North-west financial planning firm, Clarion Wealth Planning, is transitioning to management ownership following a deal with its longstanding owner.
Clarion Wealth Planning founder, Ron Walker, has sold 60 per cent of his shareholding in the Alderley Edge-based practice to his management team, led by John Winstanley, 39 years after establishing the firm.
Now, the management team will acquire a majority stake in Clarion, while Walker will remain i the firm for at least five more years.
Similarly, chair Keith Thompson will also remain for the foreseeable future.
Walker said: “My goal was to build a financial planning firm that was commercially successful but compassionate and holistic, and I believe that with the help of my fantastic team, that goal has been achieved.
“Many of our clients have worked with us across multiple decades and multiple generations, and we’re honoured to have been trusted by so many for so long.
“Going forward, Clarion will remain in the hands of those who have played an integral role in growing and nurturing the business into what it is today.
“So, clients can trust that our commitment to excellence and care will continue and that their relationship with Clarion and their financial planner will endure.”
Since its inception, Clarion has been family-owned, with Walker and other members of his family owning shares.
But the move to management ownership ensures the business will remain independently managed and will not be absorbed by a consolidator.
The purchasing management team consists of three directors: John Winstanley, Adam Wareing, and Matt Sherratt with a fourth director, Alistair Cartwright, set to join the board soon.
Winstanley added: “Our commitment to delivering the highest level of service remains unchanged, and Walker will continue to work with Clarion over the next five years to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.
“Beyond that period, our ethos, values, and commitment to the ‘Clarion Way’ will remain unwavering.”
tom.dunstan@ft.com
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