Surrey IFA firm merges to form bigger partnership
Surrey-based Wingate Financial Planning and Wingate Benefit Solutions has merged with neighbouring firm Francis Townsend & Hayward, Ben Clarke has announced.
Wingate managing director Mr Clarke, said the merger would make the firm one of the largest independent and privately owned financial planning and employee benefit companies in Surrey and South London - employing 30 staff, with the likelihood that more support jobs would be created in the future.
Croydon-based FT&H currently employs three advisers, and was established in 1959. The firm will move into Wingate’s offices in Caterham, Surrey, from the end of this month.
Mr Clarke said that the companies intended to operate as usual following the merger, but with “improved economies of scale that one operation centre provides”.
He added: “The technology platforms, tools and operating processes in use are very similar, but it is expected all clients will see improvements by adopting best practice from both firms”.
“FT&H is a firm about which we have had an admiration for many year.
“One of Wingate’s principal strengths over the past decade has been having a dedicated managing director role, and I relish the opportunity to lead the strategic direction of all three businesses, share ideas, and continue to grow organically and through selective acquisition.”
Kevin Hains, managing director of FT&H, said: “The terms of this deal will give us increased scale, making us one of the strongest firms in the area.
“The culture and focus of the firms are the same, making it an ideal merger. The combined strength of the business will help ensure we can continue advising our clients in the same professional and friendly manner for many years to come.”