Andrew Elson, Chartered Financial Planner

An introduction to Andrew Elson

Your career to date?
I joined the Financial Services Profession in September 1988, initially working for a major high street bank. In June 2004 I left the bank to set up my own business and become an Independent Financial Adviser.

Typically, we work with clients who want help to organise their financial affairs and are looking to work with a Financial Planner on a regular basis. We create a financial plan with you that will give you the best chance of achieving your lifestyle and financial goals. Once the plan is created we work with you to ensure it is implemented and then provide regular reviews to ensure it remains relevant. Basically we provide organisation, direction and reassurance around money.

For your Investments and Pensions we will help you to create an investment strategy designed to achieve your goals, whilst adhering to the risk tolerances you are willing to take.

Our clients are usually business owners, professionals (such as doctors, solicitors, accountants) or Trustees of a Trust.

I believe that financial planning is an ongoing process, providing not only timely advice, but solutions that are creative, appropriate and practical, to enable clients to achieve their financial goals, despite changing circumstances.

If you could offer one piece of financial advice to an individual, what would it be and why?
Take the time to sit down and understand what your current financial position is, so you can work out the steps you need to take to achieve your goals.

Which areas of financial planning do you feel an individual should be addressing in the next 2 years?
One of the most important areas would be the reduction of expensive debt. Secondly, to be sure you are financially protected against financial disasters.

What is the most common mistake you find individuals make in financial planning?
Buying a financial product, but then never reviewing it to ensure it still matches their personal circumstances or economic environment.

As an independent financial adviser what, for you, are the main benefits of being a part of Honister Partners Ltd?
Being able to negotiate better deals with our suppliers that bring financial benefits to our clients.