The chief executive of the IFP says he hopes to see Nick Cann return to work in 2014 after his stroke last year.
Steve Gazzard CFP^CM has spoken of the impact Mr Cann's illness had on his friends and colleagues at the IFP, saying it was a 'bombshell'.
He said: "We're excited about what's in store for 2014, and look forward to welcoming more members continuing from the membership growth we have seen in 2013 plus hopefully the return to work of Nick."
Mr Cann and his wife Jo were guests at the New Model Adviser awards in London last night.
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Mr Gazzard said: "To say that 2013 was a challenging year for the IFP is a bit of an understatement.
"The bombshell of Nick Cann's stroke in March really shocked everyone here and across the profession.
"However Nick's work in putting together a strong team here in Bristol, together with the fantastic support we've had from board members and many other supporters meant we were still able to deliver against our objectives."
Jo Cann will undertake a 300-mile sponsored cycle ride to
Paris with former IFP President Julie Lord in May to raise thousands of pounds for the Stroke Association.
Looking at other matters for 2014, Mr Gazzard said it will be a major milestone when the 1000th active UK CFP^CM is welcomed aboard this year.
He added the IFP is excited about recruiting talented new Financial Planners and supporting apprenticeships and graduates.