Q & A with Chris
How did you get into financial services?
I was in the police for a number of years before studying for my degree in Environmental Sciences at the UEA. I worked as a microbiologist, as well as having worked and managed bars and restaurants before becoming an adviser – 26 years ago. I had always worked with people but hadn’t found my niche. A financial adviser I knew said I would be good at the job so I self-studied and passed the exams before starting my first job as an adviser. I joined Insight in May 2019.
What are your areas of expertise?
In addition to generalist advice, I have specialisms in retirement planning, inheritance tax planning, long-term care planning, business advice and more complex tax planning.
What do you love helping clients with?
It’s always been rewarding to be able to give people peace of mind about their futures, see them transition into retirement, saving significant amounts of money with tax planning and also to help out in more difficult times when family members need care.
People do not really appreciate what difference good financial advice can make to their / their family’s lives until they have spent time with a good adviser.
More about Chris
What’s your personal financial freedom dream?
To be able to travel more with my wife Sam without having to worry about time restrictions.
Tell us about something you’ve done to raise money for charity?
I raised money for MacMillan cancer support charity by competing in the Hyrox Open at Excel.
What’s the best thing you’ve ever spent money on?
Money I have spent on travelling over the years both on my own and with my family to live experiences and create memories.
What’s the one luxury you could never give up?
My coffee machine – I love proper coffee and probably drink too much of it.
Start financial planning earlier in life. It makes a huge difference when you get older.