Benchmark Capital, a leading provider of financial planning solutions and part of the Schroders Group, has announced the completion of the acquisition of Kennedy Independent Financial Advice (“KFA”).
KFA will mark Benchmark’s second acquisition in Northern Ireland, following the acquisition of Waterhouse Financial Planning in May last year, which first established Benchmark’s presence in the region. This forms part of the strategy to build a central hub in Derry, adding £80 million in assets, strengthening the local team and accelerating growth in Northern Ireland.
KFA is one of the few Chartered Financial Planners in the local area. The business and staff will become part of Benchmark Financial Planning, and will move to the firm’s new premises in Derry. Michael Kennedy will work with Wealth Planning Director Sinead Meenan who leads the financial planning practice.
This latest addition to Benchmark is part of the ongoing strategy to support high-quality advisers with a long-term view to their future as they transition to the next stage of their own unique journey. The support provided looks to align with the individuality of each firm and provide the tools required for each to achieve their own goals, from starting up or running more efficiently to accelerating growth and ultimately planning for succession.
Ed Dymott, Managing Director Wealth, Benchmark, said:
“Kennedy Independent Financial Advice is a much-valued addition to the Benchmark family. It not only has a strong reputation for providing quality advice but has strong ties to the local area and a deep understanding of their clients. We feel this very much aligns with our own values and we look forward to working with them to further strengthen our base in Derry and also provide support for future growth and development in the region.”
Michael Kennedy, Managing Director, Kennedy Independent Financial Advice, said:
“Our partnership with Benchmark marks an exciting development in the next chapter of KFA that will provide security and stability for our clients and our staff. We pride ourselves on our personal approach and working with client’s long-term goals in mind. Benchmark share this long-term philosophy and will enable us to deliver the same quality advice, but with the added benefit of access to a wider pool of support through their technology enabled proposition. We’re looking forward to moving to the new offices in Derry and the potential that this move unlocks for us and the commitment to Chartered financial advice in the region”.
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