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Lifetime ISA reform

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Spring clean your finances: Ten financial planning essentials

Tax rates & allowances

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Alistair joined EQ Investors in early 2025 as a Business Development Manager, responsible for helping financial advisers across the UK and offshore meet the needs of their sustainably-minded clients. 

While near completion in obtaining an MSc in Environmental Strategy, Alistair also holds an MSc in Finance &amp; Investment. 

He brings nine years of investment industry experience, with over five of these spent supporting advisers across a range of different product sets, from tax planning to portfolio management.

Outside of work Alistair is captain of his tennis team, a beloved Arsenal fan and a music enthusiast, having been a professional disc jockey in his younger years!

Alistair Yeoman-Laʊ

Amir Ali

I am an experienced and dedicated Financial Planner who joined EQ Investors in 2023. With over 16 years in Financial Services—and a specialist focus on comprehensive financial planning since 2019—I truly enjoy helping my clients navigate their financial future.

My planning approach isn't just about spreadsheets; it's about building a clear road map. I use sophisticated cash flow modelling software to stress-test your goals, allowing you to clearly see your financial future and plan with confidence. A key priority for me is ensuring you’re maximising every available opportunity, utilising tax reliefs and allowances to make your wealth work as hard as possible.

You will always know exactly where you stand with me. I commit to presenting all advice with complete clarity, breaking down complex details, outlining all your options, and fully explaining recommended solutions. My goal is to ensure you feel completely informed and empowered to make sound financial decisions.

I hold the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, along with certificates in Discretionary Investment Management and Securities Advice &amp; Dealing. I am currently working toward my Chartered Financial Planner status. My foundation is built on a strong mathematical background, having studied Mathematics with Actuarial Science at the University of Southampton.

Away from the office, I enjoy an active life, including cycling and travel. I'm a keen board game enthusiast and you can often find me cheering on Chelsea.

Andrew Birrell

Andrew has over 35 years’ experience in the financial services profession. He started in retail banking, progressing to a bank manager by the age of 30. He left his role as a Wealth Manager in 2000 to become an Independent Financial Adviser and to specialise in Holistic Financial Planning and Wealth Management.

Andrew has a strong commitment to customer service, having established many long-standing client relationships, looking after some clients for over 25 years. He has achieved Chartered Financial Planner status and holds the specialist Care Fees Planning qualification.

Andrew is married with three sons and has spent many years as a trustee for a number of local charities. He is involved in the leadership of his local church and is also a supporter of Stewardship, a charity providing education in better money management.

Andrew Meade

Andrew is an Investment Manager in the Bespoke team &amp; lead manager of the Blended World strategy. He joined EQ Investors from Tilney Bestinvest where he was an Associate Director of Investment Management. Andrew’s area of expertise is managing bespoke portfolio mandates for private clients, Trusts, charities and large family office accounts.

Andrew has a Masters in Wealth Management from the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment, a MSc in Finance and Investment from BPP Business School in London and a BA from McGill University in Canada.

Outside of the office Andrew enjoys spending time with his young family and labrador.

Andrew Rees

Angel Ojera

Arjun Parekh

Arjun Wariabharaj

Ben Webb

Ben joined EQ in 2015 and has over 20 years’ of experience across the pensions, financial technology and wealth management sectors. At EQ, he is responsible for developing, managing and implementing the marketing communications strategy.

Outside of work, Ben’s two daughters keep him busy. He enjoys keeping fit, especially running and cycling along the Pilgrim’s Way.

Ben Faulkner

Buse Dolu

Office Manager &amp; Charity Trustee.

Taking care of her thoroughbred racing stable...

Catherine Deptford

Damien has an MSc in Management from Reims Management School and an MSc in Wealth and Asset Management from ESCP-EAP Paris Business School. He is also a CFA charter holder, being a regular member of the CFA Institute and CFA UK society.

Before joining EQ Investors, Damien worked for Bank of America Merrill Lynch being responsible for asset allocation, security selection and portfolio construction. Damien now acts as the portfolio manager for the EQ Positive Impact &amp; Future Leaders portfolios and brings an incredible enthusiasm for spreading the word about the benefits of impact investing.

Damien Lardoux

As an Investment Manager I enable clients to achieve social and environmental impact with their investments. The transition to a low carbon economy and sustainability revolution, combined with rapid technological change offers unprecedented levels of opportunity. 

EQ Investors is a founding UK B Corporation, and our ethos leads us to seek excellence in all that we do for our clients, putting long term relationships ahead of short-term profit targets. We offer a wide range of services to UK private clients ranging from those with portfolios of £15,000 to more than £20 million, to small businesses and charitable endowments.

Away from the office I enjoy climbing, sailing, road cycling and swimming, previously at a national level... all the while engaged in a perennial struggle to improve my German!

Daniel Bland

Debra Hensman

I joined EQ in 2017, with a background in financial services encompassing both providers and financial planners. 

At EQ, I'm part of the Technical Consulting team responsible for working with the advisers in creating tailored strategies that align with our clients’ financial goals and ethical values.

Outside of work, I enjoy volunteering with local environmental projects.

Emma Woods

I am a Chartered Wealth Manager with over 10 years’ experience advising families, business owners &amp; retirees on their financial planning and investments. I specialise in retirement planning, Estate &amp; Inheritance Tax advice, and helping clients grow &amp; protect their savings &amp; investments. I also run one of the Financial Advice Teams looking after our clients. 

Over 10 years ago I was attracted by EQ’s drive to create positive change in our industry and deliver a great experience for clients. Business is about people, not just the numbers. This remains as true now as it ever was, so we have attracted a team that recognise &amp; value this. EQ continues to have a broad positive impact with its services &amp; investments, long may this continue. 

Away from work I’m a keen chef, (very) amateur-DIY enthusiast, and trying to improve my tennis.

Freddie Cleworth

Gary Rogers

Hamed Kone

Harriet Castillo

Hershys Amoncio

James Sargent

I’m a chartered financial planner with around ten years of experience in the industry. Before this, I worked in institutional finance specialising in derivatives at firms including JP Morgan, Bank of New York, and DTCC.

Outside of work, I enjoy boxing, reading, and now, much to my surprise, running, having completed the Lisbon marathon in October.

James Murry

Jeannie has been working in financial services for over 14 years. She joined EQ in 2008 as a Technical Consultant and since 2010 has been a Director of the firm.

When providing advice, Jeannie focuses on clear communication, so that her clients fully understand the facts, options and recommended solutions, enabling them to make well-informed decisions. As a Director, Jeannie concentrates her efforts on ensuring the advice provided across EQ is of an exceptional standard, putting in place processes and systems to ensure our clients remain at the heart of our business.

Jeannie is a Chartered Financial Planner, a Fellow of the Personal Finance Society and in 2015 won Money Management’s Ethical Financial Planner of the Year Award. She appears regularly in national and trade media outlets discussing personal finance issues.

Outside of work, Jeannie enjoys yoga, hiking, triathlons and live music.

Jeannie Boyle

Jeff Brown

Jeremy Gray

Johnny Bowie

John is Chair of EQ. After gaining an MA in Engineering at Clare College, Cambridge he went into the City as a research analyst for 10 years then, in 1986, he set up Bestinvest. Over the next 20 years it became a leading private client advisory and wealth management business with over 50,000 clients and was acquired by 3i in 2007.

In 2014 John acquired EQ and acted as CEO until 2021. During this period it became one of the first UK certified B-Corporations, enjoyed industry leading organic growth and won multiple awards. 

He also established and continues to lead The EQ Foundation - a registered charity that is at the forefront of driving change in that sector.

John enjoys competing in historic motorsport and croquet.

John Spiers MBE

I transitioned into the financial services industry in 2012 after an early career in architecture and property. I joined EQ Investors in early 2022, recognising it as the ideal place to support my clients over the very long term. Since then, I have been a proactive and, I hope, valued member of the team.

I provide high-quality, personalised financial advice, specialising in helping high-value clients navigate complex financial decisions and structures. My expertise includes detailed tax planning, wealth preservation strategies, and sophisticated structures such as Small Self-Administered Schemes (SSASs) and Family Investment Companies. I also have extensive experience supporting recipients of Personal Injury Settlements, working closely with them and their legal advisers to ensure the best possible financial outcomes.

Taking a holistic approach, I often collaborate with clients’ other professional advisers to create seamless, long-term financial strategies. I have qualifications in both investments and financial planning providing the depth of knowledge needed to help high and ultra-high net worth individuals achieve their objectives with confidence.

Outside of work, I am married with three daughters - so weekends are often spent running an unofficial taxi service!

Joshua Pape

Kasia Saunders

Kate West

I started my career in financial planning in 1998 and joined EQ Investors (EQ) in 2005. During my time in the industry, I’ve gained a wealth of experience and technical knowledge. I’m experienced in all aspects of financial planning and a specialist in pensions and retirement planning.  

I know the importance of giving clear financial planning advice and adapting to changes in circumstances, goals, legislation, and investment markets. Every client is unique, and it takes empathy, clear communication, and long-term commitment to build trust. I provide personal service and enjoy collaborating with clients to fully understand their values and financial goals and create a clear plan to achieve them.  

I hold the following qualifications and accreditation's: 

• Chartered Fellow (Financial Planning) of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment.  
• Chartered Financial Planner of the Personal Finance Society.
• Fellow of the Association of Taxation Technicians.
• UK Associate member of the Chartered Institute of Tax Taxation. 

I’ve worked in a range of organisations, from a ‘big four’ accountancy firm, to corporate advisory, and financial planning and wealth management. As my career has progressed, I much prefer working in a smaller business where it’s possible to adapt and change.  

I enjoy working at EQ. We have a strong financial planning team and are supported by excellent technical and administrative colleagues, all working together for the benefit of our clients.  

As Head of Advice, my role is split between advising a wide range of clients and supporting the financial planning business to deliver an excellent service.  

Outside of work, I live in South Croydon and I’m adapting to ‘empty nest’ syndrome now our daughter is studying at the University of Leeds. I’m a member of a local ladies walking group and enjoy being outdoors. I also love music of all shapes and forms; I sing with the Croydon Philharmonic choir and enjoy live music, 

I’ve volunteered for the Association of Taxation Technicians (ATT) for 20+ years. During this time, I’ve been a member of various steering groups, chair, charitable trustee, and honorary treasurer. I currently sit on the Financial Steering Group and represent ATT in technical pension discussions with HMRC and HM Treasury and I’m a member of HMRC’s Pensions Industry Stakeholder forum. I was editor of the Claritax Pensions Tax Guide from 2021 to 2025.

Katharine Lindley

Kevin Donnarumma

Louisiana joined EQ in October 2018 after completing a masters in sustainable business at Imperial College London.

She is now responsible for innovating EQ’s approach to sustainable investing. Louisiana oversees EQ’s ESG and impact integration strategy across all assets, EQ’s stewardship efforts and sustainability data reporting.

Previously, Louisiana graduated from UCL with a BSc in Geography and spent a year working for a Cleantech innovation research company before starting her masters. She now also holds the CFA IMC and CFA ESG Investing qualification.

Outside of her career, Louisiana loves travelling and discovering new places, cooking with friends and spending time outdoors.

Louisiana Salge

Mario Angeli

With over 25 years’ experience in financial services, Mark's expertise is widely based.

Mark has been married for over 30 years and has three children. He enjoys keeping fit in the gym and plays golf. When time permits he loves trekking and has climbed Kilimanjaro.

Mark Kenner

Mathuri Thambipillai

Matt Wiles

As Sales Director, I lead our DFM sales team and work closely with financial advisers across the UK to help them deliver sustainable investment solutions for their clients. I’ve spent over a decade working with financial advisers, nationals and networks, and asset managers, and I’m as passionate as ever about building long-term relationships that genuinely make a difference.

Matt Hardy

Matthew Buckingham

I’m a philanthropy and impact specialist focused on building data-driven tools and strategies that make charitable giving more transparent, equitable, and effective. My work centres on strengthening the systems and insights that help funders make evidence-based decisions and deliver meaningful impact.
 
I’ve designed due diligence, assessment, and reporting frameworks that streamline grant making and improve visibility into results. My analysis of charities across a range of causes has helped ensure philanthropic investments are aligned with high-impact, evidence-backed interventions that support underserved communities.
 
I’m passionate about using data to tell stories that inspire action. Through my work on GivingisGreat.org, I’ve helped spotlight effective, evidence-led charities and connect donors with organisations driving real change. I value building strong relationships with grantees, offering strategic advice and sharing insights that contribute to a more resilient, impact-oriented sector.

Matthew Gould

Having joined EQ in 2015, I’ve worked with a wide range of clients to help them feel confident and in control of their finances. I’m a Chartered Financial Planner and lead one of EQ’s Financial Planning teams. I hold Chartered status through the CII and also hold the Investment Management Certificate.

I specialise in inter-generational planning - helping families bring their goals together and build a clear understanding of their financial future. I’m a big believer in making sure people understand their finances and feel comfortable with how their money is invested.

I’ve been at EQ for over a decade now, and I wouldn’t still be here if I didn’t enjoy it. The culture has always been supportive, encouraging everyone to work hard, develop, and keep learning.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling and skiing, and I’ve completed a few marathons and the Wales Ironman. These days though, most of my time is happily spent with my wife, two young children and our slightly nervous Cavalier Spaniel.

Matt Lewis

Mike heads up the investment management team. After completing his BSc in Chemistry at the University of London in 1985, he started his career in the financial markets as a bond trader before attending the Cranfield School of Management to complete an MBA in 1996. Mike joined Bestinvest in 1997 and helped launch the private client discretionary investment team in 2003. The service proved to be a success with clients, and the team went on to win both performance and client service awards.

Mike joined EQ Investors in March 2016 with a mandate to protect the core values of providing clients with the very best possible service &amp; investment performance. He is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Securities &amp; Investments.

Outside of the office, Mike enjoys sport and martial arts and is a keen amateur pilot. In 2008, he participated in the Round Britain Powerboat race and still enjoys occasional outings in competitive motorsport.

Mike Neumann

Mike Sharp

Peter has over a decade of experience in Financial Services including five years as a financial adviser. Peter offers a holistic financial planning service, specialising in saving and retirement planning, estate planning, and tax efficient planning.

Peter's primary goal is to simplify the often complex world of finance. With a knack for making potentially complex financial concepts easy to grasp, Peter is committed to guiding clients towards secure and prosperous financial futures.

Beyond his professional life, Peter is a motorsport enthusiast and a competitive cyclist.

Peter Hargreaves

Paul is a chartered accountant with a maths degree from Durham University and acts as the Financial Director of EQ. He has held a similar position in a number of regulated financial services companies, including Bestinvest and SharePeople Group and also holds several non-executive directorships.

Outside of work Paul is a passionate sailor and has been the Commodore of his local club in recent years.

Paul Trueman

I joined EQ Investors in 2023, bringing with me over seven years of experience in Financial Services. I hold the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning, as well as certificates in Discretionary Investment Management, Mortgage Advice, Equity Release, and Long-term Care.

I believe financial planning works best as a collaborative process, ensuring my clients fully understand the strategies in place and feel confident in their decisions. Building clear, trusting relationships and guiding clients through tailored plans is at the heart of my approach.

Outside of work, I’m a keen runner and football fan, and I follow Chelsea FC.

Raphael Macharia

Ryan Hamilton

Sherina Moorjani

Simon started his career in the Royal Navy after graduating from Oxford. He then moved into the City to follow a career in financial services where he has qualified as a senior investment manager.

Simon is an expert in pensions and investment and has continued to work with the same clients for more than twenty five years – a testament to the level of service he has provided.

Simon loves the sea and has a Salcombe Yawl which he sails in the Devon estuaries. He also is involved as an actor and technically with the acclaimed Wintershall Passion plays held in London, Surrey, and Gloucestershire. He likes reading and walking in the Surrey hills – not simultaneously!

Simon Callaghan

Simon Noakes

As a financial planner, I help client to achieve their long-term goals by putting a financial plan in place and provide solutions for business owners, self-employed, families and retirees.

I advise on a range of financial planning needs and products including pensions, investments, protection, cashflow planning and inheritance tax.

My approach to planning involves listening to your needs and objectives and presenting a financial plan which is regularly reviewed to take account of changing circumstances to ensure the solution remains on track.

I am a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments and also hold advanced financial planning and pensions advice qualifications.

EQ are a forward-thinking company that have a real drive to make a genuine difference both to the environment and the lives of our clients.

Working with like-minded people who are passionate about what they do creates a real sense of achievement.

When not at work I like to keep fit running and cycling and enjoy travelling to new places.

Simon Starkey

Olusoji Olufunwa

Sophie Kennedy is the Joint Chief Executive Officer of EQ Investors (EQ). As Joint CEO, Sophie oversees EQ’s investment management operations, including its discretionary fund management business. Sophie joined EQ in 2015, excited by the alignment of values with the founding B-Corporation &amp; leader in sustainable investing. Having joined as an Investment Analyst, initially specialising in fund research and top-down asset allocation, she transitioned into a Head of Research role before taking over management of the broader Investment Management business. 

A mother of two young children, Sophie understands the importance of balancing home and City life. Despite her schedule, she is committed to supporting talented people to succeed at all levels, regardless of their background. As a diversity champion, Sophie is responsible for creating a diverse and inclusive culture within EQ and is also Co-Head of the Next Generation Stewardship Hub within the Women in Banking and Finance organisation. Sophie holds a MSc in Finance and Economics from the University of London and is a CFA Charterholder.

Sophie Kennedy

Hello, my name is Stefan! I am a Graphic Designer with a decade of experience, ranging from course-driven education, and self-taught design techniques.

I joined EQ Investors in 2019 following participation in the Spear Programme course and have found myself ethically aligned and proud of the work that is done here. I observe and consider industry trends, developing my own design skills with new concepts and visuals brought to each project I work on. 

Most importantly, I enjoy the collaborative process here that enables me to design to the needs of those I work with. It’s rewarding!

Outside of work, I enjoy a good comic book, videogame, or movie. All the nerdy stuff.

Stefan Martyn

Steve has spent most of his career in the wealth management profession, dealing mainly with private clients. During that time he has overseen investment policies from inception to maturity for many longstanding clients.

He enjoys all aspects of financial planning from retirement planning to tax mitigation and estate planning.

A devoted cyclist and walker, Steve’s journeys have taken him to far flung places such as New Zealand and Watford!

Steve Hollis

Tertius joined EQ in 2016 and is the co-portfolio manager for the EQ Positive Impact, EQ Climate Action, and EQ Future Leaders portfolios. In addition, he is also responsible for covering global and thematic equity investment ideas. Tertius sits on the Fund Selection Committee, the Strategic Asset Allocation Committee, and is a member of EQ's Net Zero Working Group.

Tertius is a CFA charterholder and holds the CFA Investment Management Certificate. He is a regular member of the CFA Institute and CFA UK Society. He graduated with a First in Business with Finance at the University of Greenwich.

Tertius Bonnin

Toby’s route to financial services was by no means traditional. After completing his Economics Degree at Loughborough University, he embarked on a professional rugby career spanning 2 years in both England and Italy. In 2007, he joined a large advisory firm based in the City; where he qualified and went on to mentor a team of 6 advisers. He joined EQ in early 2014.

His financial expertise is widely based and he practices as a general consultant advising clients on all areas of their financial planning. He also works closely with lawyers and accountants providing financial planning advice to their clients.

Toby is a family man with three young sons who keep him busy. He loves sailing and keeping fit when he can.

Toby Walker

I work with clients to help bring clarity to their finances, so every decision they make is one they're confident of. 

That might mean retiring earlier than expected, creating long-term financial security, or simply having clarity over what's possible, and when. 

Most people I work with aren't just looking for investment advice. They're looking for structure, clarity, and a plan they can actually trust. 

I typically work with professionals and business owners in their 40s, 50s &amp; 60s who have built wealth, but want to make sure it's working as hard as they are. 

I help people: 
•	Strengthen their overall financial foundation 
•	Grow and protect their wealth
•	Turn complexity into clear, actionable decisions 

How I help: 

•	Retirement Planning 
Helping you understand what financial independence looks like for you, and how to get there in a tax-efficient, sustainable way. 

•	Cash Flow Modelling
Building a clear visual picture of your financial future, so you can see exactly how decisions today shape the life you'll live tomorrow. 

•	Pension &amp; Investment Analysis 
Reviewing, simplifying, and optimising your existing arrangements so everything aligns with your goals and risk profile. 

•	Income Planning 
Designing tax-efficient strategies to support your lifestyle, through your working years and well into retirement. 

•	Providing Clarity 
Helping you understand what you own, why you own it, and whether it still fits where you're headed. 

If you value clarity, structure, and long-term thinking over short-term noise, we're probably a good fit.

Tom Laarberg

Tom Voorsluijs

I started my investment management career in 2016 and joined EQ Investors (EQ) in 2025. I am experienced in managing multi-asset portfolios for high-net-worth individuals, families, charities, and trusts, particularly for long-term global equity and socially responsible investment mandates. Prior to joining EQ, I was an Assistant Director at RBC Brewin Dolphin.

As I progressed through my career, I wanted to be part of a smaller firm where there is scope to be genuinely dynamic and collaborate with a team who are passionate about their work. In this rapidly changing world, I know the importance of adaptability, empathy, and delivering the best service for clients. These values are closely aligned to all parts of the EQ business, and it is a pleasure to work for such a dedicated company.

I am a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment, hold the Chartered Wealth Manager diploma, and have passed CFA level 2. In 2015 I graduated from the University of Oxford with a degree in History. 

Outside of work, I live in North London and am a keen cook and gardener. I also love football, music, swimming, and travelling.

Tom Wait

William Fay

I’m an Administrator at EQ Investors and joined in 2025. My role involves supporting the planning team with smooth and efficient day-to-day client service. 

I bring over three years of administrative experience from other financial advice firms, alongside more than a decade of prior experience in the investment management industry. 

My operational background helps ensure a high standard of accuracy and support for both colleagues and clients.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling with my family and friends, cooking and playing the piano.

Yvonne Chan

Zoe Frisenda

I Joined EQ Investors in 2019 and since then, my passion and love for financial planning have only grown. 

With over 20 years in financial services, I enjoy problem solving and find it incredibly rewarding to find the best solution for a client. It’s a privilege to play a part in a client’s journey to success and I take a great pride in seeing their lives blossom.

The technical nature of financial planning has always been alluring to me. From investing to retirement planning, I am regularly diving into the technical side of my client’s situation to find an answer for their question or issue.

In my spare time I enjoy volunteering with several charities, working on her community gardens, travelling, socialising with friends, and spoiling the love of my life – my dog, Luna.

Zoe Brett

I’ve spent the past seven years in financial planning, helping individuals, families and business owners make informed, long-term financial decisions with clarity and confidence. My approach is straightforward and calm, with a focus on cutting through complexity so clients can concentrate on what matters most to them.

What drives me is seeing clients reach a point where their financial situation feels organised, understood and under control. That sense of clarity - and the confidence that comes with it - is central to the work I do.

Outside of work, I’m committed to staying active and enjoy endurance training. I also spend as much time as I can travelling with my wife and exploring new cultures. More recently, I bought a motorbike - an enthusiasm I’m still deciding is either a genuine new interest or the early warning signs of a mid-life crisis turning up slightly ahead of schedule. At home, our British Longhair cat, Cleo, ensures life remains suitably grounded; she operates with the quiet certainty that she runs the household.

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Protection insurance: your options explained 3 min read