Drew Irving DipPFS, who has been appointed to head up the branch by LEBC Group, said changes to legislation and Brexit will make financial advice increasingly in demand and create more opportunities.
Mr Irving, who specialises in investments for high net worth clients, told Financial Planning Today: “With the exit of the advice arena by banks, higher qualification requirements for advisers and the removal of commission there is a huge opportunity for the Financial Planning industry.
“We, as a group, are heading for a record year and in particular the advent of pensions freedom has led to a significant demand for quality financial advice. It is an exciting time to be in the industry and as legislation changes more opportunities will present themselves.”
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Asked if Brexit offers an opportunity for planners, he said: “It is difficult to tell what the long term impact will be and we will be watching the situation closely. It does mean, for the next couple of years at least, now more than ever clients should be seeking professional financial advice when considering their investment options.”
He said: “The morning of the result was obviously a very worrying time for clients and we fielded several calls from worried Investors. At the time we warned against any kneejerk reactions and in the weeks following the markets have recovered so this has proven to be the correct decision. Obviously from a market point of view and the overall economy it all rests on the trade deals we can negotiate within Europe and importantly with the rest of the world.”
Mr Irving joined LEBC in July 2014 after he worked for Scottish Life/Royal London for 24 years in pensions administration, marketing, sales and then as executive consultant in Scotland.
Asked how he felt about his recent appointment, he said: “I am excited and honoured to be chosen to run one of LEBC’s founding branches. We have a great team of advisers and support staff and I look forward to working with them for many years to come.”
His appointment follows the retirement of previous head Colin Cameron.
As to what tips he will be passing on to more junior members of the team, he said: “It is very important to deliver on your promises and also have integrity – this builds trust and leads to repeat and referred business. My clients appreciate the fact that I explain complex issues in plain English which increases their understanding and puts their minds at ease. In terms of tips to younger advisers I would have to say building a strong network of professional connections is the key to long term success as a Financial Planner.”