Big Interview: Richard Howells, Zurich UK Life

Consumers, so says Zurich’s IFA guy, do not realise what “proper” financial advice can do for them. “They do not understand the problem,” he says, “so they will not understand the solution – financial advice.” But for Richard Howells, intermediary sales director at Zurich UK Life, the answer is simple. “Financial education is not enough. We need to incentivise – maybe a tax break or something – and, if necessary, coerce. It should be seen as socially unacceptable for people not to take charge of their financial affairs. Then, and only then, will people value advice.” On the road ...