Old Mutual adviser school appoints head amid recruitment push

Can take 100 students a year

Carmen Reichman
clock • 2 min read

Old Mutual Wealth has appointed consultant Darren Smith to lead its adviser school as it prepares to actively seek new trainees.

Old Mutual Wealth bought the not for profit school from Sesame in February 2016 after the network decided to pull the plug on its wealth advice offering in the year before. The school supports students to obtain level 4 financial planning qualifications and also has a focus on helping students develop soft-skills and business skills. It plans to recruit trainees from outside the industry, including graduates and those seeking a career-change. It will also support firms to upskill existing staff, including mortgage advisers. The school hopes to attract those looking for a second car...

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 Companies

Hargreaves Lansdown eyes targeted support launch

Hargreaves Lansdown eyes targeted support launch

In coming months

Sophia Panayi
clock 04 August 2026 • 2 min read
Clifton Wealth Partnership acquires two South Wales IFAs

Clifton Wealth Partnership acquires two South Wales IFAs

Banyard Independent Advice Services and Wilcox Financial Planning add £68m AUM

Sophia Panayi
clock 03 August 2026 • 2 min read
Five Wealth appoints co-founder Steve Jordan as CEO

Five Wealth appoints co-founder Steve Jordan as CEO

Follows co-founder and chair Phill Dewhurt’s retirement

Sophia Panayi
clock 03 August 2026 • 2 min read