Sargeant to adviser: Ian Cook on finding a career fit that feels tailor-made

‘I experienced evacuation from Belize due to an impending hurricane’

Jenna Brown
clock • 4 min read

Jenna Brown talks to former military man Quilter Chartered financial planner Ian Cook about his career journey from the rank of sergeant in the Army, where among other things he co-piloted Lynx anti-tank helicopters, to financial advice which he says is just as unpredictable as his former career…

Leaving the Army was not an easy decision for Ian Cook but it eventually led him to a successful career in financial advice lasting more than two decades and counting. And, he tells PA, his second career is just as varied as the first and for his clients his military background brings credibility and trustworthiness. Cook, a Chartered financial planner in Quilter Private Client Advisers London office, had some thrilling experiences during his 12-year tenure in armed forces. He joined up after finishing school to continue his education. He studied aeronautical engineering at the Arm...

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

Andrew Goodwin: It's time for advisers to think differently about innovation

Andrew Goodwin: It's time for advisers to think differently about innovation

'Ours is still a profession that rightly places enormous emphasis on the human touch, relationships and trust'

Andrew Goodwin
clock 04 July 2025 • 4 min read
Altus' Holford urges advisers to reframe concept of advice gap

Altus' Holford urges advisers to reframe concept of advice gap

Traditional models of value, service and delivery are being challenged

Sahar Nazir
clock 04 July 2025 • 2 min read
PA Asks: Do you keep in touch with clients when on holiday?

PA Asks: Do you keep in touch with clients when on holiday?

Plus, targeted support worries and BDMs

Professional Adviser
clock 04 July 2025 • 1 min read