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Another Fantastic Hire – Say Hello to Rachel

We’re very pleased to announce that Rachel Connell has joined Accelerate as our newest Paraplanner!

Rachel comes to us with trusted experience in the industry and a reputation for being meticulous, professional, and an absolute pleasure to work with. From meeting through the industry and following our early conversations, it was clear she would be the perfect fit for both our team and our clients.

She joins Steph, Matt, and Ed on the paraplanning team and is already making a strong impact with her methodical approach and calm confidence. We know she’s going to be a brilliant asset as we continue to grow.

Welcome to the team, Rachel — we’re delighted to have you with us!

 

Celebrating Excellence: Accelerate Team at the 2025 Professional Paraplanner Awards

Celebrating Excellence: Accelerate Team at the 2025 Professional Paraplanner Awards

On 17th July, Professional Paraplanner held their ninth annual awards ceremony at the stunning Merchant Taylors’ Hall in London. Once again, we had the privilege of attending this prestigious event—full of celebration, team spirit and not to mention - fantastic food & drink(!) - even if it wasn't quite as triumphant as our inaugural outing in 2024. Nonetheless, we're bursting with pride to share the achievements of our incredible team.

 

Shortlist Success

 

We were delighted to see three of our team very well deservedly shortlisted:

  • Matt was shortlisted for Paraplanner Team Leader of the Year.
  • Steph earned her place among the finalists for Outsourced Paraplanner of the Year.
  • Emily was shortlisted for Administrator of the Year.

Each nomination is a testament to their dedication, expertise, and the high regard in which they’re held within the industry. Being shortlisted amongst the strong competition is an honour in itself—and we couldn’t be prouder.

 

A Remarkable Honour for Steph:

A particularly special moment came when Steph was awarded Highly Commended for Outsourced Paraplanner of the Year—just one year after being crowned New Paraplanner of the Year in 2024. In the year she became chartered (check out our specially dedicated blog post), this is a truly fantastic achievement, reflecting remarkable growth and consistency.

 

Looking Back with Pride:

 

2024 Outsourced Paraplanner of the Year Matt Winner
2024 New Paraplanner of the Year Steph Winner
2024 Administrator of the Year Deb Winner
2025 Outsourced Paraplanner of the Year Steph Highly Commended
2025 Paraplanner Team Leader of the Year Matt Shortlisted
2025 Administrator of the Year Emily Shortlisted

 

While results may vary year to year, it is brilliant to see the professional commitment of our team continue to raise our profile—both inside the industry and beyond.

 

A True Team Celebration

 

This year marked a special milestone—not only for our finalists, but for the whole team. For the first time, we were able to celebrate together with our 2025 new hires, Ed, Lily, and Rachel, who joined Matt, Steph, and Emily at the event. It made for the perfect get-together for the entire team and we certainly made it count – right into the evening!

 

Another Huge Thank You!

 

We’re once again grateful to Professional Paraplanner for hosting another fantastic event, and to the sponsors whose support brings it all to life. The venue was superb and it was a real pleasure connecting with so many talented administrators and paraplanners. Sharing experiences and ideas reminded us just how collaborative and forward-thinking our profession continues to be.

 

Another Excellent Addition — Ed Ellis Joins the Team

We are excited to introduce Ed Ellis, who has joined the Accelerate paraplanning team!

Ed brings valuable industry experience and has already become an integral part of our growing paraplanning crew, working alongside Steph and Matt.

From day one, Ed has fitted in perfectly — professional, highly capable, committed to mastering the processes and delivering the quality work that our clients expect. He’s already managing his own clients and progressing plans with confidence — a great testament to his knowledge and approach.

We’re incredibly pleased to be strengthening the paraplanning side of the business with such an excellent hire.

Welcome to the team, Ed!

 

Welcome to the Team — Lily Heath!

We’re delighted to officially welcome Lily Heath to the Accelerate team!

Lily has joined to support us as we look to kick-start 2025 in style, coming from an established advice firm where she built up strong experience as an administrator. She now works alongside Emily in our growing administration team.

Right from the outset, Lily has proved to be the perfect addition to Accelerate. She’s positive, proactive, and always willing to go the extra mile for both colleagues and clients — qualities we truly value at Accelerate.

In addition to settling in brilliantly to the team, Lily is also already making great progress with her professional development, having successfully passed her R05 exam.

It’s fantastic to see the admin team growing, and Lily is already helping us maintain the high standards of service we are proud of. We’re thrilled to have her on board!

 

Celebrating Small Business at the East Midlands Small Business Awards 2024

Celebrating Small Business at the East Midlands Small Business Awards 2024!

Last week, Emily and Matt had the pleasure of representing Accelerate at the East Midlands Small Business Awards 2024, held at the fantastic Village Hotel in Nottingham.

We were thrilled to be shortlisted as finalists after submitting our entry and ‘homemade’ video earlier in the year, and it was an honour to be recognised among so many inspiring businesses from across the region.

An Evening of Inspiration:

 

The experience was nothing short of amazing. The evening brought together a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and small business champions—each with their own amazing story of determination and innovation.

Meeting so many like-minded individuals who have either started their own businesses or work within one was truly motivating. The energy in the room was electric; it’s clear that small business owners are some of the most passionate, creative, and hard-working people around.

 

The Vital Role of Small Businesses:

Events like this remind us how crucial small businesses are—they bring diversity, innovation, and opportunity, often punching well above their weight in terms of impact.

We’re incredibly proud to be part of that community and to contribute in our own way through the services we offer to Advisers across the country.

 

Looking Ahead!:

 

Being a finalist at the East Midlands Small Business Awards was another milestone in our journey. We came away with fresh ideas, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose as we continue to grow Accelerate – not to mention our very own personalised flags…!

A huge thank you to The Small Business Awards team for putting on such a brilliant evening, and congratulations to all the winners and fellow finalists. We’ll definitely be back!

 

Marking a Huge Milestone – Steph Achieves Chartered Status!

We are absolutely thrilled to share some fantastic news — Steph has officially achieved Chartered Financial Planner status!

This is a truly outstanding achievement and the culmination of years of dedication and hard work. Steph's journey is a brilliant example of commitment to both personal development and professional excellence.

From Reception to Chartered – A Remarkable Journey

 

Steph began her career in financial services at Efficient Portfolio, starting on reception while beginning her first industry exam in August 2019. Her proactive mindset quickly saw her progress into supporting the admin team, where her natural skillset and unbelievable work ethic began to shine.

From there, she moved into paraplanning, where her technical ability, attention to detail, and empathy for clients became her hallmark. When Efficient Portfolio was sold, and Accelerate was formed in 2022, Steph became one of the founding members.

 

Building Accelerate While Chasing Chartered

In those early days, Steph wasn’t just studying — she was also helping to build Accelerate from the ground up. Balancing workdays with intense study sessions.

Over the years, she completed every exam with exceptionally high marks, even earning a high pass rate Award along the way. And finally, in October 2024, all that hard work paid off — Steph officially became a Chartered Financial Planner.

This achievement didn’t just mark a personal milestone — we’re excited about what it means for Accelerate as a trusted, established partner for financial advisers.

 

A Proud Moment for All of Us

 

We couldn’t be prouder. Steph is not only a brilliant paraplanner, but an integral part of our leadership team and a key part of what makes Accelerate so special. Our clients trust her completely, love working with her, and regularly praise her thoroughness and professionalism.

Beyond the work, Steph is also one of the friendliest, funniest people to work with — always up for a laugh and always bringing energy and positivity to the team.

Congratulations, Steph — this is so well-deserved, and we’re incredibly lucky to have you.

Triple Triumph at the Professional Paraplanner Awards 2024

Triple Triumph at the Professional Paraplanner Awards 2024!

We’ve just returned from an incredible day in London where we attended the 2024 Professional Paraplanner Awards at the stunning Merchant Taylors Hall —and what a day it was. We're absolutely thrilled to share that Accelerate scooped three of the eight national awards, a historic first for the event. It's still sinking in!

 

Celebrating a Clean Sweep:

 

Our team brought home the following accolades:

  • Outsourced Paraplanner of the Year – awarded to Matt Baird
  • New Paraplanner of the Year – awarded to Stephanie Tennant
  • Administrator of the Year – awarded to Deb Watts

Winning all three of our entered categories was beyond our expectations and a proud moment for each of us. It’s a powerful endorsement of the hard work, passion, and innovation we’ve invested into building something unique since we launched Accelerate in September 2022.

 

From Redundancy to Resilience:

Our journey began when we were made redundant from a local advice firm here in Oakham. Rather than go our separate ways, we chose to build something of our own and now that decision has proven more rewarding than we ever imagined.

We agreed from the outset that we wouldn’t compromise on quality. That principle still guides everything we do and the consistent, positive feedback from our clients reassures us that we’re doing the right thing—and now the judges at the Professional Paraplanner Awards agree.

 

A Team built on Innovation:

 

One of our biggest strengths is the way we work together. We genuinely enjoy working with each other and know how to bring out the best in our different roles:

  • Matt leads client engagement and helps advice firms identify opportunities not just for paraplanning and admin, but for improving internal efficiency.
  • Stephanie delivers the technical and paraplanning expertise, with a constant drive to innovate and elevate our service offering.
  • Deb leads our administration function with unmatched precision and focus on continual improvement.

 

Looking to the Future:

As we reflect on this milestone, we’re excited about what’s ahead. In October 2023, we welcomed Emily to the team, and we’re already planning to expand further this year. With a 3–5 year growth plan in motion, the best is yet to come.

 

A Big Thank You!:

We’re incredibly grateful to Professional Paraplanner for hosting such a memorable event and to the sponsors who make it all possible. The venue was perfect, the atmosphere inspiring, and meeting so many fellow administrators and paraplanners and sharing ideas reminded us how vibrant and supportive our profession truly is.

To our clients, peers, and friends—thank you for being part of our journey. We hope to see you next year!

 

Nurturing Mental Well-being in the Workplace

Nurturing Mental Well-being in the Workplace

In the fast-paced and demanding landscape of the modern workplace, the importance of mental health is gaining recognition as a crucial component of overall wellbeing. A healthy work environment not only fosters productivity but also contributes significantly to employee satisfaction and retention. In this blog post, we will explore the various facets of mental health in the workplace, understand its implications, and discuss steps we can all take to create a supportive atmosphere.

 

Understanding Mental Health:

 

Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing, impacting how individuals think, feel, and act. In the workplace, stress, workload, interpersonal relationships, and organisational culture play pivotal roles in shaping employees' mental health.

 

The Impact On Productivity:

Research consistently demonstrates the correlation between mental health and productivity. Mental health issues can lead to absenteeism, decreased concentration, and lower overall job performance. Addressing these concerns is not only a moral imperative but also makes sound business sense.

 

Creating a Supportive Culture:

 

Open Communication:

Foster an environment where open dialogue about mental health is encouraged. Establishing regular check-ins or confidential channels for employees to express concerns can break down the stigma associated with mental health.

 

Training and Awareness Programmes:

Conduct training sessions to raise awareness about mental health. Equip employees and management with the tools to recognise signs of distress and create an inclusive atmosphere where individuals feel comfortable seeking help.

 

Flexible Work Policies:

Acknowledge the diverse needs of your workforce by implementing flexible working arrangements. This could include remote working options, flexible hours, or compressed work weeks, allowing employees to better balance their professional and personal lives.

 

Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs):

Offer comprehensive EAPs that provide counselling and support services. These programmes can be instrumental in assisting employees dealing with stress, anxiety, or other mental health challenges.

Addressing Stress:

 

Workload Management:

Evaluate and distribute workloads evenly among team members. Encourage realistic goal-setting and provide resources to help employees meet their objectives without excessive stress.

 

Recognition and Appreciation:

Acknowledge and appreciate employees for their hard work. Regular recognition not only boosts morale but also contributes to a positive work environment.

 

Mindfulness and Wellness Initiatives:

Introduce mindfulness practices and wellness initiatives within the workplace. This could include meditation sessions, wellness workshops, or access to fitness programs, promoting a holistic approach to well-being.

 

Promoting Work-Life Balance:

 

Clear Boundaries:

Encourage clear boundaries between work and personal life. Discourage excessive overtime and ensure employees have time to recharge outside of work hours.

Annual Leave Policies:

Establish clear and supportive annual leave policies. Encourage employees to take breaks and use their annual leave, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

 

 

In conclusion:

 

Prioritising mental health in the workplace is not only an ethical responsibility but also a strategic move towards creating a positive, productive, and sustainable work environment. By implementing these strategies, organisations can foster a culture that values the mental wellbeing of its employees, ultimately leading to increased satisfaction, employee retention, and overall success.

Small steps towards creating a mentally healthy workplace can have a significant and lasting impact on the lives of employees.  Let's all take action to prioritise mental health in the workplace for a brighter and more resilient future.

Scaling Up: How to grow your Financial Adviser Business - Part 3

Welcome to the final part of our blog series, "Scaling Your IFA Business. If Part 1 served as the soil and Part 2 was nurturing the seeds of success, Part 3 is the harvest, where those seeds have grown into a thriving practice. It is here that we delve into the strategic elements that can truly set you apart in the dynamic world of financial advising.

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving realm of financial advising, the pursuit of growth and excellence is a continuous journey, a path marked by adaptation and innovation. It's about leveraging the right tools and technologies to enhance your services, embracing change as an opportunity, and having a clear understanding of your progress.

In Part 3, we aim to empower you with insights and strategies that will equip you to excel in the field of financial advising and elevate your IFA business to new heights.

 

Leveraging Technology:

 

In today's fast-paced digital age, technology is your trusted companion on the journey to scaling your IFA business. Leveraging technology can transform your business, enhancing efficiency, client service, and competitiveness.

 

Digital Marketing and Social Media:

In the modern financial landscape, digital marketing and social media have become indispensable tools for reaching and engaging with clients. Leveraging technology includes harnessing the power of online platforms to create a strong online presence. Develop a comprehensive digital marketing strategy to showcase your expertise, share valuable content, and connect with potential clients. Social media platforms can be used to build a community, share insights, and stay top-of-mind with your audience. Embracing digital marketing and social media as part of your technology toolkit can open new avenues for client acquisition and relationship building.

 

Robo-Advisors and AI:

Robo-advisors and AI tools have taken the financial industry by storm. These technological wonders can automate routine tasks such as portfolio rebalancing, risk assessment, and financial planning simulations. They provide data-driven insights and recommendations, greatly improving the client experience and freeing up your time for more strategic activities. Embrace these tools to stay ahead of the curve and offer your clients the benefits of cutting-edge financial technology.

 

Cybersecurity Measures:

In an era where data is king, cybersecurity is paramount. Implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect client data and your business's reputation. Regularly update security protocols and educate your team on cybersecurity best practices. The trust your clients place in your ability to safeguard their information is invaluable.

 

Data Analytics:

Data analytics tools provide valuable insights into client behaviour, market trends, and investment opportunities. Use these insights to make informed decisions, customise services, and identify growth opportunities. By harnessing the power of data analytics, you can offer more tailored advice to your clients and discover hidden gems in the world of investments.

 

Innovation & Adaptation:

 

The financial advising landscape is ever-evolving. To stay ahead of the curve, fostering innovation and adaptation is essential. Embrace change and explore new ways to deliver value to your clients.

 

Eco-Friendly Investment Solutions:

Innovation in the financial advising sector is also about aligning your services with evolving client preferences. As the world becomes more environmentally conscious, consider offering eco-friendly investment solutions. This may include socially responsible investing (SRI), impact investing, or ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) investing. Adapting to the growing demand for sustainable and ethical investment options not only demonstrates your commitment to innovation but also caters to a broader range of client values and interests. Innovating with eco-friendly investment solutions can set your practice apart in the industry and attract socially conscious clients.

 

Continuous Learning:

Invest in your own education and that of your team. Stay updated on the latest industry trends and regulatory changes. Continuous learning equips you with the knowledge and skills to adapt to the dynamic financial market.

 

Client-Centric Innovation:

Put your clients at the centre of your innovation efforts. Listen to their needs and feedback, and tailor your services to address their specific goals and challenges. Innovation that directly benefits your clients is innovation that drives growth.

 

Measuring Success:

 

To ensure your efforts lead to growth and improvement, you must have a clear way to measure success. Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly assess your progress.

 

Key Performance Indicators:

Identify and track the KPIs that matter most to your business, such as client acquisition rates, retention rates, revenue growth, and client satisfaction scores. These metrics will give you a clear picture of your practice's performance.

 

Client Feedback:

Regularly seek feedback from your clients. Their input is invaluable in understanding what's working and what needs improvement. Use this feedback to make necessary adjustments and refine your services.

 

Adapt and Refine:

Be prepared to adapt and refine your strategies based on the data and feedback you receive. Successful businesses are those that can pivot when needed and continuously improve.

 

In conclusion:

 

As we conclude our three-part series on Scaling Your IFA Business, remember that scaling is an ongoing journey. It's about evolving, adapting, and leveraging the tools and knowledge at your disposal to continuously enhance your practice.

By defining your Unique Value Proposition, expanding your reach, mastering time management, streamlining processes, making the right hires, and embracing technology and innovation, you're well on your way to success. Keep measuring your progress, learning from your experiences, and staying connected to your clients, and your IFA business will continue to thrive and prosper in the dynamic world of financial advising.

Thank you for joining us on this journey of growth. We wish you all the success in scaling your IFA business!

Scaling Up: How to grow your Financial Adviser Business - Part 1

Welcome to Part 2 of our blog series, "Scaling Your IFA Business." In Part 1, we sowed the seeds of success, exploring the foundations of defining your Unique Value Proposition (UVP), expanding your reach, and mastering time management and efficient delegation.

Now, we venture deeper into the garden of growth, focusing on cultivating efficiency and nurturing your team for success. Join us as we delve into the world of process optimisation, the power of efficient templates, and the art of making correct hires and retaining top talent. Your journey to scaling your IFA business continues, and this is where the seeds we planted in Part 1 truly begin to bloom.

 

Process Optimisation:

 

Just as a well-coordinated orchestra produces harmonious music, streamlined workflows and technology integration are the instruments that play a pivotal role in ensuring your operations run like a finely tuned symphony. Here, we focus on the principles of streamlining workflow and the strategic integration of technology, both of which are crucial for enhancing efficiency and delivering an exceptional client experience.

 

Streamlining Workflow:

Optimising processes is akin to fine-tuning the irrigation system in your garden. Efficient processes reduce waste and increase productivity. This not only saves time and resources but also enhances the client experience.

 

Technology Integration:

Technology acts as the advanced equipment in your gardening shed. It allows you to automate tasks, gather insights, and stay competitive. Embrace tools like robo-advisers, cybersecurity measures, and data analytics to optimise your operations.

 

Efficient Templates:

 

Efficient templates are the backbone of a well-organised and streamlined IFA business. They serve as the blueprint for various aspects of your operation, ensuring consistency, saving time, and reducing errors.

 

Client Reports and Documentation Templates:

Templates for client reports and documentation can significantly enhance your efficiency. These templates should be adaptable to various client needs while maintaining a consistent structure. They not only save time but also guarantee that essential information is included, fostering a professional image.

 

Email Communication Templates:

Effective client communication is crucial. By creating email templates, you can ensure that your messages are clear, professional, and consistent. Templates for common communication scenarios, such as appointment reminders or follow-ups, can save valuable time while maintaining client relationships.

 

Compliance Documents and Forms:

Compliance is a critical aspect of financial advising. Templates for compliance documents and forms help you meet regulatory requirements consistently. Staying compliant not only prevents issues but also builds trust with clients

 

Marketing Materials Templates:

Your marketing materials should reflect your brand consistently. Templates for brochures, presentations, and digital content ensure that your marketing efforts are on-brand and cohesive. This consistency strengthens your brand identity and client perception.

 

Meeting Agendas:

Structured meeting agendas are vital for productive client meetings and team gatherings. Templates for meeting agendas ensure that all essential topics are covered, discussions stay on track, and objectives are met.

 

Correct Hires and Staff Retention:

 

Building a high-performing team and retaining top talent is crucial for the growth and stability of your IFA business.

Recruiting the Right Talent:

Recruiting is an art and science. Beyond qualifications, seek candidates who align with your company culture, share your vision, and possess the soft skills necessary for client interactions. Conduct thorough interviews and reference checks to make informed hiring decisions.

Fostering a Positive Work Culture:

A positive work culture is a magnet for top talent. Create an environment where team members feel valued, motivated, and supported. Encourage collaboration, open communication, and a healthy work-life balance.

 

Implementing Retention Strategies:

Retention strategies are essential to keep your top performers engaged and loyal. These strategies may include competitive compensation packages, performance recognition programmes, opportunities for professional growth, and a clear career progression path.

 

Ongoing Training and Development:

Investing in your team's ongoing training and development is an investment in your business's future. Encourage team members to pursue certifications and qualifications relevant to their roles. Stay updated on industry trends and provide resources for skill development.

 

In conclusion:

 

As we wrap up Part 2 of our series, "Scaling Your IFA Business," we've explored the essential elements of cultivating efficiency and team success. We've dived into the importance of process optimisation, the incredible value of efficient templates, and the art of making the right hires while retaining your top talent.

Just like a well-tended garden yields a bountiful harvest, the efforts you put into optimising your operations and nurturing your team will undoubtedly lead to a flourishing IFA business.

In Part 3, we'll continue our journey, focusing on leveraging technology, fostering innovation and adaptation, and measuring your success. So, stay tuned for more insights and strategies to elevate your practice to new heights.