Ian Wood
DipPFS
Ian brings over 35 years of experience in the finance industry, having started his career in the West End in the early 90s—when the industry looked vastly different from today. In 2016, he founded his own Practice with St. James's Place, beginning with just himself and one assistant. Through dedication and strategic growth, Ian has significantly expanded both his Practice and client base, now leading a dynamic team of 20 professionals.
He prides himself on bringing personality to what can be a dry topic. He takes an honest, personable and open approach with a focus on ensuring that clients are at the heart of everything he does. No matter how much or little a client has to invest, he takes the responsibility of looking after other people’s money very seriously. After all, as the company name suggests, your wealth and finance really does matter.
The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.
About
Hear from Ian in his own words about his background and approach to being a Financial Adviser…
What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
In terms of my clients, it’s having a part in moving them to a better financial situation for both them and their families. And in terms of running my Practice, the most rewarding part is passing on my legacy, knowledge and experience – encouraging the team to not only meet but exceed their own expectations.
What difference do you make to your clients?
Taking them from at times a financially naïve position and elevating them to a different arena, helping them to grow their money more efficiently, be more tax savvy and aware of financial opportunities.
What’s your biggest achievement?
Along with my three wonderful sons (two of whom work for the Practice). I am immensely proud of the money I have raised for various cancer charities over the years. I have completed two London Marathons along with both the RideLondon100 and the London to Brighton bike ride, raising over £20k to date.
What would you say to someone who said financial advice wasn’t right for them?
There are many preconceived views of both the industry and of Financial Advisers, much of which is incorrect. I’m there to dispel those myths and reassure people that financial advice is for everyone.
What are your hobbies?
I love skiing, golf, sailing, property development and travelling the world (something I hope to do more of once I retire).
What’s one fun fact not many people know about you?
I once met the Queen!
The Partner Practice is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James's Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.
