How / why did you get into your line of work in the financial services sector?
I got into the financial services sector because of my passion for helping people. It’s something that has driven me throughout my entire career at Reeves Group, which spans over 25 years. There’s nothing more fulfilling than witnessing individuals set their goals and surpass their own expectations.
Around 30 years ago, I found myself deeply interested in business and numbers. It was during this time that someone shared an insight with me that would change my professional trajectory. They told me that I had the potential to switch careers into financial advice while still maintaining my mantra of wanting to help others.
This revelation struck a chord with me. It was a perfect opportunity to merge my love for business and numbers with my innate desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. I realised that by entering the financial services sector, I could leverage my skills to assist individuals in navigating the often complex world of finance.
Ever since that moment, I have dedicated myself to providing financial guidance and support to individuals, helping them achieve their goals and surpass their own expectations. Witnessing the transformation and success of my clients has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and it reaffirms my passion for what I do every day.
What is your special interest or particular field of expertise in the financial services sector right now?
As the Founder and CEO of Reeves Group, my special interest and particular field of expertise in the financial services sector right now encompasses two key areas. Firstly, we have the capability to offer regulated financial advice in both UK and overseas, which allows us to cater to a diverse range of clients and their specific needs.
Additionally, within our group, we have a team of specialist advisers who excel in two specific areas: retirement planning for individuals and providing guidance to financial advice firm owners who are planning to sell their businesses.
Retirement planning is a critical aspect of financial services, especially for individuals who are approaching or have already reached the age of 50. Our specialised advisers possess in-depth knowledge and experience in this area, helping clients navigate the complexities of retirement planning, including pension options, investment strategies, and ensuring a financially secure future.
Moreover, we understand that selling a business is a significant milestone for any entrepreneur. Our team of advisers is well-versed in the intricacies of advising company owners during this crucial phase of their lives. We provide comprehensive guidance, including tax planning and wealth management to ensure that business owners maximise their returns and achieve their financial objectives.
By focusing on these areas of expertise, we aim to provide our clients with tailored and strategic financial advice that addresses their unique circumstances and goals. Our commitment to excellence and specialised knowledge sets us apart in the financial services sector, allowing us to deliver exceptional service and support to our valued clients.
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?
The most important aspect of my work, in relation to clients, is the ability to positively impact their lives and provide outstanding service. Nothing gives me greater satisfaction than knowing that we have made a significant difference in the lives of our clients.
When we receive praise and expressions of gratitude for our exceptional service, it reinforces our commitment to going above and beyond for our clients. Hearing statements like “I don’t know what we would do without you” is truly humbling and serves as a testament to the value we bring to their financial journey.
Knowing that our work has the power to change lives is incredibly rewarding. Whether it’s helping clients achieve their financial goals, guiding them through complex decisions, or providing peace of mind during critical life transitions, we take pride in making a lasting and positive impact.
Ultimately, the satisfaction derived from seeing our clients flourish and knowing that we have played a part in their success is what drives me and my team. It fuels our dedication to delivering exceptional service, going the extra mile, and continually improving our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our clients.
What’s special/unique/most interesting about the region you work in?
The region where we primarily operate, the North East of England, particularly Newcastle, holds its own unique charm and appeal. What makes it special is the combination of its rich history, vibrant culture, and the warmth of its people.
Beyond its cultural offerings, the people of Newcastle are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. There’s a strong sense of community and camaraderie, which creates a supportive environment for businesses and individuals alike.
What adds an extra layer of uniqueness to our work is the presence of our overseas arm. This international dimension allows us to offer regulated international advice and tap into a broader client base. It gives us a global perspective and enables us to serve clients with diverse backgrounds and financial requirements.
In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, our dual presence in both the North East of England and Portugal reflects the changing dynamics of business and finance. It allows us to leverage the opportunities presented by globalisation while maintaining a strong local presence and connection to the community.
Overall, the combination of our location in the North East of England and our overseas presence brings together the best of both worlds. It provides us with a unique perspective, enriches our understanding of different markets, and enables us to offer a comprehensive range of financial services to clients both locally and internationally.
How has the market / industry / your client base been impacted by Brexit?
Brexit has undoubtedly had a significant impact on the market, industry, and our client base. The process of the UK leaving the European Union brought about a period of uncertainty, which affected various aspects of the financial landscape.
One of the key areas impacted by Brexit is market volatility. The uncertainty surrounding trade agreements, regulations, and the overall future relationship between the UK and the EU has created fluctuations in the financial markets. Investors have faced challenges in predicting market movements and adapting their investment strategies accordingly.
Moreover, the combination of Brexit and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the complexity of the investment landscape. The global economic slowdown and disrupted supply chains caused by the pandemic, coupled with the changes brought about by Brexit, have made investment decisions more intricate and risk-prone.
In terms of our client base, Brexit has had varied effects. Brexit has influenced client sentiment and investment behaviour. Many individuals have become more cautious and risk-averse, which has affected investment decisions and overall market activity.
However, it’s worth noting that amidst these challenges, opportunities have also emerged. As the UK establishes its position outside the EU, new trade agreements and partnerships may present fresh avenues for growth and investment. Navigating these changes and identifying opportunities requires careful analysis, adaptability, and strategic decision-making.
Overall, the combined impact of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic has created a complex and challenging environment for the market, industry, and our client base. The key to managing these uncertainties lies in staying informed, adopting a proactive approach to risk management, and providing tailored advice to clients to help them navigate the evolving landscape.
Right now, what is your one piece of invaluable information for expats or anyone seeking retirement planning and wealth management advice?
For expats or anyone seeking retirement planning and wealth management advice, my one invaluable piece of information would be to work with an experienced adviser and plan ahead.
Retirement planning and managing wealth can be complex and multifaceted, particularly for expats who may face unique challenges related to international tax regulations, cross-border investments, and diverse retirement systems. By partnering with an experienced adviser, you gain access to their expertise, knowledge, and insights, which can prove invaluable in navigating these complexities.
An experienced adviser can help you assess your financial situation, define your retirement goals, and create a personalised retirement plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. They can provide guidance on various aspects, including investment strategies, tax optimisation, risk management, and asset allocation.
Planning ahead is also crucial. The earlier you start planning for retirement, the more time you have to build and grow your wealth, take advantage of compounding returns, and make adjustments as needed along the way. A long-term perspective is key when it comes to retirement planning.
Additionally, staying informed and regularly reviewing your retirement plan is essential. Financial markets, regulations, and personal circumstances can change over time, and it’s important to ensure that your retirement plan remains aligned with your goals and adapts to any new developments.
Remember, retirement planning is a dynamic process that requires ongoing monitoring and adjustments. By working with an experienced adviser and planning ahead, you can have confidence in your retirement strategy, make informed decisions, and take proactive steps to achieve the financial security and peace of mind you desire.
What would be your advice to any firm seeking licencing permissions under an international network?
My advice to any firm seeking licensing permissions under an international network would be to recognise the complexity of the process and seek professional advice.
Obtaining licensing permissions for international operations involves navigating a myriad of legal, regulatory, and compliance requirements specific to each jurisdiction. It can be a complex and time-consuming endeavour, with significant implications for the firm’s ability to operate successfully in different countries.
To ensure a smooth and successful licensing process, it is essential to seek advice from professionals who specialise in international licensing and regulatory matters.
Nexus Global and Blacktower already have a long and successful history in the sector, how will your firm continue to offer value to clients in the next 20 years and beyond?
Reeves will continue to offer value to clients in the next 20 years and beyond through a client-centric approach, expertise and innovation, comprehensive service offerings, collaboration and partnerships, embracing technology, and upholding ethics and transparency. Our commitment to long-term, meaningful relationships will remain the foundation of our value proposition.
Tell us an interesting fact about yourself
An interesting fact about me is that I have had the incredible opportunity to attend five FIFA World Cups. Experiencing the energy and camaraderie of such prestigious sporting events has been truly memorable.
Tell us anything else you want to share
One principle that I firmly believe in is the importance of looking after people. Whether it’s your team members, clients, or individuals in your personal life, prioritising their well-being and nurturing strong relationships is key.
By demonstrating care, support, and empathy, you not only foster a positive and inclusive environment but also cultivate loyalty and mutual respect. Ultimately, when you invest in the people around you, they are more likely to reciprocate and support you in return. Building meaningful connections and fostering a culture of support and kindness can create a ripple effect, positively impacting both personal and professional spheres of life.
