Barker is one of the standout figures at Charles Stanley. Melding old-school charm with a lively understanding of how the industry needs to evolve, he has played a key role in modernising the 225-year-old firm. Instead of copying the competition by embracing a model whereby salesforces feed asset management hubs, the £24 billion behemoth now provides a holistic offering with the discretionary fund management component delivered through the traditional empowered investment manager model.
‘In other words,’ says the 33 year old Programme Director, ‘we entrust our front-line advisers to make investment decisions, service existing clients and attract new business. Thereby, we differentiate ourselves as a service provider in an increasingly product-driven market.’
It can be little surprise then that HNWs are responding, exemplified by top quartile client satisfaction scores and surging revenues. ‘The last part is critical,’ adds Barker. ‘It creates a virtuous cycle whereby we can invest in systems and staff for the benefit of clients; as proof, our investment returns in ARC’s balanced category are top quartile since inception.’
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