decisions and ultimately lead better lives.
Location
HQ in Wilmslow, Cheshire and additional
office in Chester used for client meetings
Number of advisers
9
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
over £900m
Number of clients
over 1,200
About
HSBC UK is the UK ring-fenced bank of HSBC Group, headquartered in Birmingham, and through Midland Bank
we have conducted business in the UK since 1836. HSBC UK offers a complete range of retail banking and wealth management to personal and private banking customers, as well as commercial banking for small to medium businesses and large corporates.
Location
In the UK we support customers through a network
of 621 branches and offices.
Number of advisers
507 advisers across the UK – many advisers cover
more than one branch and includes supervisors.
Number of clients
40 million across the world. 8 million in the UK
About
Simpson Wood Financial Services was started in 2003 to service the clients of our sister company Simpson Wood Chartered Accountants. Since 2015 we have developed into a wealth management practice of 12, servicing £230m of assets and accumulating £20m+ of new assets per annum. The USP of Simpson Wood is we believe in over-achieving whilst retaining our management fees at 0.5%. We do this by using an external analyst team to consult to our investment committee each quarter, and assist with our pro-active management approach. In order to be pro-active all clients receive quarterly or 6 monthly reviews, with a clear objective being to out-perform the IMA benchmark net of fees. We insist on keeping our fees at 0.5%, not passing on the cost of the analysts and also avoiding the use of DFM’s in order to keep portfolio TER’s less than 1.5% per annum (usually at least 75% of portfolios are active funds, and no more than 25% passive). The relative performance of our portfolios, but more so, the importance of this over-performance has directly led to the significant increase in assets and conversely head count.
Location
Huddersfield
Advisers
5
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£230m pre Covid downturn in March
Number of clients
700 active households
About
Holden & Partners are a chartered, independent financial planning and investment firm based in London.
Our in-house investment team has an established reputation for their ethical, sustainable and thematic approach to investing. We have pioneered this gentle path ever since our inception in 2003. We focus on long-term, collaborative client relationships and deliver solutions to complex planning in simple terms. We aim to use technology to appeal to all generations, with excellence in both client service & satisfaction at the heart of what we do.
Location
The Piano Works, 117 Farringdon Road,
London EC1R 3BX
Advisers
9
DA or AR status
DA
Assets under advice
c. £500m
Number of clients
900
About
Established in 2007, we achieved Chartered status in 2009. We are proud that the majority of new clients come from recommendations from others who’ve had a positive experience with us. We don’t believe in a one size fits all approach and focus on providing excellent customer service. Our highly qualified advisers work with an expert support team to deliver a high standard of service efficiently, openly and transparently. We approach clients’ financial plans from many angles, including estate planning, cash-flow planning and advice on good financial housekeeping. We look at their personal & financial aims and create a realistic plan and structure their finances accordingly.
Location
Altrincham, Edinburgh, London
Advisers
13
DA or AR status
DA
Assets under advice
AUM is £967,535,902
Number of clients
1,457 family groups
Best Financial Education Initiative (Advice Firm)
This category seeks to reward an adviser that has gone above and beyond in their efforts to educate and inform members of the public about the importance of financial planning and managing their money. The entry should refer to a specific initiative that that either started or continued running in the past 12 months, but does not necessarily have to have begun in 2019.
About
Aspect8 is a multi-award-winning Chartered financial planning firm, the gold standard in financial advice. We’ve been helping our clients make the most of their money since 1993, offering impartial wealth management services to help them on their journey to long-term financial security. There is more to wealth management than investing in stocks or property. We take a holistic approach, prioritising an in-depth understanding of each client’s unique circumstances and goals, as well as considering the eight crucial aspects of financial success that gave our company its name.
With five offices and 65 advisers, we offer a personal service tailored to the needs of individuals, families and business owners across the UK.
Location
Horsham, Brighton, Maidstone, Winchester, Chester
Number of advisers
65
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative
Assets under advice
£1.5 Billion
Number of clients
6.5k
About
Brewin Dolphin is a UK FTSE 250 provider of discretionary wealth management. With £41.4* billion in total funds, it offers award-winning personalised wealth management services that meet the varied needs of our clients including individuals, charities and corporates. We give clients security and wellbeing by helping them to protect and grow their wealth, in order to enrich their lives by achieving their goals and aspirations. Our services range from bespoke, discretionary investment management to retirement planning and tax-efficient investing. Our focus on discretionary investment management has led to significant growth in client funds and we now manage £35.7* billion on a discretionary basis. Our intermediary business manages £12.5* billion of assets for over 1,700 advice firms either on a discretionary basis or via our Managed Portfolio Service. In line with the premium we place on personal relationships, we’ve built a network of 33 offices across the UK, Jersey and Dublin, staffed by qualified investment managers and financial planners. We are committed to the most exacting standards of client service, with long-term thinking and absolute focus on our clients' needs at the core. *as at 31st March 2020
Location
Brewin Dolphin has a network of 33
offices across the UK, Jersey and Dublin
Number of advisers
460 (as at full year to 30th September 2019)
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
Total funds of: £41.4bn (as at H1 31st March 2020)
About
Longbon & Company is a privately-owned and independent financial services company, advising and managing in excess of £60 million of private client investments. We provide unfettered, unbiased and independent advice to individuals, families and companies. Andrew Longbon established Longbon & Company in 2009 following a 25 year career in the City of London advising and managing client wealth. Longbon & Company seeks to steer its clients safely through financial minefields by providing clear, concise and reliable advice and execution. We strive to meet the objectives of our clients by judicious management of their assets and with continual appraisal of their circumstances.y
Location
Woodbridge, Suffolk.
Number of advisers
1
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£62.000.000
Number of clients
68
About
Saunderson House is a leading wealth management firm, based in the City of London, providing award-winning financial planning and investment services to busy professionals and other high net worth individuals. We currently advise over 2,400 clients, with c£5bn of assets under advice. All of our expertise is in-house and we have no funds of our own to sell. This means we are truly independent, we are not biased towards any specific investment means and the advice we deliver to clients is formulated purely with their interests at heart. Our wealth management offering is flexible. Clients can choose either an advisory or discretionary management service, depending on what best suits their circumstances. We ensure that our investment performance is third party verified, through our associate membership of Asset Risk Consultants’ (ARC) Private Client Indices (PCI).
Location
City of London
Number of advisers
52
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
c£5.2bn
Number of clients
c2400
About
True Potential is an innovative wealth management firm that specialises in expert financial advice and industry-leading technology to help our clients do money with their money.
Location
Newcastle, London and Belfast
Number of advisers
TPWM – 583
TP - 4,346
DA or AR status
TPWM – all 583 are AR
TP – 583 AR and the remainder are DA
Assets under advice
TPWM £6.2 billion
TP £10.3 billion
Number of clients
TPWM 56,000
TP – 1 million
Best Investment Adviser
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate a good track record as a business and in advising clients on their investment needs. This could be, for example - but does not necessarily have to include - the use of discretionary mandates, model portfolios or centralised investment propositions by the advice firm.
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Best Active Manager
This award seeks to recognise an outstanding active manager over the past year. The shortlist will be created from a proprietary analysis of performance after all costs by Albemarle Street Partners.
However, this award will also seek to recognise elements such as adviser service, style conviction, transparency, research quality, commitment to value, a progressive firm culture and a strong long-term track record, so the top performers across each sector were invited to make a further application to be reviewed by our independent judging panel.
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About
Lowes has been providing independent financial advice to people from all walks of life and across the UK for almost 50 years. The company focus has always been one of personal service, putting the client first and striving to achieve high levels of client satisfaction, verified through biennial client satisfaction surveys, the most recent of which had 94% of clients rate Lowes investment advice and client service as 'Good' or 'Very Good'.
Location
Newcastle upon Tyne & Hitchin, Hertfordshire
Number of advisers
18
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£950m
Number of clients
6018
About
Alexander is a Senior Paraplanner with Succession Wealth, having worked within the financial services industry since 2004. He is a career paraplanner, who is passionate about the role they can play alongisde the finacnial planner in the advice process. His qualifications include the Diploma in Financial Planning and alinged with his willingness to learn, is currently studying to achieve Chartered Financial Planner status.
Alexander lives in Salisbury with his wife and their young daughter, who is already showing more poise on a longboard and skill with a racket than her dad ever has.
Location
Weston-super-Mare
Advisers
33
DA or AR status
DA
Assets under advice
Mortgages, protection, GI
Number of clients
10,000+
About
Following A-Levels George commenced working as an Accountant, completing the AAT qualification before moving into Financial Services. George is Diploma qualified and now one exam away from completing his advanced studies. For the last 5 years he has been heavily involved in the day to day operations of the firm as it continues to expand. His involvement varies from helping to train new members of the administration team, to preparing reports and reviews for the advisers at the firm. He does stress it is a team effort and would like to thank them for the nomination for the award.
About
Kerry has been working in the financial services industry since 2003, starting at a large estate agent followed by an insurance company, and has been paraplanning since 2010. She currently works as the Technical Manager for Seabrook Clark, an award-winning chartered IFA and discretionary fund manager in Exeter. Kerry is FCA authorised, Diploma qualified and is working towards Level 6. Kerry enjoys the varied nature of the role and the new challenges it regularly brings, and is keen to keep promoting paraplanning as a career in its own right, especially to people outside the industry.
About
Lindsay joined EQ’s Technical Consultants team in January 2015, having worked in financial services since 2007, and is a Chartered Financial Planner and Fellow of the Personal Finance Society. She has a particular interest in trust and estate planning, and continues to develop a proficiency in this area. With a background in languages, Lindsay is a polyglot and enjoys improving her language skills. She is also a PADI qualified Scuba Diver, with numerous dives made worldwide, from the warmer climes of the Caribbean to Icelandic fissures. She especially enjoys wreck dives and is hoping to complete the specialist Wreck Diver course soon.
About
Sam joined the industry in 2005 as a general office administrator for a small IFA in Warwickshire. Over the following ten years she gained Chartered status with the CII and an additional Trusts & Estates qualification with STEP. Sam aims to gain her Fellowship by 2021. Over the last 15 years she has been employed as both an in-house and outsourced paraplanner. She is now a Senior Paraplanner for Succession Wealth at their head office in Birmingham, working with several wealth planners and helping to train and support their graduate planners and paraplanners.
Best Paraplanner
This category aims to reward excellence in the field of paraplanning. Paraplanners should have been performing the role for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate the technical and research skills needed to deliver a top-quality service to the client.
Sponsored by
Alexander Ottowell
Succession Wealth
George Smith
Simpson Wood Financial Services
Kerry Roffey
Seabrook Clark
Lindsay John
EQ Investors
Sam Tonks
Succession Wealth
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Best Financial Education Initiative (Provider)
This category seeks to reward a provider that has gone above and beyond in their efforts to educate
and inform members of the public about the importance of financial planning and managing their money.
The entry should refer to a specific initiative that that either started or continued running in the past
12 months, but does not necessarily have to have begun in 2019.
Sponsored by
Best Discretionary
Fund Manager
This category aims to reward excellence as a discretionary fund manager. There is no size requirement, though firms should have been running funds on a discretionary basis for at least 12 months.
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About
At Key Solutions our culture is our most precious asset and at our very core is our ethos: “we are here to make life easier and better for everyone”.
Location
Weston-super-Mare
Number of advisers
33
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
Mortgages, protection, GI
Number of clients
10,000+
About
Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) is the UK’s most recognised mortgage broker, winning over 150 national awards for the quality of its advice and service. It has over 1,400 advisers offering expert mortgage and protection advice on a local, regional and national level to consumers, both face to face and over the phone. MAB was the first – and is currently the only – mortgage intermediary to have floated on the London Stock Exchange, having joined the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) in November 2014.
Location
National but head office is in Derby
Advisers
1400
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
In 2019, we handled over £16bn of Lending
About
Fee Free, whole of market mortgage and insurance broker with a tech focus in order to optimise efficiencies
for our clients and our staff.
Location
Chippenham, Wiltshire
Number of advisers
28
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Number of clients
25,000 plus
About
Located in the heart of Borehamwood, The Orchard Practice has been helping both the local and wider North London community with all matters financial since 1997. Primarily a long-standing mortgage and protection broker with a wealth arm, in 2011 the firm began redeveloping its pensions and investments proposition to meet increasing demand from both existing clients and new enquiries. Eight years later, while the mortgage and protection business is still running strong, The Orchard Practice is now proud to offer a holistic financial advice service providing everything wealth-wise from pensions and investments to business property relief and family tax planning.
Location
Borehamwood, Hertfordshire
Number of advisers
2
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative of Openwork
Assets under advice
approx. £25million
Number of clients
approx. 500
Best Mortgage Adviser
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate a good track record as a business and in advising clients on their mortgage needs either as a mortgage specialist or IFA.
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About
Bankhall is a leading supplier of support services to more than 800 directly regulated financial services firms. From pensions and investments to mortgages and protection, Bankhall has been operating for over 25 years, supporting thousands of advisers to embrace regulatory change and reach their full potential. Our progressive and practical approach enables firms across the spectrum of financial advice to focus on strategic future-proofing and profitability, while also providing the best possible service and outcomes for their customers. And, because we’re part of Sesame Bankhall Group, our clients benefit from access to expertise across the world of financial services.
Location
Sale, Manchester (head office)
Huddersfield
New Delhi, India
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Number of clients
Over 800 client firms
About
Our reputation, built over almost 20 years, is for quality over quantity. We build personal relationships with the financial planners and wealth managers we work with, so their priorities become ours. We offer comprehensive, integrated solutions encompassing compliance, regulatory support and training, as well as access to our unique, proprietary technology. Our tightly integrated software suite drives efficiency and automation, and because we put our clients first, they help direct our innovation. We draw on years of industry experience and the considerable expertise of our team to deliver high-quality solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern financial planning firms across the UK.
Location
Horsham
Number of advisers
262
DA or AR status
Our network is comprised of Appointed Representatives
About
NextGen Planners is a community of over 300 financial planners who are actively promoting best practice and who are committed to shaping the profession of the future. The Training Contract ® is an independent, virtual, training programme, designed by planners for planners. This aims to help attract fresh blood to our profession, whilst also levelling up those who are in the profession already. In April 2020, we released our fully virtual Future Leaders Programme, recognised by the Chartered Management Institute, to help budding financial planners become leaders and the future faces of financial planning.
About
The Openwork Group is one of the largest and longest-established financial advice networks in the UK. It started operating as Openwork in 2005 but has been active in the financial advice market for over 45 years. Over 3,700 financial advisers and 500 staff are at the heart of the business offering a range of support to financial advice firms, financial advisers and customers. Backed by a strong shareholder base and a rich history, Openwork has developed the knowledge and experience to deliver a top-quality home for customer-focused advisers and financial professionals.
Location
London, Swindon & Brighton
Advisers
3,744 as at the end of April
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative status applies
to all Openwork Limited and Owl advisers.
Assets under advice
£11.7bn
Number of clients
753.000
About
Tenet Group is one of the largest and longest established adviser support groups in the UK, supporting hundreds of advisers across four key support propositions for mortgage and investment advisers, both as appointed representatives and directly authorised clients. It has a strong balance sheet and no external debt.
Location
Leeds, Preston, Forth and Cardiff
Advisers
1,387 - this is RI numbers only
and does not include DA clients
DA or AR status
Both
About
The SimplyBiz Group provides essential support services, software and data that enable professional financial advisers, financial intermediaries and product providers to deliver better outcomes for their customers. The Group was formed in 2002 and, through organic growth and acquisition, rapidly grew to become the UK's largest provider of outsourced regulatory and business support to financial advisers; a position we still hold today. During that time, we created and launched innovative solutions for the lending and credit markets, launched our own asset management company and entered the legal and surveying markets; and are prominent each of those markets today.
Location
Huddersfield, Glasgow, Leatherhead,
Worksop, Derby, Epsom,
Horley and Haddenham.
Number of clients
3,700 firms use our regulatory and business support services, whilst 8,500 advisers use our fintech platform.
About
threesixty’s experienced team of specialists deliver a range of cost effective, compliance, training and bespoke development support to over 900 directly regulated IFA practices, including over 130 discretionary management firms (more than 9,000 registered individuals). With a focus on investment orientated businesses, clients range from substantial national and regional sized firms to niche boutique investment managers and financial planners. All staff providing compliance or technical advice have attained level 4, with many being level 6 qualified or above. All of our services are fee-based and not influenced by a firms turnover or number of advisers.
Location
Manchester
Number of clients
As of 20 May, 904 directly authorised firms – 131 of those subscribe to our discretionary investment management services
Best Network/Support Service
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate a good track record in operating as a network for IFAs and/or restricted advisers and/or offering support service solutions for advisers.
Sponsored by
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About
Gallagher’s Health & Protection Division provides specialist consultancy regarding health insurance, group risk and related benefits. Our highly experienced team focuses on two primary service elements – strategic consulting advice and account management. We hold key intermediary status with all the major health insurance providers which ensures priority service on behalf of our clients.
Location
Stevenage/Home Based Consultants
Advisers
13
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Number of clients
5000+
About
Most know it as life insurance, we call it protecting families. And since 1998, LifeSearch have protected hundreds of thousands of UK families from the financial fallout of catastrophe, critical illness and death. Over 21 years, LifeSearch has grown into the UK's biggest life insurance broker, offering expert, independent advice to customers around life insurance, critical illness cover, income protection, family income benefit, serious illness cover and business insurance In two decades, LifeSearch has picked up hundreds of awards for its culture, expertise and customer service. Boasting a TrustPilot score of 4.9 (excellent), the company is ranked number #3 in the Sunday Times' 2019 list of Best Places to Work.
Location
London, Leeds, Milton Keynes
and Cape Town
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Number of clients
Since we set up in 1998 we have insured over 900k lives but can’t nesscarily say all are clients as being protection
a % will have cancelled
About
Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) is the UK’s most recognised mortgage broker, winning over 150 national awards for the quality of its advice and service. It has over 1,400 advisers offering expert mortgage and protection advice on a local, regional and national level to consumers, both face to face and over the phone. MAB was the first – and is currently the only – mortgage intermediary to have floated on the London Stock Exchange, having joined the Alternative Investment Market (AIM) in November 2014.
Location
National but head office is in Derby
Advisers
1400
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
In 2019, we handled over £16bn of Lending
About
Smart Advice Financial Solutions are the largest regional partner of the Mortgage Advice Bureau, based along the M4 corridor and the South. We are experts on all things finance, helping clients over the phone and face to face providing expert advice nationally. We are renown for an exceptionally high level of customer service, our experienced brokers and administration support team, not only simplify the house purchase process but take
care of clients for the lifetime of that mortgage, with a dedicated approach to the protection of the mortgage
and clients lifestyle.
Location
Bath
Number of advisers
36
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative of MAB
Number of clients
Total clients circa 10,000
About
?
Location
Macclesfield
Advisers
14
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Number of clients
Annually on average around 2,500-4,000
About
Vita was founded by two close friends, Barry Pappin & Paul Reed, who shared the same vision - to be trusted as the fairest and most credible insurance brokerage, giving unrivalled advice from experts that genuinely care about getting the right solution for every customer. Ten years on, and they’ve arranged over £1 billion of cover with the top insurers in the country, differentiating their service based on quality-led advice and sales processes.
Location
Cardiff, Wales
Advisers
13
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative
Best Protection Adviser
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate a good track record as a business and in providing protection advice to clients.
Sponsored by
The Value Exchange
About
At Age Partnership, we believe that people who are at, or approaching, retirement deserve to get the best out of life and their finances. Each of the services we provide are designed to do this. Established in 2004, based in Leeds, West Yorkshire, with over 500 employees, we have tailored a range of financial solutions specifically for the over 50s. We offer advised and non-advised services to ensure we can support customers to achieve their retirement objectives. We are the largest Equity Release advisor and one of the largest retirement specialists for pensions, annuities and drawdown.
Location
Leeds
Number of advisers
161 across both EQR & Pensions
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£50m
Number of clients
220 invested clients, 1600 non-advised
clients a year
About
Henwood Court are a lifestyle based Chartered Financial Planning firm specialising in helping clients transition from work to retirement. Their approach helps its clients identify, achieve and maintain their desired lifestyle, without the fear of running out of money or dying with too much. They focus on achieving life-changing outcomes for each and every person they work with. By design, they only work with a relatively small number of client families; a strategy which allows them devote a significant amount of time and attention to each client relationship.
Location
Sutton Coldfield
Number of advisers
6
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£160m
Number of clients
320
About
Retirement planning is what we do and all that we do. Since 1998, we have been providing comprehensive advice in all areas of retirement planning – maximising the retirement funds of our clients. We have established ourselves as
a leading adviser in this market and pioneered the use of computer analysis to help financial retirement planning.
This has enabled us to deliver a tailored computerised ‘model’ for every client which helps them to engage, visualise and understand their retirement planning strategy.
Location
Glasgow Head Office with
advisers throughout the UK
Number of advisers
11
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
Approximately £425m+
Number of clients
1,500+
About
Lowes has been providing independent financial advice to people from all walks of life and across the UK for almost 50 years. The company focus has always been one of personal service, putting the client first and striving to achieve high levels of client satisfaction, verified through biennial client satisfaction surveys, the most recent of which had 94% of clients rate Lowes investment advice and client service as 'Good' or 'Very Good'.
Location
Newcastle upon Tyne & Hitchin,
Hertfordshire
Number of advisers
18
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£950m
Number of clients
6018
About
Tideway provide wealth management and financial advice to the at-or-approaching retirement market. Our emphasis combines the twin disciplines of financial planning and investment management to select and blend investments to optimise returns, control risks and lower tax on an ongoing basis. Portfolios are constructed with
an emphasis on providing a secure income from a diversified portfolio, and wrappers such as low-cost SIPPS, ISAs and Offshore Bonds are used to provide tax efficient returns.
Location
London
Number of advisers
8
DA or AR status
Tideway Wealth is an Appointed Representative of Tideway Investment Partners
Assets under advice
£350 million
Number of clients
575
About
Wingate Financial Planning are a multi-award winning Chartered Financial Planners based in Caterham, Surrey. We are holders of the Investors in People Gold Standard, and are a firm who care deeply about helping our mainly retired, or retiring, clients understand and fulfil their lifetime aspirations.
Location
Caterham, Surrey
Number of advisers
8 on private client team
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£300mn+
Number of clients
c. 580
Best Retirement Adviser
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate excellence
in the decumulation-phase advice proposition they offer their clients in retirement.
Sponsored by
Best Passive Manager
This award seeks to recognise an outstanding passive manager. While cost is an important consideration for passive funds, it is not the only factor that matters, so our independent, expert panel, will also be looking for innovative approaches to research, style, diversity and efficiency. The winner should be able to evidence low tracking error, for example, but also that they understand how to provide value to advisers and clients in the wider sense, and are fostering a culture within the firm that strives for that.
Sponsored by
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Best Platform
Money Marketing is looking to recognise the top platform for advisers with this award. The award is agnostic on the business and charging structure of the firm (i.e whether it is part of a vertically integrated firm or charges on a fixed or percentage basis), but looks to focus on the platform services offered, from trading functionality to tools that help advisers service clients better.
Sponsored by
Best Protection Provider
This category aims to reward a protection provider that has demonstrated a clear commitment to exceptional production development and service standards. The award is not dependent on the size of the firm, or the breadth of the provider’s offering, but the winner must show their dedicated and specialism when it comes to meeting the protection needs of intermediaries and their clients.
Sponsored by
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Best Retirement Provider
The Best Retirement Provider award recognises a provider that has excelled in its offering to advisers and their clients. The award is agnostic on the key products the firm offers (i.e whether they are pension-wrapped), the structure of the firm (i.e whether it also gives advice and/or platform services), and the firm’s size, but looks specifically as to the nature of the offering for clients in retirement, from service and price to functionality and value, to see who stands out from the rest.
Sponsored by
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Best SIPP Provider
This category aims to reward a Sipp provider that has had an exceptional year. There is no size restriction
on entries, though firms should have a track record of operating Sipps of at least 12 months
Sponsored by
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for Air Later Life Academy
for An interactive technology solution for educating scheme members and improving their outcomes
for The Generation Game
for Taking On Your Future Together
for Sustainable Income Investing
for The True Potential Centre
for the Public Understanding
of Finance
Small Advice Firm of the Year
About
Joining Equilibrium in 2015 as a Client Manager (Paraplanner), Ben quickly recognized that the power of financial advice goes far beyond just investments or tax. Whilst he was happy to pass exams and achieve chartered status, this was a false summit on the path to being a great adviser. It gave him the “how” but not the “why”. Since becoming an adviser in 2017, he has committed to Equilibrium’s shared purpose of “making people’s lives better”. His focus is on developing the skills needed to help clients achieve financial confidence and to make better decisions for them and their families.
About
Chloé Moran is a paraplanner at boosst financial. She is passionate about financial planning, diversity and inclusion and educating the next generation on personal finance. As part of this, she plays an active role in the financial planning profession, writing a bi-monthly column for Financial Planning Today, is part of the PFS mentoring program and is often asked to sit on panels at events.
Chloé has won multiple industry awards and has also been recognised by three separate bodies as a “rising star”. She holds the Chartered Financial Planner title and is now working towards becoming a Certified Financial Planner.
About
Daniel Martin is Director and Financial Planner at MDM Wealth Ltd in Rugby, Warwickshire, where he is helping to run a family financial planning business offering independent financial advice to families across the West Midlands.
After successfully attaining a first class honours degree at Coventry University in Finance and Investment, he now returns to the University as a Mentor on their Wealth Management Mentor Scheme. In addition he also, sits on the schools advisory board. His passions outside of work are playing semi-professional rugby, keeping fit and spending time with friends and family.
About
Drew was named Succession Wealth’s Planner of the Year in 2018 and a Rising Star of the Business in 2019.
Having joined financial services in his native New Zealand, Drew achieved diploma status prior to entering the profession as a paraplanner in 2014 which then saw him quickly progress to an independent financial adviser role. Drew achieved Chartered and Fellow status in 2019. Outside of work, Drew is kept busy with two young boys.
About
George graduated from the University of Hertfordshire with a degree in History (2015). Since graduating,
he has worked at the James Hay Partnership, before joining Succession. After achieving the Diploma in Financial Planning through the Chartered Insurance Institute, George joined the inaugural Succession graduate programme
to continue his journey to becoming Chartered and aid his further development. George aims to build deep meaningful relationships with clients to help establish their goals and develop a plan to make these achievable. Outside of the office George spends his time attempting to play golf, cooking and spending time with friends and family.
Rising Adviser Star
of the Year
This award intends to recognise a financial planner making waves in their firm, coming up through the ranks with a dedication to professional development and becoming a truly top-quality adviser. While many candidates will be younger than the average adviser, there is no age restriction on this award, which is also open to new joiners to the industry from other careers, or who have just made the move to adviser status, but are making a big impact in the profession.
Sponsored by
Ben Rogers
Equilibrium
Chloé Moran
boosst
(for work at Rose & North)
Daniel Martin
MDM Wealth
Drew Nutsford
Succession Wealth
George Thomas
Succession Wealth
logo
About
Balance: Wealth Planning is a Chartered Financial Planning firm that offers goals-based, holistic financial planning, based in the East Midlands. With a forward-thinking team of 10, we all share a common passion to provide clear
and easy to understand advice, that enables our clients to do what is really important to them. We approach financial planning with the premise that money is simply a tool to provide us with what we need in life, and we help clients structure their wealth in a way that builds the future they truly want.
Location
Nottingham
Number of advisers
3
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£90m
Number of clients
220
About
Bluesky is an established firm of Chartered Financial Planners having been in business for over 20 years. With a strong team ethic we offer a relationship-based service working with our clients to help them answer ‘the big questions’ and to provide peace of mind - whether that be transitioning into retirement or provisioning for others. As progressive financial planners our work often strays into areas beyond those of a typical financial adviser, such as lifestyle coaching and cash-flow modelling. We are experienced in assisting divorcing couples and their legal representatives and are proud and committed members of Resolution.
Location
Lower Earley, Reading, Berkshire
Number of advisers
3
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£90M
Number of clients
310
About
We’re Independent and Chartered Financial Planners working with business owners, company directors and senior executives across Manchester and the North West. Depledge SWM are an award-winning firm operating within
the highest standards of the BS 8577 and ISO 22222 frameworks and in conjunction with Sense Network to provide quality long lasting financial advice. The business has grown year on year since 2014 and has built an experienced team of people which will grow in the year ahead with the recruitment of our third adviser and move to a larger office location that will underpin our future development.
Location
Manchester
Number of advisers
2
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative
Assets under advice
£161 million (as at the 8.5.2020)
Number of clients
290 family groups
About
Launched in the summer of 2018, Longhurst is an award-winning lifestyle financial planning practice based next door to the Silverstone F1 race circuit. Due to our location, we have a natural (but not exclusive) niche advising those
in the motorsport, engineering, and technology spaces. This is in part supported by our regional business podcast,
'Inside Silverstone'. Our focus is to collaborate with our clients on a deeply personal narrative that excites and inspires them; to install and build financial confidence; and to empower them to live life to its fullest – a life lived without regret.
Location
Silverstone, Northamptonshire
Number of advisers
1 regulated adviser
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative
Assets under advice
£25m
Number of clients
35
About
We are a small team of financial planners, wealth managers and paraplanners based in Bridgend, South Wales.
At Magenta we focus on the bigger picture. We genuinely care about people and about getting them to where they want to go in life. We just happen to be doing that through financial planning. Financial planning isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about helping people to enjoy life and achieve security and happiness over the long term. We love being able to offer reassurance, and to make people feel confident about their finances and happier about their money. That’s why our tagline is ‘Planning with Passion’.
Location
Bridgend, South Wales
Number of advisers
2
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£85m
Number of clients
264
About
As innovators and nurturers of the next generation, Murphy Wealth is known for its ambitious flare and award-winning financial planning team based in Scotland. As a proud family business with more than 43 years of history, Murphy Wealth now boasts a team of next generation planners from its investment in educational partnerships and professional development. CEO Adrian Murphy was awarded Financial Adviser of the Year in the 2019 Growth Investor Awards and has been increasingly acknowledged for his bold futuristic vision, making an impact in both the industry and the wider community. Murphy Wealth has taken Life Planning and Behavioural Insights onboard to develop a unique proposition with the client truly at its heart.
Location
Glasgow, Scotland
Number of advisers
4
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£120m
Number of clients
280
Small Advice Firm
of the Year
Firms should have been in existence for at least 12 months and be able to demonstrate a good track record in providing overall advice to clients as well as a good business record. The firm should have a maximum of five advisers.
Sponsored by
About
Carrington is a boutique Wealth Management firm, committed to delivering unbiased and professional financial planning advice, to our like-minded clients. We love people. Our focus is on putting our clients firmly at the centre of our business, building long-term, collaborative relationships. Working together, we help them plan for their future. We encourage blue-sky thinking, supporting clients in realising their dreams and aspirations. We want to hear their stories; and to give them the confidence and clarity to make the decisions that are right for them and their families.
Location
London
Number of advisers
4 active advisers, 7 DipPFS qualified
team members in total.
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£200m AUM
Number of clients
283 clients
About
EQ Investors (EQ) is an award-winning, boutique wealth manager providing financial advice and investment management services to individuals, small businesses and charitable endowments. We are a Certified B Corporation, the international standard for companies who believe in business as a force for good. Making a positive contribution to the wider community is a core part of our business philosophy. EQ operates a matched giving programme to help its clients and staff raise extra funds for their favourite causes and has set up the EQ Foundation as a registered charity. The EQ Positive Impact Portfolios are a unique proposition for investors who care about how and where their money is invested.
Location
London
Number of advisers
16
DA or AR status
Directly Authorised
Assets under advice
£1 billion
Number of clients
2500
About
Insight.Out Financial are a Northern Ireland based business that supports clients across the UK. We have family values and inclusivity as our core ethos and this is the framework for all of our client services, systems and controls. We provide specialist pension advice as part of our financial planning service, and pride ourselves on achieving the highest levels of professionalism.
Location
Belfast
Advisers
One authorised adviser
DA or AR status
Appointed Representative of Tenet Group
Assets under advice
c. £40million
Number of clients
Core of 175 active clients
Diversity Champion of the Year (Advice Firm)
This award intends to recognise a company – large or small – that has gone above and beyond in their efforts to improve diversity across the financial planning and/or investment professions. This could be through either internal projects they have run, or outward-facing initiatives that show a true commitment to putting diversity higher up the agenda and improving outcomes for underrepresented groups.
Sponsored by
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Company of the Year
The prestigious Company of the Year title rewards the best of the best, as selected by our adviser readers and expert values. Whether it is a fund, pension, platform or support service provider, the award recognises the firm that has given outstanding levels of service to advisers and their clients, and has made exceptional strides forward in enabling the highest quality of financial planning.
Sponsored by
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Home & Sponsors
Categories & Shortlists
Methodology & Judges
winners
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Categories & Shortlists
Methodology & Judges
winners
Winners
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Name to go here
Note from the Judges
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Thank you,
Back to Methodology & Judges
Back to Methodology & Judges
Adviser Firm
of the Year
Best ESG
Adviser
Best Financial Education Initiative
Next Generation Advice Firm
of the Year
Best Investment Adviser
Best Mortgage Adviser
Best Network/ Support Service
Best
Paraplanner
Rising Adviser Star of the Year
Best Protection Adviser
Best Retirement Adviser
Small Adviser Firm of the Year
BEST ACTIVE MANAGER
Diversity Champion of the Year
BEST PASSIVE MANAGER
BEST FINANCIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE
BEST DISCRETIONARY FUND MANAGER
BEST SIPP
PROVIDER
BEST
PLATFORM
BEST PROTECTION PROVIDER
BEST RETIREMENT PROVIDER
COMPANY
OF THE YEAR
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROFESSION
Winners
Click on the categories to learn more
ADVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR
Carrington Wealth Management
One word shone through the winning entry for our top gong this year: culture.
From trying to get younger advisers and clients involved with the profession, to a real focus on outcomes for customers, Carrington were worthy victors in the eyes of the judges.
The judges also lauded a confident, but respectful interview. "There was no assumption that anyone knows how good they are," one said. "But they came prepared, and prepared to win."
While they were the first to face the judges, Carrington set the benchmark
for training and development of staff, and a focus on broader professional standards.
1
2
With firm plans on how to evolve the business from here, the judges were also confident the quality of the firm would last into the future.
1
2
BEST ESG ADVISER
EQ Investors
ESG investing can often be seen as fluffy or vague. But our winner for this award hit home with the judges by really evidencing and measuring the impact their recommendations are having.
The judges praised some of the best reporting standards they had seen in the market which allows the firm to articulate its advice, as well as simply being enthusiastic and passionate about the subject.
"It's a core part of their philosophy, you can tell they really believe in it and are doing it to the best of their ability," one judge said.
There was also great commitment to explaining some of the complex issues in ESG investing to clients, due diligence on providers, and helping younger investors think about the purpose of their wealth, not just negatively screening out taboo companies.
1
2
Taking ESG seriously also filters down into how they run their own business, where they are also living up to the values they set for client work.
1
2
BEST FINANCIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE (ADVICE FIRM)
Equilibrium Financial Planning
Financial planners often champion the need for financial education in schools. Equilibrium have actually gone out an done it. With a free financial literacy workbook now in tens of schools, supplemented by workshops and teacher training days, the judges were really impressed with the philanthropic nature of the firm's efforts.
"It's really, truly altruistic, from a firm with limited resources," one said. "It's nothing to do with getting clients for them, at all."
Leveraging elements like animation, puzzles and interactive activities, the judges agreed Equilibrium's education would really resonate with children to "bring money to life".
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2
Using external expertise and keeping a smart eye on continuously improving their offering was praised, as was their determination to keep their activity going in an even tougher financial climate today.
"I just want them to do even more with it," one judge said.
1
2
BEST INVESTMENT ADVISER
Lowes Financial Management
No stranger to this award, Lowes Financial Management once again stood out as leader of the pack for Best Investment Adviser.
The company prides itself on being “fiercely independent” with experts and specialists in the field.
Our judges grilled the firm on why it deserved to win the coveted title once again and were in awe at the progress made in the last 12 months.
Lowes explained it is keen not to sit on it laurels as it outlined to the judges several services it had launched in recent months.
One judge said they were unable to find fault with the award submission, while others highlighted they were pleased to see the company had not become a victim of its own success and continues to push boundaries.
1
2
Judges were also pleased to see how satisfied clients are with the service they receive.
Lowes’ demonstrable competency helped set it apart from its peers although judges were keen to stress they were also impressed by the other shortlisted firms.
Highly commended: Longbon & Company
Another of the shortlisted firms to have particularly caught the judges’ eye was Longbon & Company, which demonstrated that being small does not stop you from being mighty.
The company clearly demonstrated it loves doing what it does and goes the extra mile for its clients and the community it serves.
1
2
BEST MORTGAGE ADVISER
Key Solutions Mortgages
The judges said the winner stood above the crowd, proving that staff welfare and customer service were placed above profit.
The winner was able to demonstrate a high level of service delivered and was well prepared for unforeseen events such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
The judges agreed that the heads of the firm were innovative and driven and that the firm was able to illustrate that it was a great place to work.
BEST NETWORK/SUPPORT SERVICE
Threesixty services
The judges said they were sold by an impressive, comprehensive submission, which showed Threesixty were really ahead of the game by proactively reaching out to regulatory organisations to help members.
"They are ticking all the boxes, they're modern, and getting out their flying the flag for advisers," one judge said. "Everyone could learn something from them."
Going above and beyond the traditional role of a compliance provider, the judges praised Threesixty for campaigning on wider advice market issues and leading front and centre in trying to move the profession forward.
While support on technical issues shone through, Threesixty also stood apart from peers by supporting advice firms on areas like mental health and culture to ensure the highest quality of professional standards.
1
2
Highly commended: NextGen Planners
While still a relatively new group, the objectives of the NextGen Planners network really resonated with the judges. The judges described the group as "innovative", "dynamic", and "positive".
With a community approach that so many would support, the judges also liked the focus on practical help for working advisers.
"This sends out a message to the market about a focus on diversity," one judge said. "It's where you would you like everyone to be in the marketplace."
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BEST PARAPLANNER
Sam Tonks, Succession Wealth
The modern paraplanner is not just a technical wizard, but is an integral part of an advice business, helping to push it forward. Our winner combined not only proven expertise in the core paraplanning role, but also the passion and heart for the profession needed to drive changes at her firm that improved the advice given. Sharing her enthusiasm for pure paraplanning with others, her training initiatives had filtered down throughout the firm, while gaining multiple advanced qualifications herself. Showing a strong grasp of complex areas like SSAS and IHT planning, and an ability to work side by side with advisers as a team player, the judges described Sam as an "honest" professional not afraid to ask difficult questions. "She should really be selling herself a lot more," the judges ruled.
Highly commended: Lindsay John, EQ Investors
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The judges agreed they had to recognise another applicant in a tightly contested race."She loves her clients. She loves her job," they said of EQ's Lindsay John. "She defines a professional paraplanner", combining a rounded package of skills with a desire to promote paraplanning to the wider community. Described as an ambitious, hard worker that showed the judges top level reports, a clear ethos of quality stood throughout her application.
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BEST PROTECTION ADVISER
Vita
Vita had a coherent presentation from a very passionate candidate. It showed a real awareness of the industry issues and where they fit into the big picture.
Vita really cares about its customers, was the judges’ verdict. The firm also evidenced impressive client retention figures and the judges got a real sense that, as their submission said, “the customer is at the heart of what we do.”
The fact big building societies have partnered with them such as Ipswich Building Society and the Mortgage Advice Bureau demonstrates their solid reputation.
BEST RETIREMENT ADVISER
Henwood Court Financial Planning
The judges praise Henwood’s pragmatic approach to planning and its ability to provide solid answers to a range of probing questions they had about the firm.
They were also impressed by Henwood’s approach to Covid-19, stating that the communication around the pandemic was by far the best of any entry. It really articulated how they as a business had communicated to clients.
They added it was a lengthy, but very clear and informative submission. Expanded service appears to be benefiting both clients and the firm. Their holistic approach takes clients through a financial life planning process which takes account of an individual's emotional as well as physical readiness to retire. There is a sense they are developing their proposition into the new world, and it is a very emotionally intelligent proposition.
DIVERSITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR (ADVICE FIRM)
EQ Investors
The judges deemed EQ Investors as the hand’s down winner for this year’s Diversity Champion Advice Firm of the Year.
After impressing our panel with a strong submission, EQ Investors continued to wow the judges in the interview session demonstrating a strong focus on social mobility.
The importance of a diverse workforce is clearly embedded within the company, the judges said, with one commenting that they were “emphatically supportive” of the ideas presented.
Judges praised the firm for an “outstanding job” and said EQ Investors is a shining example of what wealth managers should be doing and how they should be connecting with the public.
1
2
It was obvious to the judges that the company genuinely believes in what it does to better support individuals and they were impressed by its work both inside and outside the organisation.
One judge said: “EQ Investors has placed emphasis in addressing the areas which are proven to be where young people from low socio-economic backgrounds struggle, these being confidence, application and recruitment skills and building networks.”
1
2
NEXT GENERATION ADVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR
Murphy Wealth
Murphy Wealth stood head and shoulders above the competition for Next Generation Advice Firm of the Year, according to the judges for this category.
The firm’s use of internships, the development of a graduate scheme and how it has embraced technology helped put it in pole position for the award.
Its focus on a good culture within the firm was also something that the judges admired, as well as its efforts to better understand a client’s behavioural approach to finance to ensure advisers can help educate clients about their decision making.
Judges were pleased to see the firm experiment with different technology and its investment in the team to help people grow as professionals and individuals.
1
2
One judge said: “Client manager roles will develop into financial planners and will give good succession to their business and the profession. They also use lots of technology in their business, run community work and charity work.”
1
2
RISING ADVISER STAR OF THE YEAR
Daniel Martin, MDM Wealth
From a strong field, a clear winner emerged. A candidate that demonstrated not just an amazing commitment to quality advice, but also exceptional business acumen.
As a young planner taking on their father's business, Martin somehow manages to find time to work to strengthen the wider profession while juggling a thorough succession plan.
Showing quality strategic thinking and a firm eye on recruiting and building future talent, "he's simply changed the firm from a traditional one to something next level," one judge said.
Moving beyond product flogging to an understanding of behavioural biases and empathy with clients, the judges were delighted to crown Martin
the winner.
SMALL ADVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR
Murphy Wealth
There was no doubt in the judges’ mind as to who should walk away with the title for Small Advice Firm of the Year.
Having impressed another judging panel earlier in the day, Murphy Wealth once again cemented its place as a winner after a confident submission
and interview.
Judges were pleased to see the company invest in the growth of its team and its improved service with a “refreshingly simple” approach.
While Murphy Wealth has been named Small Advice Firm of the Year it demonstrated plans to expand the business with investment focused on people and technology.
1
2
The firm also showed a keen desire to be a role model for the industry, which didn’t go unnoticed by our judges.
One judge praised Murphy Wealth for its vibrant and progressive approach.
Our panel were also impressed by the company’s determined approach to keep coming back with new ideas and its truly client-centric nature.
1
2
BEST ACTIVE MANAGER
Baillie Gifford
Baillie Gifford scooped the prize for Best Active Manager in a new award this year which combined both quantitative analysis of performance with qualitative assessment on areas like process and culture.
Baillie Gifford was applauded for its strong performance, but also its focus on costs across the board, "ticking so many boxes".
Catering to a wide variety of markets through both funds and trusts, the judges praised the of their offering, but also on the information they put out to help investors make decisions.
"You can’t get away from the fact they have had outstanding performance over a number of years," one judge said. "But they've been proactive, ahead of the game too."
1
2
With enviable client satisfaction scores, the judges were also impressed with the honesty in the need to review how the controls they have in place when significant volatility events like coronavirus hit.
1
2
BEST PASSIVE MANAGER
Architas
For best passive manager, Architas was declared a "clear winner" and a "real standout" from its peers. Money Marketing readers were asked to vote for their favourite manager, before judges scrutinised their applications for
the title.
The judges were impressed by a very detailed submission from Architas, strongly evidencing how lower charges, controlled tracking error and ESG differentiation is delivered and maintained.
The firm could pride itself on a "robust" management approach, with more quality and depth in its responses to questions than others.
BEST FINANCIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE (PROVIDER)
Scottish Widows
In a very close race Scottish Widows had the edge. The judges described the Taking on Your Future Together project as not only well planned and well structured, but also fun and engaging in a workplace environment that is normally dominated by stale presentations from men in suits.
Widely accessible and open to all, the "slick" education really encouraged those that were previously unengaged to take part, and could illustrate clearly that they had in fact absorbed some of the lessons taught.
Highly commended: True Potential
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2
"The detail is fantastic, and it's brilliantly structured" one judge said of True Potential's collaboration with the Open University.
Providing a full eight week course that people could journey along with, dipping in and out, was described as an important and well-thought through initiative that also showed the value of focusing on the basics and how that could pay dividends for the public.
1
2
BEST DISCRETIONARY FUND MANAGER
Casterbridge Wealth Investments
In a close-run race, the judges thought Beaufort deserved an honourable mention. Providing a wealth of information and data to go through to give a clear understanding of why their proposition was top-notch, with good evidence of engagement with their clients.
1
2
It is hard to stand out in the DFM marketplace, but the judges ruled that the strongest entry was made by Casterbridge. The firm showed it really thought about advisers. As a relatively new firm, it showed humility in its submission. The background its staff have in the advice marketplace shone through, and the firm can already show its popularity with planners.
A compelling entry helped judges reached their decision with clear answers to their questions. The judges said they could feel a service element behind the firm, which wasn't just platitudes, but genuine.
Highly commended: Beaufort Investment
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BEST SIPP PROVIDER
InvestAcc
The judges were taken by the guaranteed income solution that no one else really does. It gives both flexibility and security which is what the market really needs since the introduction of pension freedoms. It also focuses on decumulation that is very relevant right now. A lot of effort has been put into the tools to help advisers.
1
2
InvestAcc had the strongest submission and answered all the points demanded in the criteria for the category. This requirement is often missed by entrants.
InvestAcc also had a clearly defined proposition for the market it serves and explained that very well. The submission talked about the training it has undertaken to help staff and the judges were impressed by the fact a company of InvestAcc’s size has a quality manager. This demonstrates dedication. They were also struck by the service agreement level of between 99.3 per cent and 99.9 per cent. That shows a strong focus on customers.
Highly commended: Novia Financial
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BEST PLATFORM
AJ Bell
From being a decent platform in the first place, the judges applauded AJ Bell for its improvements in the last 12 months. Described as having the "whole package" now after getting up and running quickly with new DFM functionality, the judges said this was the latest upgrade for a platform that was "constantly trying to improve".
Our experts added that the firm always made it easy to work with for advisers and for clients to get access to them.
BEST RETIREMENT PROVIDER
Scottish Widows
Scottish Widows has really improved as a firm in the past year. According to the judges, it is now "back in the game", after being right up there with the best previously, but then dropping off slightly in performance.
Among the keys to its progress have been better member engagement and information to clients. The judges said this award would be a good way to recognise that improvement, and encourage them to keep doing better.
BEST PROTECTION PROVIDER
Royal London
Royal London scooped the protection prize for putting in a lot of work in the last 12 months to promote the value of protection advice to the wider public. It has been heavily involved with initiatives to improve access to insurance, and the judges also applauded it for its work around mental health.
Highly commended: AIG
AIG were also praised for doing some innovative work to raise the profile of protection to help the advice sector get the message across to the public while the protection gap continues to grow, and for investing in good causes like disability groups. But what really deserved a note for the judges was its efforts to incorporate health and wellbeing into its offering to get people living more fulfilled lives, a "pretty big deal" according to one judge.
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Royal London
The judges awarded our top gong to Royal London this year. It's culture seeps out, they said, supporting the advice profession in a way that goes above and beyond its peers.
The judges applauded the consistency in its service, while also upgrading areas of its digital offering to fill gaps.
Royal London emerged a clear winner, the judges ruled, after coming so close in many of the categories it entered, showing a strong offering across the board.
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROFESSION
Ken Davy, Chairman, The SimplyBiz Group
His passion for his work remain unparalleled, acting as the face of the firm across public speaking events and awards submissions - not to mentioned
that passion also driving him to stand as a local MP to continue to fight the
good fight.
This Year's Outstanding Contribution to the Profession Award goes to SimplyBiz chair, Ken Davy.
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It's very rare we would find a reason to award someone the Outstanding Contribution title not once, but twice, but that's exactly what we're doing
this year.
Having first won the gong a decade ago, this person has shown no signs of slowing down - a remarkable feat as he approaches the tender age of 80.
Since he last won the title, he has not only continued to rail against the injustices of FSCS levies on good advisers, but has successfully steered his company through a stock market float.
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OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROFESSION
INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCE AWARD
Click on the categories to learn more
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO THE PROFESSION
Ken Davy, Chairman,
The SimplyBiz Group
His passion for his work remain unparalleled, acting as the face of the firm across public speaking events and awards submissions - not to mentioned
that passion also driving him to stand as a local MP to continue to fight
the good fight.
This Year's Outstanding Contribution to the Profession Award goes to SimplyBiz chair, Ken Davy.
1
2
It's very rare we would find a reason to award someone the Outstanding Contribution title not once, but twice, but that's exactly what we're doing
this year.
Having first won the gong a decade ago, this person has shown no signs of slowing down - a remarkable feat as he approaches the tender age of 80.
Since he last won the title, he has not only continued to rail against the injustices of FSCS levies on good advisers, but has successfully steered his company through a stock market float.
His passion for his work remain unparalleled, acting as the face of the firm across public speaking events and awards submissions - not to mentioned
that passion also driving him to stand as a local MP to continue to fight
the good fight.
This Year's Outstanding Contribution to the Profession Award goes to SimplyBiz chair, Ken Davy.
1
2
BEST ACTIVE MANAGER
BEST PASSIVE MANAGER
BEST FINANCIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE
BEST DISCRETIONARY FUND MANAGER
Best SIPP
Provider
BEST
PLATFORM
BEST RETIREMENT PROVIDER
BEST PROTECTION PROVIDER
Company
of the Year
PROVIDER CATEGORIES
Click on the categories to learn more
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
Royal London
The judges awarded our top gong to Royal London this year. It's culture seeps out, they said, supporting the advice profession in a way that goes above and beyond its peers.
The judges applauded the consistency in its service, while also upgrading areas of its digital offering to fill gaps.
Royal London emerged a clear winner, the judges ruled, after coming so
close in many of the categories it entered, showing a strong offering across
the board.
BEST PROTECTION PROVIDER
Highly commended: AIG
Royal London scooped the protection prize for putting in a lot of work in the last 12 months to promote the value of protection advice to the wider public.
It has been heavily involved with initiatives to improve access to insurance,
and the judges also applauded it for its work around mental health.
BEST RETIREMENT PROVIDER
Scottish Widows
Scottish Widows has really improved as a firm in the past year. According to the judges, it is now "back in the game", after being right up there with the best previously, but then dropping off slightly in performance.
Among the keys to its progress have been better member engagement and information to clients. The judges said this award would be a good way to recognise that improvement, and encourage them to keep doing better.
BEST PLATFORM
AJ Bell
From being a decent platform in the first place, the judges applauded AJ Bell for its improvements in the last 12 months. Described as having the
"whole package" now after getting up and running quickly with new DFM functionality, the judges said this was the latest upgrade for a platform that was "constantly trying to improve".
Our experts added that the firm always made it easy to work with for advisers and for clients to get access to them.
BEST SIPP PROVIDER
InvestAcc
The judges were taken by the guaranteed income solution that no one else really does. It gives both flexibility and security which is what the market
really needs since the introduction of pension freedoms. It also focuses on decumulation that is very relevant right now. A lot of effort has been put into the tools to help advisers.
1
2
InvestAcc had the strongest submission and answered all the points demanded in the criteria for the category. This requirement is often missed
by entrants.
InvestAcc also had a clearly defined proposition for the market it serves
and explained that very well. The submission talked about the training it has undertaken to help staff and the judges were impressed by the fact a company of InvestAcc’s size has a quality manager. This demonstrates dedication.
They were also struck by the service agreement level of between 99.3 per cent and 99.9 per cent. That shows a strong focus on customers.
1
2
BEST DISCRETIONARY FUND MANAGER
Casterbridge Wealth Investments
In a close-run race, the judges thought Beaufort Investment deserved an honourable mention. Providing a wealth of information and data to go through to give a clear understanding of why their proposition was top-notch, with good evidence of engagement with their clients.
1
2
It is hard to stand out in the DFM marketplace, but the judges ruled that the strongest entry was made by Casterbridge. The firm showed it really thought about advisers. As a relatively new firm, it showed humility in its submission. The background its staff have in the advice marketplace shone through,
and the firm can already show its popularity with planners.
A compelling entry helped judges reached their decision with clear answers
to their questions. The judges said they could feel a service element behind
the firm, which wasn't just platitudes, but genuine.
1
2
BEST FINANCIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE (PROVIDER)
Scottish Widows for
Taking On Your Future Together
In a very close race Scottish Widows had the edge. The judges described the Taking on Your Future Together project as not only well planned and well structured, but also fun and engaging in a workplace environment that is normally dominated by stale presentations from men in suits.
Widely accessible and open to all, the "slick" education really encouraged those that were previously unengaged to take part, and could illustrate clearly that they had in fact absorbed some of the lessons taught.
1
2
"The detail is fantastic, and it's brilliantly structured" one judge said of
True Potential's collaboration with the Open University.
Providing a full eight week course that people could journey along with, dipping in and out, was described as an important and well-thought through initiative that also showed the value of focusing on the basics and how that could pay dividends for the public.
1
2
BEST PASSIVE MANAGER
Architas
For best passive manager, Architas was declared a "clear winner" and a "real standout" from its peers. Money Marketing readers were asked to vote for their favourite manager, before judges scrutinised their applications for
the title.
The judges were impressed by a very detailed submission from Architas, strongly evidencing how lower charges, controlled tracking error and ESG differentiation is delivered and maintained.
The firm could pride itself on a "robust" management approach, with more quality and depth in its responses to questions than others.
BEST ACTIVE MANAGER
Baillie Gifford
Baillie Gifford scooped the prize for Best Active Manager in a new award this year which combined both quantitative analysis of performance with qualitative assessment on areas like process and culture.
Baillie Gifford was applauded for its strong performance, but also its focus on costs across the board, "ticking so many boxes".
Catering to a wide variety of markets through both funds and trusts, the judges praised the of their offering, but also on the information they put out to help investors make decisions.
"You can’t get away from the fact they have had outstanding performance over a number of years," one judge said. "But they've been proactive, ahead of the game too."
1
2
With enviable client satisfaction scores, the judges were also impressed with the honesty in the need to review how the controls they have in place when significant volatility events like coronavirus hit.
1
2
Advice Firm
of the Year
Best ESG
Adviser
Best Financial Education Initiative
Next Generation Advice Firm
of the Year
Best Investment Adviser
Best Mortgage Adviser
Best Network/ Support Service
Best
Paraplanner
Rising Adviser Star of the Year
Best Protection Adviser
Best Retirement Adviser
Small Advice Firm of the Year
Diversity Champion of the Year
ADVISER CATEGORIES
Click on the categories to learn more
SMALL ADVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR
Murphy Wealth
There was no doubt in the judges’ mind as to who should walk away with the title for Small Advice Firm of the Year.
Having impressed another judging panel earlier in the day, Murphy Wealth once again cemented its place as a winner after a confident submission
and interview.
Judges were pleased to see the company invest in the growth of its team and its improved service with a “refreshingly simple” approach.
While Murphy Wealth has been named Small Advice Firm of the Year it demonstrated plans to expand the business with investment focused on people and technology.
1
2
The firm also showed a keen desire to be a role model for the industry, which didn’t go unnoticed by our judges.
One judge praised Murphy Wealth for its vibrant and progressive approach.
Our panel were also impressed by the company’s determined approach to keep coming back with new ideas and its truly client-centric nature.
1
2
RISING ADVISER STAR OF THE YEAR
Daniel Martin, MDM Wealth
From a strong field, a clear winner emerged. A candidate that demonstrated not just an amazing commitment to quality advice, but also exceptional business acumen.
As a young planner taking on their father's business, Daniel somehow manages to find time to work to strengthen the wider profession while juggling a thorough succession plan.
Showing quality strategic thinking and a firm eye on recruiting and building future talent, "he's simply changed the firm from a traditional one to something next level," one judge said.
Moving beyond product flogging to an understanding of behavioural biases and empathy with clients, the judges were delighted to crown Daniel
the winner.
NEXT GENERATION ADVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR
Murphy Wealth
Murphy Wealth stood head and shoulders above the competition for Next Generation Advice Firm of the Year, according to the judges for this category.
The firm’s use of internships, the development of a graduate scheme and how it has embraced technology helped put it in pole position for the award.
Its focus on a good culture within the firm was also something that the judges admired, as well as its efforts to better understand a client’s behavioural approach to finance to ensure advisers can help educate clients about their decision making.
Judges were pleased to see the firm experiment with different technology
and its investment in the team to help people grow as professionals and individuals.
1
2
One judge said: “Client manager roles will develop into financial planners and will give good succession to their business and the profession. They also use lots of technology in their business, run community work and charity work.”
1
2
DIVERSITY CHAMPION OF THE YEAR (ADVICE FIRM)
EQ Investors
The judges deemed EQ Investors as the hand’s down winner for this year’s Diversity Champion Advice Firm of the Year.
After impressing our panel with a strong submission, EQ Investors continued to wow the judges in the interview session demonstrating a strong focus on social mobility.
The importance of a diverse workforce is clearly embedded within the company, the judges said, with one commenting that they were “emphatically supportive” of the ideas presented.
Judges praised the firm for an “outstanding job” and said EQ Investors is
a shining example of what wealth managers should be doing and how they should be connecting with the public.
1
2
It was obvious to the judges that the company genuinely believes in what it does to better support individuals and they were impressed by its work both inside and outside the organisation.
One judge said: “EQ Investors has placed emphasis in addressing the areas which are proven to be where young people from low socio-economic backgrounds struggle, these being confidence, application and recruitment skills and building networks.”
1
2
BEST RETIREMENT ADVISER
Henwood Court Financial Planning
The judges praise Henwood’s pragmatic approach to planning and its ability to provide solid answers to a range of probing questions they had about the firm.
They were also impressed by Henwood’s approach to Covid-19, stating that the communication around the pandemic was by far the best of any entry.
It really articulated how they as a business had communicated to clients.
They added it was a lengthy, but very clear and informative submission. Expanded service appears to be benefiting both clients and the firm.
Their holistic approach takes clients through a financial life planning process which takes account of an individual's emotional as well as physical readiness to retire. There is a sense they are developing their proposition into the new world, and it is a very emotionally intelligent proposition.
BEST PROTECTION ADVISER
Vita
Vita had a coherent presentation from a very passionate candidate. It showed a real awareness of the industry issues and where they fit into the big picture.
Vita really cares about its customers, was the judges’ verdict. The firm also evidenced impressive client retention figures and the judges got a real sense that, as their submission said, “the customer is at the heart of what we do.”
The fact big building societies have partnered with them such as Ipswich Building Society and the Mortgage Advice Bureau demonstrates their solid reputation.
BEST PARAPLANNER
Sam Tonks, Succession Wealth
The modern paraplanner is not just a technical wizard, but is an integral part of an advice business, helping to push it forward. Our winner combined not only proven expertise in the core paraplanning role, but also the passion and heart for the profession needed to drive changes at her firm that improved the advice given. Sharing her enthusiasm for pure paraplanning with others, her training initiatives had filtered down throughout the firm, while gaining multiple advanced qualifications herself. Showing a strong grasp of complex areas like SSAS and IHT planning, and an ability to work side by side with advisers as a team player, the judges described Sam as an "honest" professional not afraid to ask difficult questions. "She should really be selling herself a lot more," the judges ruled.
1
2
The judges agreed they had to recognise another applicant in a tightly
contested race."She loves her clients. She loves her job," they said of EQ's Lindsay John. "She defines a professional paraplanner", combining a rounded package of skills with a desire to promote paraplanning to the wider community. Described as an ambitious, hard worker that showed the judges top level reports, a clear ethos of quality stood throughout her application.
1
2
BEST NETWORK/SUPPORT SERVICE
Threesixty services
The judges said they were sold by an impressive, comprehensive submission, which showed Threesixty were really ahead of the game by proactively reaching out to regulatory organisations to help members.
"They are ticking all the boxes, they're modern, and getting out their flying the flag for advisers," one judge said. "Everyone could learn something from them."
Going above and beyond the traditional role of a compliance provider, the judges praised Threesixty for campaigning on wider advice market issues and leading front and centre in trying to move the profession forward.
While support on technical issues shone through, Threesixty also stood apart from peers by supporting advice firms on areas like mental health and culture to ensure the highest quality of professional standards.
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2
While still a relatively new group, the objectives of the NextGen Planners network really resonated with the judges. The judges described the group as "innovative", "dynamic", and "positive".
With a community approach that so many would support, the judges also liked the focus on practical help for working advisers.
"This sends out a message to the market about a focus on diversity," one judge said. "It's where you would you like everyone to be in the marketplace."
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2
BEST MORTGAGE ADVISER
Key Solutions Mortgages
The judges said the winner stood above the crowd, proving that staff welfare and customer service were placed above profit.
The winner was able to demonstrate a high level of service delivered and was well prepared for unforeseen events such as the Covid-19 pandemic.
The judges agreed that the heads of the firm were innovative and driven and that the firm was able to illustrate that it was a great place to work.
BEST INVESTMENT ADVISER
No stranger to this award, Lowes Financial Management once again stood out as leader of the pack for Best Investment Adviser.
The company prides itself on being “fiercely independent” with experts and specialists in the field.
Our judges grilled the firm on why it deserved to win the coveted title once again and were in awe at the progress made in the last 12 months.
Lowes explained it is keen not to sit on it laurels as it outlined to the judges several services it had launched in recent months.
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One judge said they were unable to find fault with the award submission, while others highlighted they were pleased to see the company had not become a victim of its own success and continues to push boundaries.
Judges were also pleased to see how satisfied clients are with the service they receive.
Lowes’ demonstrable competency helped set it apart from its peers although judges were keen to stress they were also impressed by the other shortlisted firms.
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BEST FINANCIAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE (ADVICE FIRM)
Equilibrium Financial Planning
for Educating the Nation
Financial planners often champion the need for financial education in schools. Equilibrium have actually gone out an done it. With a free financial literacy workbook now in tens of schools, supplemented by workshops and teacher training days, the judges were really impressed with the philanthropic nature of the firm's efforts.
"It's really, truly altruistic, from a firm with limited resources," one said. "It's nothing to do with getting clients for them, at all."
Leveraging elements like animation, puzzles and interactive activities, the judges agreed Equilibrium's education would really resonate with children to "bring money to life".
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Using external expertise and keeping a smart eye on continuously improving their offering was praised, as was their determination to keep their activity going in an even tougher financial climate today.
"I just want them to do even more with it," one judge said.
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BEST ESG ADVISER
EQ Investors
ESG investing can often be seen as fluffy or vague. But our winner for this award hit home with the judges by really evidencing and measuring the impact their recommendations are having.
The judges praised some of the best reporting standards they had seen in the market which allows the firm to articulate its advice, as well as simply being enthusiastic and passionate about the subject.
"It's a core part of their philosophy, you can tell they really believe in it and are doing it to the best of their ability," one judge said.
There was also great commitment to explaining some of the complex issues in ESG investing to clients, due diligence on providers, and helping younger
1
2
investors think about the purpose of their wealth, not just negatively screening out taboo companies.
Taking ESG seriously also filters down into how they run their own business, where they are also living up to the values they set for client work.
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ADVICE FIRM OF THE YEAR
Carrington Wealth Management
One word shone through the winning entry for our top gong this year: culture.
From trying to get younger advisers and clients involved with the profession, to a real focus on outcomes for customers, Carrington were worthy victors in the eyes of the judges.
The judges also lauded a confident, but respectful interview. "There was no assumption that anyone knows how good they are," one said. "But they came prepared, and prepared to win."
While they were the first to face the judges, Carrington set the benchmark
for training and development of staff, and a focus on broader professional standards.
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With firm plans on how to evolve the business from here, the judges were also confident the quality of the firm would last into the future.
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Winners
We hope you enjoyed the 2020 Money Marketing Awards virtual ceremony. Congratulations to all this year's winners and finalists!
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Provider
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Another of the shortlisted firms to have particularly caught the judges’ eye was Longbon & Company, which demonstrated that being small does not stop you from being mighty.
The company clearly demonstrated it loves doing what it does and goes the extra mile for its clients and the community it serves.
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AIG were also praised for doing some innovative work to raise the profile of protection to help the advice sector get the message across to the public while the protection gap continues to grow, and for investing in good causes like disability groups. But what really deserved a note for the judges was its efforts to incorporate health and wellbeing into its offering to get people living more fulfilled lives, a "pretty big deal" according to one judge.
Lowes Financial Management
Lowes Financial Management
Highly commended: Longbon & Company
Highly commended: NextGen Planners
Highly commended:
Lindsay John, EQ Investors
Highly commended: True Potential
Highly commended: Beaufort Investment
Highly commended: Novia Financial
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