In an industry often perceived as complex and sometimes impersonal, a local independent financial firm has built its reputation on something refreshingly simple, but vital - people.

Founded in 2004 by Rob Simpson, Simpson Financial Services (SFS) has grown from a small team into a thriving, 17-strong business.

"I set up Simpson Financial Services in 2003," Rob Simpson explained.

"And, it's been a wonderful journey ever since."

Rob's path into the financial sector was not a straightforward one. While a natural affinity for numbers and entrepreneurship ran in the family, his early career was firmly rooted behind the scenes.

He explained: "My first roles were as far away from the public as possible.

"But whenever I had the chance to speak to clients, I really enjoyed it. That's when I realised, this is what I want to do."

That desire to work directly with clients remains at the heart of the firm today.

Rob and Adele receiving the 'Apprentice Employer of the Year' award (image supplied)

Making finance accessible

One of the firm's defining principles is accessibility. In a sector often clouded by jargon, Simpson Financial Services aims to simplify.

"There's a shortage of financial advisors in the UK, and many people don't even consider seeking advice," said Rob.

"We try to demystify things, put everything into plain English. Anyone can benefit from financial advice; it's just about finding the right questions to ask."

This emphasis on clarity and approachability is paired with a deeply personal service model. Clients often interact with multiple team members over time, building trust and familiarity, but they are also matched up to an advisor best suited to their individual financial needs.

Victoria Tolley won the Chartered Insurance Institute's Young Achiever of the Year Award in 2025 (images supplied)

Growing talent from within

Another major part of the firm's success story lies in its investment in people, particularly through its award-winning apprenticeship programme.

Adele Stephen, who joined the company in 2013 as its very first apprentice, is now leading that initiative.

"I always believed in apprenticeships," Adele said.

"University wasn't the right path for me, but I loved business and wanted to learn on the job."

Over the years, Adele has helped shape a programme that has brought in new talent, many with no prior experience in financial services, and supported them through to professional qualifications and career progression.

"Seeing people join at entry level and grow into highly skilled professionals is something I'm incredibly proud of," she expressed.

The programme's success has not gone unnoticed. The firm has received national recognition, including Employer Apprentice of the Year and individual awards across multiple roles.

Most recently, the firm was named 'Best Bespoke Financial Planning and Wealth Advisory in Warwickshire 2026' at the BFSI Insider Awards.

Women in finance

Simpson Financial Services is also helping to reshape perceptions, breaking what has long been seen as a male-dominated industry.

The firm boasts a strong female presence across all levels, including leadership and has a female heavy board.

"It's important for clients to see themselves reflected in the people advising them."

This diversity, combined with a mix of ages and experience levels, allows the firm to connect with a wide range of clients.

"There's always the right advisor for the right person," Rob expressed. "It's about finding that perfect match."

Services that evolve with clients

While the firm's roots lie in pensions and retirement planning, its services have expanded organically in response to client needs.

Rob shared: "We started with a focus on retirement.

"But clients' lives are complex. They have families, mortgages, inheritances, so we've grown to support them through every stage."

Today, the firm offers a comprehensive range of services, including, but not reduced to:

• Investment and pension planning
• Financial planning during divorce
• Mortgage capacity assessments
• Trustee accounts
• Wealth and pension planning
• Retirement planning
• Tax
• Business financial planning

Supporting clients through life's challenges

Financial decisions can be tied to major life events, some of them difficult. This is where personable financial advice is extremely valuable - something the SFS team understands and acknowledges.

"We often meet people at vulnerable moments. Whether it's divorce, inheritance, or becoming a trustee, it can be overwhelming" Rob highlighted.

Adele added: "This is where the firm's culture plays a crucial role. That personal, supportive environment we have internally carries through to our clients. It really does make a huge difference."

Rooted in the community: charity efforts

Beyond its client work, Simpson Financial Services is deeply embedded in the local community.

The firm regularly supports local charities and has committed to quarterly fundraising initiatives.

Recent efforts included completing the Spring 10K Wolf Run, where the team raised over £2,000 for Leamington-based charity The Esther Project. This amount was then matched by the firm, taking the total donations to over £4,000.

Team members also regularly support Helping Hand's soup kitchen through the 'soup kitchen takeover' initiative.

Other charity efforts include SFS's annual bowls charity event, and its participation in the Warwick Dragon Boat Race.

Speaking on the impact of the firm's various charity efforts, Adele shared: "They are actually rewarding in terms of both giving back to the community, but also for team building as well. We've benefited from doing the charity events alongside helping people across Leamington and in the local community.

"It is nice to see the team bonding and all coming together, especially now, with hybrid working as well with some staff, it's good to see the team doing that team building, seeing what strengths they have and how they work together - it is really nice to see."

The firm also supports local organisations and encourages clients to share any fundraising efforts and causes which they too are pursuing, to help "support them in their endeavours to raise money for charities close to their hearts."

Looking ahead

With continued growth comes new opportunities. The firm has recently secured a larger space to accommodate its expanding team and client base.

Rob shared: "We've outgrown our current space.

"The move will allow us to keep growing and meet increasing demand."

Get in touch

Despite its growing success, Simpson Financial Services remains grounded in its simple mission as an independent firm: making financial advice approachable and personal.

"If you've ever thought about getting financial advice, just come and have a chat," Rob said.

"There's no obligation, it's just a conversation."

In an industry often defined by complexity, this simple approach is exactly what is setting SFS apart.

'To learn more about Simpson Financial Services Ltd and enquire about its services, call 0800 6342 111 or email [email protected].

Simpson Financial Services is a sponsor of Nub News.

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