COVER Magazine

Client-Centric Financial Planning: Bruce Fleming's Perspective

Bruce Fleming, an experienced financial planner with nearly three decades of industry experience, discusses his journey from legal advisor to lifestyle financial planner. In this candid conversation, he highlights the importance of putting the client first, how legislative changes have shaped the industry, and the vital role trust plays in client relationships. Bruce's commitment to providing tailored financial solutions and fostering long-term partnerships with clients stands at the heart of his approach. For those entering the financial planning industry, his insights offer valuable lessons on building trust, navigating industry changes, and ensuring client-centric service. 

In Pursuit of Truth: Barry O'Mahony's Journey in Financial Planning

Barry O'Mahony, founder of Veritas Wealth Management, shares his journey from cold-calling in South Africa to becoming one of the country's top financial planners. In this interview, Barry opens up about the significance of Veritas, which means "truth" in Latin, and how his approach to lifestyle financial planning has transformed the lives of his clients. Winning Financial Planner of the Year was a game-changer, not just for his public image but in reinforcing trust with his existing clients. Barry also touches on the complex challenges facing financial planners today, including navigating uncertain markets and helping clients through major life transitions. 

How Trust and Transparency Define Financial Success

Lara Warburton, Director at Integral Wealth and Financial Planner of the Year, has spent over two decades shaping the financial planning profession. Initially starting in a different field, Lara’s career journey led her to Investec, where she discovered her passion for financial advice. Now, a Certified Financial Planner® (CFP), she values the trust her clients place in her, emphasising transparency, honesty, and client-centric advice. Lara believes financial planning is about helping clients navigate both the good and difficult times. Her key advice for aspiring planners? Know your limits, stay transparent, and always prioritise your clients' needs. 

Building a Legacy of Integrity

Debbie Netto, founder of Netto Invest, has transformed the financial planning industry with her holistic and client-centered approach. Beginning her career as a nurse, Debbie's passion for helping people shifted from healthcare to financial wellness, driven by a desire to guide clients through life’s pivotal moments. With over three decades of experience, she pioneered fee-based financial planning, moving away from commission-driven models. Debbie’s leadership has empowered her team to deliver consistent, needs-based advice to clients, combining technology with a deeply personal understanding of their financial challenges and goals. Integrity and education remain the foundation of her lasting impact. 

Building a Sustainable Financial Practice

Peter Hewett, founder of Hewett Wealth, reflects on over 30 years in the financial planning industry. Starting in fiduciary services before moving into asset management and finally building his own advisory firm, Hewett Wealth has grown significantly, with branches in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town. Peter emphasises the importance of client relationships, ongoing education, and the shift from commission-based to fee-based financial planning. He advocates for sustainable business practices, transparent fee structures, and integrating technology to navigate regulatory changes. His approach centers on delivering real value to clients through tailored, transparent advice, contributing to the industry's professionalisation. 

Bridging Expertise and Relationships

Ryan McCaughey, a financial advisor at Hewett Wealth and 2021 Financial Planner of the Year, combines over 14 years of investment experience with a passion for people. Based in Cape Town, Ryan’s approach focuses on educating clients through each step of the financial planning process. His background in portfolio management and equity analysis equips him with deep market insights, which he uses to create tailored financial plans. Ryan emphasises the role of technology in scaling advisory practices and highlights the importance of building long-lasting relationships with clients, ensuring that they receive personalised, transparent financial advice for a secure future. 

Client-Centered Financial Planning

Janet Hugo, founder of Sterling Wealth, approaches financial planning with empathy and personalised care. Inspired by her family’s experience with poor financial advice, Janet was driven to offer bespoke solutions that focus on understanding each client’s unique needs. With a deep commitment to client well-being, she often goes beyond financial strategies, encouraging her clients to enjoy their wealth. Janet fosters close relationships, carefully navigating personal and financial dynamics, from family disputes to estate planning. Her client-centered approach, combined with her belief in using technology to enhance advisory services, has helped her establish a trusted and successful financial planning practice. 

Building Sustainable Wealth

Craig Kiggen, Managing Director of Consolidated Wealth Group and past winner of the Financial Planner of the Year award, shares insights from his journey in financial planning and business leadership. Consolidated Wealth offers a comprehensive financial service that ensures clients' peace of mind and long-term security. Over the years, Craig's focus has expanded to mentoring junior planners and leading Consolidated through global growth and technological innovation. His philosophy emphasises balancing sustainable profits with fair client outcomes, fostering long-term relationships, and creating a collaborative environment that nurtures the next generation of financial planners. 

Ethics, Growth, and Client-Centered Service

Warren Ingram, co-founder of Galileo Capital and winner of the Financial Planner of the Year award, has dedicated his career to revolutionising financial advice by putting ethics and client-centered service at the forefront. Starting in 1996, Warren’s journey took him from corporate environments that prioritized profit over people to launching Galileo Capital, where he pioneered a fee-based, no-commission financial planning model. Through his leadership, Warren has helped countless clients achieve financial freedom by focusing on long-term strategies and building trust. He also advocates for professional certification and mentoring younger financial planners to ensure the continued growth of the profession. 

Bridging the Human and Technical Sides of Finance

In an engaging discussion with Tony, Rudolph Geldenhuys, Financial Planner of the Year 2024, shares his journey and insights into financial planning. At just 33, Rudolph emphasises the importance of balancing the technical and human sides of money management. His goal is to help clients align their financial decisions with their personal purpose. Rudolph also touches on overcoming personal insecurities, the value of community, and the vital role of technology and teamwork in supporting his passion for client interaction. His message to young financial planners? Find your "why" and connect deeply with clients to make lasting impacts.