The Simplybiz Group, which provides support services to financial advice firms, has rolled out an exit and acquisition scheme, which will be made available to its member and client firms.
The solution, named Horizon, stems from work the group undertook with a number of financial advice firms to enhance the support provided and also add acquisition and market specialists to its team.
Alex Morley, the former chief executive of Sanlam’s advice arm, will lead the programme.
“Through the Horizon solution we will work with both firms considering exiting the industry and those firms considering expanding their business through acquisition,” said Morley, who left Sanlam in March 2019.
“The group will facilitate honest and open discussions between buyer and seller and make the process as seamless as possible whilst, of course, ensuring the best interests of the client are always kept at the centre of all arrangements.”
Focus on independent advice
Gary Kershaw, compliance director at The SimplyBiz Group, added: “We are committed to supporting the adviser community at every stage of their career, from our apprenticeship scheme which supports those entering the sector, right through to those who have decided it is the right time for them to leave.
“As always, the group’s focus remains on the independent advice sector and Horizon supports continuation, not consolidation, of the sector.
“Horizon provides vital, expert, help to advisers who are considering selling their business, and those who want to grow through acquisition. Those who understand the advice market know that these points are not arrived at suddenly, and need a lot of thought and preparation in order to create successful transitions.”
