Financial Planner hire provides a wealth of new opportunities for Clarion

A fast-growing Alderley Edge wealth management specialist has made a high-profile appointment to boost its ambitious expansion plans.

Clarion Wealth Planning, which has been operating across the North West since 1985, has recruited Mike Barnes as its newest Financial Planner, taking its expert team to eighteen people.

The qualified lawyer brings with him a clear, thoughtful approach to building wealth that has been honed at the academy of a national wealth management firm and, more recently, at a regional financial planning business.

His arrival will help the firm manage a 33% increase in funds under influence, as well as ensuring it continues to deliver the highest level of personalised service.

“I have always been keen to take time to listen to and understand what my clients want, and this approach is something Clarion Wealth Planning are renowned for,” explained Mike, who also spent time in property investment before moving into financial planning.

“Its technical expertise is second to none and I was especially drawn to the clarity it has about who it is and the types of individuals it is set-up to look after. This will resonate with both new and existing clients. “

Clarion Wealth Planning was initially based in Knutsford, before moving to its current location in Alderley Edge.

The firm’s dedicated team of experts, which works with hundreds of individuals and families every year, is committed to holistic, lifelong financial planning that takes into account and respects every aspect of their clients’ lives.

An MBO, led by current Managing Director John Winstanley and Directors Adam Wareing, Matt Sherratt and Alistair Cartwright, was completed in October 2024 and gave the business the platform to increase annual revenues by 16%.

It now has plans to recruit an Associate Financial Planner and an Adviser Client Support over the next twelve months to support continued growth.

John Winstanley added his support: “Mike is a great appointment for our business. He will work closely with me in managing several longstanding client relationships, ensuring continuity and the highest level of service.

“This collaboration will also help me dedicate more time to drive our strategic development and ensuring we continue to create better lives for our clients – supporting individuals and families to use their wealth to live well today, while also planning confidently for the next generation.”

Clarion Wealth Planning is investing in integrating AI into its core business processes to streamline operations.

This will give its Financial Planners more time to spend where it matters most – meeting clients, understanding their needs, and providing tailored financial advice and long-term guidance.