Get to know Matt Henry – financial planner at Lowes Financial Management.
I wanted to work in financial planning because…
I’ve always enjoyed working with numbers and after gaining a first-class degree in Finance and Investment Management, a career in finance was an obvious step. After joining Lowes in 2018 and spending five years as a paraplanner alongside two wealth managers, I gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in all aspects of financial planning.
It was my passion for people that made becoming a financial planner attractive to me, as it offers the opportunity to build long lasting relationships with clients, while working with figures and producing solid financial plans – the best of both worlds in my eyes!
Having the technical ability to be a financial planner is one thing, but conveying that knowledge to clients in order to help empower them to make the very best decisions about their finances is massively important – and one of the most rewarding aspects of my role.
What you might not know about me is…
I’m a massive Middlesborough F.C. fan, which in recent years has probably provided more disappointment than joy – it’s the hope that kills you!
One of the most rewarding experiences in my career so far has been…
Working on an Immediate Needs Annuity for a client, who had recently gone into care. Effectively, the client exchanged a lump sum for a guaranteed monthly income for the rest of his life, which in this case ensured all of his care costs can be covered indefinitely. This provided huge peace of mind for both the individual and his family members, particularly at a time that can be extremely stressful for all parties.
It’s those moments, where you have made a real difference to the outcome of people’s lives, that are incredibly rewarding.
If I could give my younger self one piece of financial advice, it would be…
To fix my mortgage rate for ten years instead of five – but wouldn’t we all!
In all seriousness though, I would tell my younger self to be more disciplined towards regular saving and investing, be it in a tax efficient ISA or a pension wrapper. I see it time and time again with clients – the substantial benefits that starting your investment journey early has on later life.
It also teaches you the importance of budgeting and ensures that you have access to a rainy day fund. Afterall, we don’t know what’s around the corner.
When I’m not organising financial plans for my clients, I’m…
On the golf course! Anyone who knows me will tell you how much I love golf. Any spare time, that’s where you will find me.
If you’d like to start your journey to a more prosperous financial future, please visit www.lowes.co.uk to book your free no obligation consultation. Lowes Financial Management is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
