What is your special interest or particular field of expertise in the financial services sector right now?
Now I prefer to pass on my experience; I have been in this industry for over 30 years. I like to ‘coach’ and ‘support’ others and help them get the best from their roles. At the same time, I love being able to work at the forefront and help support the direction the business is going in.
What is the most important aspect of your work, in relation to clients, or the part of your day-to-day role which gives you the most satisfaction?
Adding value; however big or small.
What’s special about working at Blacktower?
What isn’t! It is a brand I have had the honour to support and help mould for the last 11 years. I am passionate about the Brand and our Reputation; and the principles we stand for.
Right now, what is your one piece of invaluable information for expats or anyone seeking retirement planning and wealth management advice?
Do your homework; check and double check on the firm and adviser you are dealing with. I have spent 11 years helping build and protect the brand and reputation of this business – prospective clients need to feel safe with the people that are giving them advice. We have a robust approach to business and advice.
Blacktower already has a long and successful history in the sector, how will you and your colleagues continue to offer value to clients in the next 20 years and beyond?
By being involved; by being an important part of this industry and at the forefront of change and development.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.
I love to cook; and be creative in the kitchen!
This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.
The pension freedoms of 2014 radically altered the way many expats are now able to access their retirement funds. The changes, which came into force in April 2015, ended the age of annuity-by-default and allowed people to take multiple tax-free sums, have flexible options regarding income drawdown and provided more scope for 
Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy on 15 September 2008. With $639 billion in assets and $619 billion in debt. Their bankruptcy filing was the largest in history and prompted an immediate fall in the FTSE 100 of 4%. It was the beginning of a slump that by Christmas of 2008 had resulted in 23% being wiped off the value of Britain’s top 100 companies. As a stock market crash, it ranks alongside the dotcom bubble and the shock of 1987. However, while living standards have flat-lined since that date, the stock market revival has been spectacular. Many investors were, however, spooked by the financial crisis of 2008 and liquidated their investment portfolios. Unfortunately as shown below – they lost out on the bull run of the next 10 years.