Bristol-based Paradigm Norton Financial Planning has won the Personal Finance Society’s Chartered Firm of the Year in the annual PFS Awards.

The winners of the PFS Personal Finance Awards 2020 were announced at a virtual ceremony hosted by TV's In for a Penny and Catchphrase presenter Stephen Mulhern.

Paradigm Norton won for its work with local debt charities, delivery of education workshops to schools and the way it adapted to the challenges created by Covid-19.

During the Covid-19 pandemic Paradigm Norton, which has offices in London, Torquay and Bristol, contacted clients to find out what technology they wished to use for virtual advice sessions and delivered webinars that were viewed by hundreds of clients.

Judges were also impressed with Paradigm Norton’s graduate scheme, the approach taken to diversity and inclusion and the way feedback is sought from clients on the service they receive.

Barry Horner, chief executive of the Paradigm Norton, said: “For us to win this award is fantastic as it says we are an exemplar of a good Financial Planning business.

“Culture is key at Paradigm Norton. Our four values are the heartbeat of what we do: People matter, setting the bar high, action speak louder than words and building for the future. We want to be a foundation in the building of a global financial advice profession.”

Picking up the award for Chartered Financial Planner of the Year was Robin Melley of Matrix Capital. He impressed the judges with his specialist knowledge, engagement with pro-bono initiatives and drive to deliver excellent outcomes for his clients.

The Paraplanner of the Year was named as Jenni Currell of Lockhart Capital Management.     

The full list of winners is:

• Chartered Financial Planner of the Year – Robin Melley, Matrix Capital Limited
• Chartered Financial Planning Firm of the Year – Paradigm Norton Financial Planning Ltd
• Paraplanner of the Year – Jenni Currell, Lockhart Capital Management                       
• Mortgage & Protection Specialist of the Year – Rousseau Khan, PLZ - Finance & Mortgage Management Company Limited                    
• Investment Specialist of the Year – Simon Watts, Boolers
• Retirement and Later Life Specialist of the Year - Sebastian Elwell, Switchfoot Wealth Limited

Keith Richards, chief executive of the Personal Finance Society, said: “The Personal Finance Awards celebrate excellence in the Financial Planning profession. Financial Planning can transform people’s lives for the better and I congratulate the businesses and individuals who won an award for their outstanding achievements and excellent work during these challenging times.”

• The PFS Media Awards were also announced with The Sunday Times receiving National Newspaper Personal Finance Section of the Year and FTAdviser / Financial Adviser named as Trade Press Personal Finance Publication of the Year. Justin Cash, Editor of Money Marketing, was named as Trade Press Personal Finance Journalist and Kevin O'Donnell, Editor of Financial Planning Today, was named as a Finalist in the awards.