This year’s exclusive conference and dinner for CFP^CM professionals was held in June at the Oxford Belfry.

From a choice of concurrent sessions in the morning, most popular were those on IHT, tax planning and care planning. The session on philanthropy also opened the eyes of a number of delegates to potential opportunities for working in different ways with clients.

Peter Legg and Tony Wickenden gave their usual Masterclasses and delegates were busy writing notes to take back to their practices. Tony even managed to squeeze in the unique offer that Technical Connection provides for IFP members.

As the deadlines for RDR approaches, the huge variety of material and ongoing CPD on their system links directly to the IFP’s CPD online platform. With imminent gap-filling material on pensions and tax coming shortly, this becomes even more valuable for members.

In the afternoon, the platform was given over to CFP^CM professionals themselves. The IFP was delighted to welcome Karen Schaeffer CFP^CM who had travelled from Washington DC to talk about her business and experience as a Financial Planner.

In addition to being a leading planner in the USA, Karen is also the chair of the FPSB CFP Council. Further outstanding presentations were given by Don Fraser CFP^CM of Grant Thornton and Pete Matthews CFP^CM from Jacksons in Cornwall.

Don explained how it had become possible for him to offer a comprehensive Financial Planning service and be well remunerated for the work that he does. Pete took delegates through his journey from the depths of Cardiff to the beauty of Penzance.

He showed how he was using social media and video in particular to deliver Financial Planning to a wider market. If readers want to view his award winning work they can find it at www.meaningfulmoney.tv

Closing the conference in style was Daniel Priestley of Triumphant Events, who has written a bestselling book on becoming a Key Person influencer. He inspired delegates to release their entrepreneurial flair and develop their rightful position within the market. As David Crozier CFP^CM said on Twitter afterwards, “Great talk, great book – now to implement”.

Daniels’ presentation supported the recent IFP survey of CFP professionals which indicated they have enjoyed more success and earn more money having gone through CFP certification.

An excellent dinner gave delegates a chance to reflect on the day and to enjoy each other’s company.