13 Jul 2012
Francis Townsend & Hayward join forces with Wingate Benefit Solutions and Wingate Financial Planning to create one of the largest independent and privately owned Financial Planning and Employee Benefit firms in Surrey and South London.
The firms share a common history, having been established in South London and Surrey for several decades. The intention is for FT&H to move into the Wingate offices, as soon as the end of July, swelling the total number of staff based out of Caterham, Surrey, to nearly thirty.
We are delighted to be joining the people at Wingate, and the terms of this deal will give us increased scale and make us one of the strongest firms in Financial Planning 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.
Kevin Hains, Managing Director, FT&H
FT&H are a firm for which we’ve had an admiration for many years, and we’re delighted to be working together. 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.
Ben Clarke, Managing Director, Wingate Benefit Solutions
The intention is for business to continue as usual, but with the improved economies of scale that one operating centre provides. 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.
About Francis Townsend Hayward (Financial Services)
FT&H was formed in 1959 making it one of the longest standing IFAs in the country. The company has evolved over the years and now provides bespoke advice in all areas of personal and company financial planning. The main areas of expertise include investments, retirement and estate planning as well as company pensions.
