Sheards Wealth Management has hired Richard Derdowski from Sandringham Financial Partners, where he was a business development manager. Both firms are based in Huddersfield.

In a statement, Sheards said: “Richard began his career in 2004 working for a national IFA consultancy firm before progressing to set up and grow a national advisory business, which went on to become the fastest growing firm within its sector.

“In this time Richard worked closely with a wide number of financial advisers gaining excellent knowledge of the industry and developing a passion for helping them deliver exceptional service to their clients.”

Mr Derdowski, who has over 12 years’ experience in the financial services industry and a Diploma in Professional Financial Planning from the Scottish Qualifications Authority, also used to work for Simply Biz.

Sheards said it has plans to expand the business.

Mark Stewart, director of Sheards Wealth Management, said: “I am delighted to welcome Richard. With a competitive growth plan for 2017 and beyond as a result of changing requirements from our client base, I am confident that Richard’s expertise and passion for providing his clients with outstanding levels of customer service to help them reach their financial goals will be of significant benefit to the business”.

Mr Derdowski said: “I am delighted to be joining Sheards Wealth Management at what is an exciting time for the business. With the future growth plans, I am excited to be able to utilise my skills and expertise to good use to help the business in achieving its’ objectives whilst supporting customers to achieve their financial goals”.