Rowena Griffiths, Independent financial adviser

An introduction to Rowena Griffiths

Your career to date?
I started advising clients in 1991 when I was working for a major high street bank. However, my first introduction to Holistic Financial Planning was in 1994 when I joined a small division of Prudential called Private Financial Planning Services. I was able to study hard and gained my Advanced Financial Planning certificate; now known as ‘Diploma Status’. This was one of the most enjoyable jobs I have held, as Prudential has a strong brand and some excellent products. The main offering, however, was a Financial Planning Service which reflected the client’s goals and needs, rather than a recommendation of products to invest in.

In 2001 I was made redundant and decided to take a year off to travel the world. On my return, I was able to realise a longstanding ambition and become an Independent Financial Adviser. I joined a company called Sedgewicks, but left when they were taken over by Barclays Bank and lost their Independent Status. I have been with my present company for the last 6 years, offering the same independent advice, although the name above the door has changed a few times over the years!

I have been told by my clients that I add the most value by making complex and possibly daunting financial products understandable. I offer an initial meeting without cost or obligation.

What do you specialise in?
Occupational Pension Transfers.

If you could offer one piece of financial advice to an individual, what would it be and why?
Sit down with an Independent Financial Adviser (IFA) to see if they can help. The initial meeting is without cost or obligation and can help you prioritise your financial goals and start moving towards your objectives. A lot of people don't realise how useful it can be to bounce ideas off a specialist and how an IFA can add value.

Which areas of financial planning do you feel an individual should be addressing in the next 2 years?
In this uncertain climate, the first priority should be to repay debts and then build up a cash reserve. Once this is done, you can focus on your longterm objectives and should maximise tax efficient investments. Pensions have become increasingly complex and this is definitely an area where you should seek advice.

What is the most common mistake you find individuals make in financial planning?
I think a lot of clients ignore their pensions and investments because they find the whole area too complex. Unfortunately, investment opportunities can be missed which can have a real impact on clients' financial wellbeing.

As an independent financial adviser what, for you, are the main benefits of being a part of Honister Partners Ltd?
The current economic environment creates uncertainty in many areas. It is reassuring to know that Honister is well managed which allows me to get on with my job of advising clients.