About Rowena Griffiths
I have over 20 years experience in Financial Services, as an Adviser and in management. I advise mainly on pensions and investments and a typical client would be someone planning for retirement or in retirement. I also help clients manage their investments, protect their families and mitigate against inheritance tax. I help people understand the complexities of financial products. I am a Holistic Financial Planner, which involves first identifying a client’s financial goals and writing a plan based on their aims and to address any shortfalls.
Although I don’t exclusively advise women, I do receive a lot of enquiries on divorce. Also, Ethical investments are becoming more and more popular.
I started advising clients in 1991 when I was working for a major high street bank. However, my first introduction to Holistic Financial Planning was in 1994 when I joined a small division of Prudential called Private Financial Planning Services. I was able to study hard and gained my Advanced Financial Planning certificate, now known as ‘Diploma Status.’ This was one of the most enjoyable jobs I have held, as Prudential has a strong brand and some excellent products. The main offering, however, was a Financial Planning Service which reflected the clients’ goals and needs, rather than a recommendation of products to invest in.
In 2001 I was made redundant and decided to take a year off to travel the world. On my return, I was able to realise a longstanding ambition and become an Independent Financial Adviser. I joined a company called Sedgewicks, but left when they were taken over by Barclays Bank and lost their Independent Status. I have been with my present company for the last 8 years, offering the same independent advice, although the name above the door has changed a few times over the years!
I have been told by my clients that I add the most value by making complex and possibly daunting financial products understandable. I offer an initial meeting without cost or obligation.