From IT to IFA - is this man mad? Part V

Peter Lawrence spent 30 years in IT but last year launched his own IFA firm. In this month’s column, he explPeter Lawrence spent 30 years in IT but last year launched his own IFA firm. In this month’s column, he explains how he is improving his skill leve

clock

Peter Lawrence spent 30 years in IT but last year launched his own IFA firm. In this month's column, he explains how he is improving his skill levels.

I have come to a conclusion. Well, it’s more of a starting point than a conclusion, and it was triggered by my holiday reading while enjoying some early season sun in Devon. My reading included a book on Tracker Funds and ETFs, as well as an Introduction to Life Planning from George Kinder. Combine that sort of reading with my ongoing soaking up of periodicals (including this one, of course), regular provider seminars, technical updates, and, of course, the necessary Diploma exams, and I’m under no illusion that I have a lot to learn. And that is the conclusion really – that  I have a...

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 Investment

How quality investing behaves through the cycle

How quality investing behaves through the cycle

Resilience when it matters more

Joseph Stephens and Laura Neill
clock 14 September 2026 • 4 min read
Why portfolios need to evolve, not revolve when it comes to client outcomes

Why portfolios need to evolve, not revolve when it comes to client outcomes

'As market structures evolve, so must portfolio construction'

Ed Senior
clock 11 September 2026 • 4 min read
What does 'quality' investing actually mean?

What does 'quality' investing actually mean?

Why persistence is the real test

Joseph Stephens and Laura Neill
clock 11 September 2026 • 4 min read