From IT to IFA: Is this man mad? Part 2

clock

Peter Lawrence spent 30 years in IT, but last year launched his own IFA firm. At a time when there is an apparent exodus of advisers, this is a move that goes against the grain.

Last month I talked about my decision to join the financial services profession, and how I took the step to start my own IFA practice, in spite of having less experience than I would like. So what has happened since?  The first thing was to decide how I was going to operate, whether through a network, for example. There are some good options around, so that was an obvious first port of call, but two things put me off. First, I could see that sooner or later I would not fit the standard model, perhaps on how I wanted to charge for my services or perhaps on something else. Second, the n...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Your profession

News editor's view: Why advisers should pay attention to student loans

News editor's view: Why advisers should pay attention to student loans

The news editor's Friday Night Takeaway from 12 June

Isabel Baxter
clock 12 June 2026 • 4 min read
Feel Good Friday: Finli Group raises money for dementia charities

Feel Good Friday: Finli Group raises money for dementia charities

Has raised £10,000 and hopes to generate an additional £10,000

Professional Adviser
clock 12 June 2026 • 1 min read
Education minister: Student loan repayment threshold freeze did not break the system

Education minister: Student loan repayment threshold freeze did not break the system

‘These are design choices we have inherited’

Sophia Panayi
clock 11 June 2026 • 3 min read