The annual meeting of IFP Branch Chairmen took place on 14 September at the delightful Hogarth’s hotel in Solihull. There was an excellent turn out, with much to celebrate as well as planning for growth over the next few years.

The Branch Chairmen commit so much in terms of time and energy to support the local communities of the Financial Planning profession. As well as organising programmes and encouraging members to attend meetings, the team at Whitefriars also demand a lot in terms of feedback and statistics on the events they run. The common goal however is to grow the membership while delivering increased value for existing members through support of the regular meetings that take place.

A large part of the day focused on the core subjects which member feedback suggests people are looking for. Help with the Financial Planning process, cashflow modelling and fee charging were all at the heart of the thinking with an acceptance that gap filling and specific types of CPD are also going to be crucial over the next 12 months as people prepare for their first Statements of Professional Standing. All advisers, including IFP members, will need to employ a stricter regime of CPD activities to support the regulatory requirements. IFP branch programmes will play a really important role here.

There was consensus that the IFP could use IFP TV more widely to transmit key messages on a monthly basis ahead of the meetings. This will be an exciting action to take forward.

In the evening, individual Branch Chairmen who had done a particularly outstanding job during the last 12 months were recognised. Highly commended were two new chairmen in Paul Jones CFP^CM from the Lancashire and Cumbria branch (newly established in 2011) and Claire Menni who has taken over at Surrey branch. Congratulations however go to Robert Stevenson CFP^CM who looks after Northern Ireland branch, for winning the coveted Branch Chairman of the Year Award. A long standing Chairman and dedicated supporter of the IFP, Robert has managed to increase the branch attendance and exceeded the requirements set by Whitefriars.

As with any IFP event, an enthusiastic group of individuals were present all sharing a very positive outlook for the future, while looking at ways to improve what can be done for members. The community also benefits from valuable support provided by IFP sponsors who also evolve with the profession.

DBX trackers and UBS were involved on the day and demonstrated their understanding of the Financial Planning community and the needs of the membership. Their support remains essential and much valued as the IFP and its supporters work to maximise the opportunities that exist for next year.