After graduating with a degree in quantity surveying and joining a large construction company, Martin admits that at that time in his life he did not realise careers existed in the financial services industry!
After serving out 2 years in construction, as a quantity surveyor and then in the marketing department, he took his Financial Planning exam (just for fun); and in 1997 moved to The Prudential as a Financial Adviser – becoming ‘the man from the Pru’. This was the beginning of Martin’s career in financial services.
After 2 years with The Pru, he joined a smaller financial services company as an associate, before being made a partner. Developing his own vision for the future, Martin took the decision in 2001 to set up Platinum IFS and to work towards achieving his own goals.
Nineteen years on, Martin is a very successful and highly respected Financial Adviser; and the owner/director of Platinum IFS.
Martin has a clarity of thinking with respect to finance. Where clients cannot see ‘the wood for the trees’, Martin can empathise with them, while more importantly, see what to do, when to do it and how to do it. With his financial decision making based on fact, not emotions.
This gives clients a reassurance that Platinum will look after them and advise of the right course of action to deliver their financial security.
The success of Platinum, who are a relatively small team, is evidenced by the amount of money they handle in terms of managed funds. They are professional, friendly, offering everything in simple terms – which delivers reassurance to clients. And with Martin always on hand when needed.
Outside of the financial world, Martin is an avid (if not obsessive) reader. He enjoys his family, eating out, socialising and holidays; as well as keeping the garden neat and tidy. On the sporting front he is an ex rugby coach at Bowdon RUFC and still enjoys his connection with the club.
After graduating in 1994 Jennifer secured a position with Standard Life, initially working in the administration team and soon moving to the sales team where she took her Financial Planning exams and was responsible for selling Standard Life financial products and/services to Financial Advisers to sell on to their clients.
During this time she and Martin married; and in 2005 she left to become a Director at Platinum IFS.
In this role she has seen Platinum evolve into a very successful Financial Services provider, with an ever expanding client base. Many are long-standing clients who have been with Platinum for many years. Jen says that her job satisfaction comes from giving client’s confidence; and making them feel at ease and welcomed into an industry which is normally associated with stiffness, jargon and a corporate outlook.
It’s making that difference, doing a good job and getting back to people when you say you will, that give her a buzz.
In the office, Jen is responsible for general staff management, marketing, and business development. She says that Platinum are a small team of professionals, working in a relaxed environment; and who readily take on the ever-changing legislation in the financial services industry. Their knowledge and professionalism is appreciated by their clients. This gives the whole team job satisfaction.
She is also responsible for ensuring Platinum are compliant with FCA legislation and meet all regulatory requirements. Jen says that seeing how Platinum has evolved, from its small beginnings to the recognition they have today, gives tremendous satisfaction.
For relaxation, Jen enjoys her family, including 3 children; their large garden (and giving Martin a list of what jobs to do); eating out, socialising and holidays. To keep fit she attends regular yoga classes and personal training sessions.
Jon has been interested in money, shares, and currencies since his teens, so it is not surprising that he pursued a career in finance. His financial services background spans nearly 37 years, having worked for the Midland Bank and insurance companies such as Standard Life and Friends Provident.
Jon was introduced to Martin and joined Platinum in 2010; bringing with him a wealth of invaluable knowledge and experience, heavily focused on the investment market and wealth management.
Jon likes talking to people and always has his clients at heart. He likes his clients to be happy; and gains immense satisfaction when he is able to deliver a financial strategy which achieves the impossible in the eyes if his client. For example, retirement earlier than expected.
His aim is to give his clients peace of mind – in an area where most see a ‘foggy haze’, saying ‘My clients buy peace of mind off me’.
As to what makes Platinum different, Jon says ‘Flexibility, trust and working together. We know what we want to do (for our clients) and what we are targeting to ensure their long-term financial security’.
Totally content with life, outside of work Jon enjoys cycling, playing cricket and travelling with his wife.
Eeshan always wanted a career in finance, but realised at an early age that he was not suited to sitting behind a desk all day! Having obtained a BSc in Business Management & Finance he moved on to obtain his MSc in International Business Management and during this time he volunteered his services to gain experience in the financial sector.
Over the years Eeshan has worked for a couple of local financial adviser practices as an administrator and paraplanner, gaining further financial qualifications along with way. He is now a Financial Adviser and has a wealth of knowledge in pensions and savings.
When asked what makes Platinum different, he responds ‘The people. These guys are brilliant; a great team. When I walk into work there is always a smile on my face’.
As well as his financial knowledge, Eeshan speaks several languages, including Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi. When not in the office, he can be found playing cricket or on the squash court and has recently taken up cycling! He also relaxes by walking his dog Romeo and spending evenings out with his wife.
After leaving school Dave joined the Yorkshire bank and worked his way up from the office junior, leaving many years later to join a local company where he became an Independent Financial Adviser, undertaking a range of roles during his 18 years tenure.
Dave is very proud of his client base and client retention, having built strong client relationships over the years.
What makes Platinum different? ‘The people. Everyone has the client at heart. We all get on with each other and are all totally professional in what we do; yet at the same time we have fun, often taking Friday lunches together and enjoying evenings out’.
Outside of work Dave is passionate about sport. He enjoys going to the gym and playing golf; coaches his sons local football team and is involved in Ashton on Mersey cricket club.
Relaxation for Dave also comes from his garden, holidaying in Spain and Wales, spending time with his family and walking his dog.
Nick chose to follow in his father’s footsteps when he started his financial career over 20 years ago in a corporate financial services company, before becoming a mortgage adviser at a local firm of insurance brokers.
Nick’s passion lies in helping people to achieve their biggest purchase – their home; and to pay off debts. Nick always strives to get the best deals for his clients, whilst giving them choice; and is a bit like a dog with a bone during negotiations with providers!
As to what makes Platinum different…‘it is a family run business where you are a person rather than a number. No two days are the same, so it never gets boring. The atmosphere is nice and relaxed; we have a banter, but get the work done. Platinum are a good group people, who help each other. We all want to help our clients and you know you are achieving that when clients recommend you to others’.
For relaxation Nick enjoys watching football, travelling and spending time with his wife and 4 year old son.
After leaving school and studying Business & Finance at South Manchester College, Catherine joined Barclays Bank, working in branches in the local area.
After starting a family, Catherine joined Platinum in 2005 – which then comprised Martin plus two others – and was working out of a converted garage in Martin’s house! As the business grew, Platinum moved into their present premises and Catherine has continued working with the company on a part-time basis.
Catherine loves problem solving and will follow up queries and discrepancies; and chase providers when necessary. She is satisfied to have a clear desk at the end of the day! …as well as happy clients
At Platinum, Catherine says, all staff have the same aims and are in sync with each other, providing a high quality, accurate service, ensuring financial security for their clients. That, as well as the office banter and general buzz generated in the office makes Platinum different and is apparent as soon as clients walk through the door.
Outside of work Catherine loves cooking and entertaining…and walking her Beagle puppy Elsie!
Administrator
Michelle began her career as a secretary, working in healthcare, construction, and as a personal secretary to the Director of an independent estate agent. Having also worked for a local IFA practice she has expanded her knowledge of financial services, joining Platinum in 2018.
Shelley enjoys speaking to clients on the phone and in person, and supporting the team of financial advisers in a varied role where she knows clients are in safe hands.
Talking about Platinum, she says… Platinum are completely different in the attitude they take towards clients, staff, the working environment, the office, everything! Staff well-being is clearly a high priority, together with client welfare and securing their financial future.
Outside of work she loves eating out, holidaying and going on plenty of walks with her puppy Pablo!
Administrator and Trainee Financial Adviser
Henry has always been interested in finance and after having a series of jobs including fitness instructor; events’ organiser and sales rep for Portland Wine; he knew that ultimately he wanted a career in financial services.
Having achieved a distinction in his Financial Services Administrator apprenticeship, Henry is now focused on increasing his knowledge by continuing to take more exams to gain his Level 4 qualifications.
Currently learning how the company operates, Henry loves speaking with clients and working with other members of the team to maintain Platinum’s reputation in helping clients to make smart decisions about their finances.
Henry says ‘It’s nice working in a family firm where you can see the positive impacts of what you are doing and achieving for your clients’.
Outside of work Henry enjoys keeping fit at the gym, the great outdoors and history.
Paraplanner
Simon joined Platinum at the beginning of 2020 and is now a key member of the team, ensuring all clients have a great customer experience at every stage.
He continually looks at ways to improve his knowledge by taking his exams, whilst working closely with the advisers to provide valuable support to them.
Simon says, ‘It is reassuring to know that companies like Platinum exist. Everyone works as a team; we help each other out and work hard, which results in great customer feedback!’
Outside of work, Simon enjoys long walks and exploring the scenery around Hyde where he now lives. He also enjoys trips away to Slovakia, shopping and cooking.
Paraplanner
Having studied International Finance and Investment at University in Sheffield and possessing a natural flair for helping people, becoming a Financial Adviser was always an ambition for Jordan.
After a few years in the industry working in insurance and living in Australia for a year, Jordan decided it was time to pursue his goal and achieved his level 4 qualifications in 2019. Jordan joined Platinum from St James’s Place, as he loved the idea of providing truly independent, unrestricted advice. He enjoys constantly learning about new ways he can help clients, and how he can offer the best advice possible.
As to what makes Platinum different, Jordan says ‘There is a common theme throughout everyone at Platinum, which is a collective drive towards doing the best we can for the client, ensuring they receive the best possible service.’
Outside of work Jordan plays for a local 11-a-side football team, enjoys going to the gym and socialising with friends.
Mortgage and Protection Adviser
Lisa spent 30 years of her career working at RBS in various roles from office junior to mortgage and protection adviser, until being made redundant in 2019. After a couple of years as a self-employed mortgage adviser she joined the team at Platinum in March 2021.
Lisa prides herself on providing a personal service to her clients by finding solutions to meet their changing mortgage and protection needs. She particularly enjoys looking after First Time Buyers and guiding them through the mortgage journey and house buying process. She works hard to find the best deal for each and every client, keeping the client at the forefront of everything she does.
Since joining Platinum, Lisa says she immediately felt welcomed into the team and enjoys coming to work. “The office has a real buzz and it is great to see everybody working together to get the best outcomes for their clients.”
In her spare time Lisa loves spending time with her husband and children. She has a lifelong passion for dancing which runs in her family and she has enjoyed performing in tap, ballet and jazz shows over the years. From time to time she can still be seen performing on stage, although she is not willing to share where or when!
Get in touch today to arrange your no obligation initial review meeting. There’s no charge!
Call 0161 718 8328 or email: info@platinumifs.co.uk