Neil Liversidge: Why I'll never join a network

Letter from the frontline

clock • 4 min read

Earlier this week, regular PA columnist Tim Sargisson revisited the argument that small advisers should have to join a network - prompting this typically robust response from Neil Liversidge

This time last year, LEBC chairman and CEO Jack McVitie suggested on Professional Adviser that all small IFA firms be forced to join networks while, earlier this week, Sandringham managing director Tim Sargisson endorsed that view. Both should mind their own respective businesses and not try to force independents into indentured servitude. Whatever fancy titles Jack and Tim enjoy, at the end of the day they are employees and they speak from that perspective. I'm not an employee, I own my business. I set it up so I could be my own boss and offer a truly independent service, untainted by t...

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

The banks are back: What does this mean for advisers?

The banks are back: What does this mean for advisers?

Banks ‘uniquely positioned’ to provide advice to mass market

Sophia Panayi
clock 24 August 2026 • 6 min read
Social media investment advice leaves investors out of pocket - research

Social media investment advice leaves investors out of pocket - research

Over half who acted on social media financial advice regretted it

Isabel Baxter
clock 21 August 2026 • 3 min read
New sexual harassment duty: Can adviser firms show they've taken 'all reasonable steps'?

New sexual harassment duty: Can adviser firms show they've taken 'all reasonable steps'?

'Employers will be expected to take all reasonable steps'

Emily Bradshaw
clock 19 August 2026 • 4 min read