'I had retired, but it ended up being a gap year' - Chris Jelf on the launch of advice firm Integrity365

Launched this year

Sophie King
clock • 2 min read

Having been in the industry for 40 years and heading up his own business for 30, you might think Chris Jelf would be taking it easy in retirement. But no, he had other idea and here, he talks to Professional Adviser on launching a new advice firm.

Jelf Insurance and Financial Services founder Chris Jelf (pictured) had planned to retire at 60 and, like many, have a well-earned rest after four decades in the sector. However, he only managed a year in retirement before the phones started ringing from people asking him to come back to work. "I had retired, but it ended up as a gap year taken rather late in life." Jelf had made a name for himself as someone who put his clients first, a people person who engages well with his customers through face-to-face contact. "My phone was ringing last year with friends and clients who were feelin...

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

In Accord launches advice firm client investment 'badge' initiative

In Accord launches advice firm client investment 'badge' initiative

To demonstrate commitment to understanding client needs

Laura Purkess
clock 17 February 2026 • 2 min read
Feel Good Friday: Quilter pledges £3m towards financial education

Feel Good Friday: Quilter pledges £3m towards financial education

Alongside £1m in grants supporting charities

Professional Adviser
clock 13 February 2026 • 1 min read
Brits unlikely to see IFAs despite Budget impact

Brits unlikely to see IFAs despite Budget impact

Just 19% were likely to seek advice, Continuum finds

Isabel Baxter
clock 12 February 2026 • 3 min read