Ascot Lloyd has appointed former St James’s Place area head of academy, Duncan Gregory to lead the firm’s new adviser academy.
The appointment is effective immediately, with the academy set to be launched in early 2023.
Gregory will be responsible for managing the launch of the academy, which will recruit individuals who are looking to start a career in financial planning and advice.
Ascot Lloyd said it will look to take on a diverse spread of applicants, with particular emphasis on providing opportunities for women and minority groups.
It aims to recruit from a wide pool, targeting those starting out in their careers along with those wishing to embark on a second career or returning to work after a career break.
Individuals will complete the CII level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning, becoming a fully qualified IFA.
The firm said it is “investing heavily” in marketing initiatives which offer additional support in developing a client portfolio as well as a small start-up of ready-made clients.
Speaking about his appointment, Gregory said: “I am delighted to have joined Ascot Lloyd at such an exciting time as the business continues to expand. The academy will be another way to recruit and develop exceptional talent, ensuring Ascot Lloyd continues to provide the excellent client service it is known for.”
A chartered financial planner himself, Gregory has experience in growing academies and IFA teams across the UK. Most recently, he spent the past five years as area head of academy at wealth management firm St James’s Place.
Prior to this Gregory also grew practices at Prudential and Towry.
Ascot Lloyd’s chief executive, Nigel Stockton said Gregory’s experience will be invaluable to the firm and the launch of the academy.
“The academy is being created so we can invest in our talent, growing our excellent base of advisers from within the business.
"We want a career as a financial adviser to appeal to a wide audience, from those starting out in their careers, to those looking for a change, and others looking to return to the workplace,” Stockton said.
jane.matthews@ft.com
