Press Releases.
Positive Solutions Launches New Online Marketing System
Positive Solutions has launched a new online marketing system to enable Partners to access promotional support quickly and cost-effectively.Tue. December 1st, 2009
Positive Solutions has launched a new online marketing system to enable Partners to access promotional support quickly and cost-effectively.
Accessed via the Positive Solutions extranet, the online ordering system contains a suite of new promotional material, allowing Partners to select appropriate items online, personalise them, pay for them and have the items delivered direct from the supplier.
The content includes folders, leaflets, adverts, banners, posters, greetings cards and HTML e-mail templates (as well as stationery such as business cards and compliments slips).
Along with their appropriate contact details, Partners can include their specific advice areas and choose from a selection of client quotes and images to appear on their material. With a range of compliant, pre-approved text and templates to choose from, Partners do not need to seek Compliance approval for any items ordered via the system.
"This new online ordering system will assist Partners in their ongoing communications with existing clients and in promoting their services to new clients," said Keith Gilmour, Marketing Director of Positive Solutions.
"The new marketing material evokes a professional but approachable company. This reflects the way our Partners do business and gives clients considerable assurance they are dealing with a strong and trusted independent advisory practice.
"This new system provides Positive Solutions with an excellent platform from which to add more material to support Partners in communicating and promoting their advice services to clients in the coming months," concluded Gilmour.
Positive Solutions has covered the cost of building (and maintaining) the new online system and the design costs of the suite of new marketing material, with Partners paying only the printing and delivery costs of the items they use to promote their own practices.
Positive Solutions Partners Set To Engage Major Lenders At Mortgage Roadshows
Positive Solutions gathers the UK's leading mortgage lenders for a series of roadshowsMon. October 5th, 2009
Positive Solutions is gathering the UK's leading mortgage lenders together for a series of regional conferences in October to give Partners the opportunity to understand in detail the providers lending policies and service standards.
The events, which kick off today in Warrington, will be attended by representatives from Abbey, Alliance & Leicester, Cheltenham and Gloucester, Halifax, Royal Bank of Scotland Intermediary Partners, Nationwide, The Mortgage Works and Platform.
General insurance providers Uinsure and Paymentshield will also be in attendance, along with representatives from mortgage sourcing system provider Trigold.
Paul Rignall, mortgage manager at Positive Solutions, said he expected some tough questions would be asked of lenders about service standards and criteria changes.
"We are expecting a high turnout for the mortgage conferences which follow September's pension and investment events that attracted record attendance," he said.
"The fact that lenders are fronting up and willing to field questions, shows that they recognise our position as a leading market player and are keen to get their messages across and receive direct feedback.
"The roundtable format of these events provides an invaluable opportunity for Partners to engage with lenders. The mortgage market has faced significant difficulties in the last year and Positive Solutions is doing all it can to support partners who provide advice in this area."
The events will also give partners the opportunity to network, share ideas with other Partners and provide feedback to help Positive Solutions shape its mortgage proposition. In addition to lenders, members of Positive Solutions' senior management, marketing, compliance and IT support teams will be in attendance.
Positive Solutions will be running nine roadshows in a variety of locations through this month, starting in Cheshire then moving on to the West Midlands, London, Northern Ireland, Scotland, North Yorkshire, West Sussex, Southampton and Bristol.
Positive Solutions Extends Partner Choice With Launch of IFS School of Finance Diploma
Positive Solutions add access to the ifs School of Finance DiplomaFri. July 17th, 2009
As part of its continued commitment to supporting IFA Partners working towards achieving higher professional qualifications, Positive Solutions has added access to the ifs School of Finance Diploma for Financial Advisers through its innovative Learning Academy.
The move complements the existing access via the professional development portal to the Chartered Insurance Institute's Diploma in Financial Planning, underlining its determination to offer both choice and practical assistance to Partners striving to attain a QCA Level 4 qualification.
"Raising professional standards has become essential to advisers' future success with the Retail Distribution Review proposals, setting a clear deadline for meeting a higher benchmark," said Lee McGrath, head of the Learning Academy.
"Positive Solutions is committed to supporting all Partners by giving them financial support towards studying and a free choice to select the qualifications route they believe best meets their aspirations. We have had very strong take-up for the CII exams but expect the ifs School of Finance to generate significant interest from Partners who prefer its structure."
Partners have already registered for nearly 700 forthcoming CII exams and now can enroll on the October 2009 and January 2010 ifs School of Finance?s DipFA programme either by registering through the Learning Academy or by calling the dedicated ifs School of Finance customer services team.
They will receive access to a 'my ifslearning' section of the Learning Academy and information about the course, the study process, pre-course knowledge requirements, knowledge gap analysis and a range of subject planners, plus ongoing support through the year-long study programmes.
Anne Kiem, director of further education at the ifs School of Finance said: "We warmly welcome Positive Solution's support of the DipFA, and the help and assistance that it will provide to professionals wishing to work towards it.
"It is real recognition both of the importance of professional development in meeting the new standards put forward by the RDR, and the way that the innovative approach taken by the DipFA can help advisers meet these new requirements, and further develop their skills-base."
Positive Solutions Calls For FSA 'Hearts And Minds' Consumer Campaign To Smooth Path of RDR
The FSA need to carry out an effective education campaignMon. July 6th, 2009
Positive Solutions has called on the Financial Services Authority to commit to undertaking a nationwide 'hearts and minds' awareness campaign outlining how consumers will benefit from proposed reforms of the financial advice market.
The UK's largest National IFA said the shake-up of the advice market outlined in the Retail Distribution Review needs to be accompanied by an effective FSA education campaign that outlines the benefits and value of taking professional advice.
"The FSA has regularly emphasised its statutory objective of promoting public understanding of the financial system," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve.
"The RDR proposals impose profound changes on the market that could leave consumers confused and sceptical unless the time is taken to explain why they are necessary and beneficial."
He said that Positive Solutions welcomed the clear split between "independent" and "restricted" advice but said the FSA will need to work in partnership with advisers on a range of major issues such as changes to the way clients pay for advice.
"Advisers are facing a maelstrom of new rules, including the need to make fundamental changes to the way clients pay for advice by 2012 - in that the payment of commission by providers will be banned," said Jim Reeve.
"From experience we know that it can take up to five years for an independent financial advice firm to change their charging model. It can't be rushed and requires effective and regular dialogue with clients so that they understand and support the change. Clients must understand the service and advice offered by their IFA.
"Independent financial advisers have repeatedly been shown to deliver by far the most trusted form of financial advice, but there is a clear risk some will struggle unless the FSA creates a demand by informing and educating consumers about how advisers add value and why they are being asked to pay a fee.
"This is something that can't wait until 2012 - IFAs need to start remodelling their businesses now to meet the deadline so the campaign needs to swing into action quickly too."
Positive Solutions Thanks Partners For Lobbying Success Over FSA 'Unfair And Excessive' Fee Rise
Lobbying success over FSA fee riseMon. July 6th, 2009
Positive Solutions said lobbying by its IFA Partners was a key factor in persuading the Financial Services Authority to limit this year's proposed fee increases for advisers.
The UK's leading National IFA said of the 530 responses received by the FSA in relation to its proposals made in March for a 15 per cent fee hike, the majority came from its own Partners and their MPs.
In a note to Partners, Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve offered his thanks for their "tremendous response".
"As you know I have been working with AIFA as part of the Regulatory Fees Strategy Group and we decided that as an industry we had to take action against what we saw as unfair and excessive rises in regulatory fees for intermediaries.
"Following your actions and those of AIFA I can confirm the FSA has chosen to slash its proposed fee increases considerably."
He said that the fee block that most affects its Partners, A13 (IFA not holding client money) the proposal was to increase the total levy to £50.5 million from £43.9 million in 2008/9. But following the lobbying the FSA has now announced a reduced figure of £46 million.
"Given that Partners generated more lobbying activity with the FSA and MPs than any other advisory business, I see this as a successful undertaking and would like to thank you for your efforts."
Positive Solutions Marks Its Biggest Ever Synergy Programme With Open Invitation To IFAs
Positive Solutions opens the doors to all IFAsTue. May 26th, 2009
Positive Solutions is opening the doors to IFAs interested in attending its June series of Synergy roadshows covering opportunities in the investment, pensions and protection markets.
The UK's largest national IFA said that the events held so far this year have attracted record numbers of its Partners, with 550 at the first series devoted to pensions and SIPPs and 230 more attending its recent mortgage roadshows.
"We've added extra venues this year because of the strong demand from our Partners," said marketing director Keith Gilmour. "More than ever, they're keen to get to grips with current market uncertainties and fully identify today's client advice and planning opportunities."
"The Budget poses significant challenges for higher earners and these are likely to be high on the agenda for the June events. Held at nine locations across the country, these roadshows will include presentations by Bright Grey, Scottish Provident and Scottish Life."
June marks the halfway point in the 2009 Synergy programme totalling 45 roadshows in all, split into five rounds spread from Northern Ireland and Scotland down to London and the South coast. They allow Partners to keep abreast of industry issues and to quiz providers directly about regulatory and product developments. The regional events are backed up by smaller branch meetings to further underpin the unrivalled support offered by Positive Solutions to its IFAs.
But it is also interested in hearing from external IFAs who would like to attend. "These roadshows are a fantastic opportunity to take stock of what is going on in the markets but also for those advisers who want to know more about Positive Solutions to get a better understanding of how we operate and the benefits we can bring to their practices," said Keith Gilmour.
The list of events is below. IFAs who would like to attend or find out more about Positive Solutions can contact recruitment manager Joe Prince on 0800 953 0262 or by emailing enquiries@thinkpositive.co.uk
Tuesday 9th June, Warrington, Cheshire
Wednesday 10th June, Solihull, West Midlands
Thursday 11th June, Covent Garden, London
Tuesday 16th June, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Wednesday 17th June, Southampton, Hampshire
Thursday 18th June, Bristol
Tuesday 23rd June, Templepatrick, Northern Ireland
Wednesday 24th June, Stirling, Central Scotland
Thursday 25th June, Harrogate, North Yorkshire
Positive Solutions Announce Three New Initiatives To Enhance Mortgage Club Proposition
Positive Solutions announces major enhancements to its Mortgage ClubFri. February 13th, 2009
Positive Solutions has announced major enhancements to its Mortgage Club, enabling Partners to increase business levels in today's challenging market and create a solid foundation for long-term success.
This week sees the launch of new General Insurance and Conveyancing propositions, to be followed by the creation of a specialist 'Masterbroker' referral service focusing on maximising opportunities for Partners in non-standard mortgage business.
Positive Solutions, one of the UK's top 10 mortgage advisers based on new business introductions, launched its Mortgage Club last year to deliver to Partners a range of product and service improvements, exclusive deals and improved fees.
The General Insurance proposition will make it easier for Partners to provide advice and introduce buildings, contents and ASU insurance (accident, sickness and unemployment benefits) from the most highly regarded and competitive UK providers. A key objective is to create a slick sales process through the integration of providers - new business systems with those of Positive Solutions. This will maximize the single-keying of data and provide speedier Evidence of Research for Partners.
The Conveyancing proposition will allow Partners to introduce business to eight of the UK's top conveyancing firms. Unlike many other advice companies, override fees will be included in the IFA's referral fee, making it more attractive to place business. This means a typical referral fee of £150 will be boosted by more than 15 per cent, with referral fees of up to £300 per instruction available.
The Masterbroker proposition draws on the expertise of a specialist team of Positive Solutions Partners. These 'Masterbrokers' will facilitate the successful placement of secured and unsecured loans and other non-standard mortgage business. Referring Partners will benefit from full procuration fees and, by implementing an in-house solution, Positive Solutions and its Partners will benefit from greater transparency and control over the service.
"Positive Solutions is already a major player in the UK mortgage market, highly regarded by providers for both the quantity and quality of our business," said Positive Solutions mortgage manager Paul Rignall.
"We're confident these new initiatives can deliver real upside for our Partners, both now and long into the future. But we are not stopping there - we are already working on a link-up with online estate agencies to generate further mortgage-related business and are looking at helping Partners capitalise on overseas investment opportunities for clients."
Positive Solutions Questions Service Provider 'Pancea' As Applications Form Directly Authorised IFAs Rise
Positive Solutions reports sharp upturn in applications from financial advisers from a Directly Authorised background.Fri. February 13th, 2009
Positive Solutions has reported a sharp upturn in applications from financial advisers from a Directly Authorised background seeking the security and benefits of joining a financially strong IFA organisation.
The leading National IFA believes the trend is being driven by regulatory uncertainty that is making DA advisers reassess their long-term business plans. It also raises questions over whether advisers should believe promises made by third-party service providers to take on the rapidly increasing burdens of regulation and compliance.
"Almost half of applications we receive are now from DA advisers rather than Appointed Representatives," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve. "The appeal of being directly authorised - the supposed greater flexibility and lower costs - is evaporating fast.
"The truth now hitting home is that freedom comes with greater responsibility, higher cost and greater risk. Many DA advisers are wondering whether to continue shouldering that rapidly increasing burden or to instead adopt a new model where they can concentrate on giving advice to clients rather than spending increasing amounts of time and effort on administration, compliance and FSA reporting."
Jim Reeve said that advisers need to look behind the superficial 'cost-saving' promises of third-party service providers who are currently heavily targeting DA advisers.
"Service Providers are not a panacea - they won't help with the problem of rising PI premiums, run-off cover or stricter capital adequacy demands. They may charge for 'arms-length' compliance services, but won't accept liability for advice given by firms who use those services. They will not liaise with the FSA to meet its demands in areas such as visits, TCF deadline checks, reviews of pension transfers, adapting to the RDR, etc. And none of them offer a clean and compliant exit strategy with a guaranteed value.
"As a National IFA, Positive Solutions believes meeting these needs is a normal part of servicing today's IFA. Many DA advisers are coming to understand that to operate in today's environment demands scale, support and strong financial backing - it is folly to try to do it alone.
"In addition, through initiatives such as our Learning Academy we are committed to helping our IFA partners maximise their business potential by giving support and help in the areas that are most relevant to that individual IFA and to creating an environment of like-minded people keen to share ideas and overcome barriers."
In conclusion, Reeve warned that: "There is a continuing misconception in some quarters that the banking crisis and the unfolding debate on City regulation will mean small directly-regulated IFA businesses can somehow fly under the FSA's radar. Quite simply, this is foolhardy in the extreme."
New Positive Solutions Practitioner Programme Spearheads Drive For Professional Excellence
Positive Solutions to launch IFA Practitioner ProgrammeFri. February 13th, 2009
Positive Solutions is to launch an industry-leading IFA Practitioner Programme, offering all its Partners a structured development framework with the potential to propel them into the industry's elite.
The programme headlines a series of new professional development initiatives designed to set new standards of excellence in the industry, including the national roll-out of the Apprenticeship Scheme and the launch of a new Graduate Development Scheme.
Positive Solutions is also linking-up with the Institute of Financial Services to offer the new ifs School of Finance Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA), once Level 4 accreditation is achieved. This will complement Positive Solutions' very successful existing relationship with the Chartered Insurance Institute. As with the CII qualifications, Positive Solutions is offering to fund the exam and study costs for Partners taking the ifs Diploma.
"Partners have been very quick to tap into the potential of the Learning Academy," said Positive Solutions marketing director Keith Gilmour. "The vast majority have grasped the opportunity to develop their businesses and their own technical expertise.
"More than 80 per cent have signed up to the Learning Academy since it was created last August and since then 160 training events have been held and registrations from Partners for CII exams have reached nearly 700.
"The 12-month IFA Practitioner Programme will enhance the 'self-select' nature of the Learning Academy by giving Partners a more structured route through the training options available and a clear objective. It will combine practitioner know-how with the necessary technical and planning knowledge.
"Those that become fully-fledged Practitioners will have the confidence and competence to go on to greater business and personal success, and will be recognised as being among the most highly qualified and knowledgeable advisers working in the UK."
Forming the basis of the future development of the Learning Academy, the Positive Solutions IFA Practitioner Programme will enable advisers to undertake a 12-month step-by-step development programme. Beginning with a mandatory 'foundation' module on business strategy and planning, it moves through a series of practitioner modules (covering areas such as lead generation, client segmentation and income strategies), and finally on to technical modules in sectors such as retirement or investment planning.
It builds on Positive Solutions' commitment to be the most innovative and adviser-focused IFA company operating in the UK.
"Positive Solutions is dedicated to supporting its financial advisers and to bringing much-needed new blood into the industry," said Keith Gilmour. "These initiatives prove we are continuing to build on our position as the most innovative and adviser-focused IFA company operating in the UK."
2009 Full Of Promise Says Positive Solutions Chief Executive Jim Reeve
2009 to offer huge growth opportunities
Fri. February 13th, 2009
Positive Solutions believes 2009 will offer huge opportunities for growth in IFA numbers with an aggressive recruitment campaign targeting the recruitment of a further 250 high quality financial advisers.
In his speech at the Positive Solutions National Forum in Birmingham, chief executive Jim Reeve said the company has the reputation, financial strength and technological excellence to build on its position as the UK's leading National IFA and to deliver a prosperous future for its Partners.
"Through your determination, skill and sheer hard work we will have outperformed all major competitors," he told the audience of 1,000 Partners. "For that I thank and congratulate you. 2009 will focus on increasing your income, driving aggressive recruitment and further positioning ourselves for the post-RDR world."
He said he believed most banks had lost the trust of consumers "not just for a few years but for at least a generation." He said this distrust, the rebuilding of a savings culture and regulatory change will drive a revolution in the IFA sector. "The opportunities for high quality face-to-face advice are truly enormous," he added.
He said that during 2008 Positive Solutions had continued to deliver operating profits off the back of strong income performance. During the year 139 new Partners joined the company and recruitment so far this year had seen "momentum building". The company also plans to extend its unique Apprenticeship Scheme, targeting as many as 500 apprentices by the end of next year.
"We see major recruitment opportunities, particularly in the bancassurance and directly authorised markets," he said. "The DA sector is vulnerable and exposed with the reality of rising FSA fees, PI costs and the impact of TCF - not to mention capital adequacy."
He said there are two key issues advisers should be considering. First, their willingness to attain QCA level 4 qualifications enabling them to continue advising beyond 2012. He said he would support moves for a two year extension to allow those advisers still to qualify to continue advising under supervision. "Our objective is to retain every single one of you beyond 2012 if that is what you want," he said.
The second key issue is the desire to change their business models so that remuneration is agreed with the client and Partners are paid regardless of product purchase. "I realise some of you have already moved in this direction but for many this will mean a radical change and we will support you throughout," he said.
"Our future is a Positive Solutions that supports all high quality advisers no matter their business model, a Learning Academy and Partner Development Consultant team that enables you to secure the necessary professional qualifications and help evolve your proposition through practical support, a Practice Buyout that enables you to sell your business should you choose to, and an Extranet rich with content supporting you to build valued long-term client relationships.
"In conclusion, change is always with us. With our market leadership position and our clear view of the future I truly believe this year will be exciting, rewarding and full of promise."
Positive Solutions Partners To Nominate Candidates For Pioneering Apprenticeship Scheme
Positive Solutions Seeks Nominations From PartnersTue. December 9th, 2008
Positive Solutions has taken a major step forward in the creation of its ground-breaking Apprenticeship Scheme by seeking nominations from Partners for candidates with the ambition to become qualified IFAs.
The scheme of 20 candidates - with half based in Manchester and half in London - will provide information and insight into the planning of a national scheme that will begin rolling-out in 2009 and is ultimately intended to bring hundreds of new recruits each year into the industry.
The initial intake is for non-graduates who will be selected using a national benchmark 'entrance' test. Formal induction into the scheme will be in early December.
Apprentices will each have an individual training plan tailored to their needs and experience. Courses will last between one and two years with trainees working towards the Chartered Insurance Institute's Certificate in Financial Planning.
Each candidate will receive a mix of one-to-one, on-the-job and regular classroom training. They will be mentored by their sponsoring Positive Solutions Partner until signed-off as competent. Training and assessments will be delivered by industry specialist assessors (ISAs) from Skill Solutions, the largest training provider accredited by the CII, with performance reviewed by Positive Solutions' in-house training experts.
"The Apprenticeship Scheme will underpin Positive Solutions' organic growth in the years ahead. It has been created to support the needs of our Partners by developing a flow of new and ambitious IFAs to help them manage and grow their businesses over the long-term," said Positive Solutions marketing director Keith Gilmour. "We know the Partner appetite exists and are anticipating significant demand for the initial 20 places on offer.
"The experience of this initial scheme will be integral to the development of a major national Apprenticeship Programme, aimed at a broad range of potential recruits including graduates, paraplanners and those focusing their careers on specific sectors such as mortgages, long-term care and retirement advice.
"At a time when the UK public has never been in greater need of trustworthy, independent advice, this pioneering initiative will help enhance consumer access to high quality financial advice.
"As the UK's largest national IFA firm, no-one is better placed to do this than Positive Solutions," concluded Gilmour.
Judith Furlong, Business Adviser at Skills Solutions (Business & Financial Services Sector) added: "The Apprenticeship partnership with Positive Solutions will enable existing administrative personnel and paraplanners, as well as new entrants to the industry to gain nationally recognised qualifications supporting the development of a new breed of Financial Advisers.
"Skills Solutions are really excited about the potential of the partnership with Positive Solutions and the CII to bring new blood into our industry, to national standards in a structured framework supported by government funding."
The Chartered Insurance Institute said it is an active supporter of Apprenticeships as a cost-effective route to professionalism. "We work closely with providers and employers such as Positive Solutions that are committed to developing their workforces in a number of ways," noted Steve Jenkins, Director of Financial Services.
Positive Solutions Takes Technological Leap with Launch of New Web-based Partner Network
Positive Solutions Launch new powerful web-based Partner networkTue. December 9th, 2008
Positive Solutions has underlined its position at the forefront of technological innovation in the IFA industry with the launch of a powerful new web-based Partner network.
The Positive Solutions Extranet uses cutting-edge technology to deliver fast and user-friendly access to a wealth of news and information, together with powerful personalisation functions that enable Partners to enhance colleague and client relationships.
"The new Extranet is modern, professional and industry-leading," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve. "It is much more than an evolution - it is a giant leap forward that again highlights our determination to keep our Partners at the forefront of technical innovation in the financial services industry."
To ensure the new Extranet fully meets the needs of advisers, a number of Positive Solutions Partners were involved in its development, initially through a survey and then through a dedicated focus group. The launch is being supported through online video demonstrations and face to face training between Partners and the Positive Solutions Partner Development Consultant Team.
Partners can access enhanced message board facilities, highlight personal and professional information, and gain quick access to a wide range of documents and information through powerful search functions. It encapsulates all the key internal areas - marketing, compliance, technology, and the Learning Academy - along with a wealth of information about external products and providers.
It also allows Partners to build and refine a personalised web presence which can be customised to add content such as news feeds.
"The Extranet has long been a key element of the Positive Solutions Partner proposition, gaining an almost legendary status among users as the beating heart of our business," said Jim Reeve. "By harnessing the latest web technologies, we've taken things to the next level. Partners can choose and use the extranet components that will work best for them. It embodies our maxim altogether individual because it delivers what Partners want in the way they want it."
Leading IFA Warns of Reliance on Corporate Life Assurance Schemes
Leading IFA warns against the pitfalls of relying solely in group schemesTue. October 21st, 2008
With the results of a recent survey revealing three million workers are unaware of their rights to corporate life assurance, a partner at one of the UK's leading national IFA companies is warning against the pitfalls of relying solely on group schemes.
Kelly Wheble, a partner at Positive Solutions, believes the survey - carried out by Aon Consulting - was right to highlight entitlement to corporate benefits such as life assurance to those previously unaware, but feels the research and its resulting emphasis on encouraging sole reliance on these schemes is misplaced.
He said: "The offer of corporate life assurance has always been a significant and valuable contribution to employees, in fact my work at Positive Solutions involves the creation of many group schemes myself. However I would suggest the cancellation of any private cover would be a risky business indeed.
"There are a range of pitfalls an employee could face taking this approach, for example if an employee relies on a group scheme then suffers from an illness, an accident or just gets older, when they need their own policy they may be uninsurable.
"In addition, an employee could get made redundant, become self-employed or as we are seeing increasingly in these turbulent financial conditions, the company could even go out of business. All of these will lead to the employee finding themselves without cover. "
As the research accurately pointed out, corporate life assurance rates are currently very competitive and employees should rightly be taking advantage. However, those now aware they are entitled to this should not rush out and cancel their own private policies, nor should they put off or even stop taking out their own new individual plans, in a bid to cut down their monthly outgoings - as the long term benefits of having both a private and corporate policy far outweigh any initial savings. In theory well advised individual plans are much more likely to suit a families life cover needs than a group scheme whereby one sized fits all.
"If an employee takes out a private policy when fit, healthy and young, they will have an effective policy in place for the agreed term. In addition, company cover normally equates to four times the basic salary - on average this would not be enough for the needs of a family.
"Overall, the research was successful in highlighting the fact that many are unaware of benefits they are rightly entitled to, however the industry should be encouraging intelligent and secure ways of saving for the future, not enticing people into actions that put short-term relief above long-term security."
Cheltenham Adviser Wins Prestigious Financial Planner of The Year Accolade
Positive Solutions independent financial adviser Steve Kadwell is crowned Financial Planner of the Year 2008 by Money ManagementTue. October 21st, 2008
Positive Solutions independent financial adviser Steve Kadwell has been crowned Financial Planner of the Year 2008 by a prestigious industry magazine.
The Cheltenham-based IFA said it was the 'pinnacle of his career' when presented with the award last week at Money Management's annual award ceremony at the Dorchester Hotel, London - dubbed ''the Oscars of the personal finance industry' by BBC's Panorama.
"This is the proudest moment of my business life to date," he said. "Receiving the award from such respected figures from within the industry has given me an enormous sense of achievement and pride."
The 46-year-old founder of Kadwell Financial Management - a specialist in retirement planning -has run his Cheltenham-based business for more than two decades. He recently brought his practice under the umbrella of Positive Solutions, the UK's leading National IFA group with almost 1,700 advisers.
"I felt after 20 years of running my own practice and two years into an exciting practice structure with Positive Solutions, I was ready for a challenge and wanted to take the business on to the next level so decided to put myself up for this prestigious award," he said.
Entering the competition involved a great deal of planning and extra work for the married father-of-two, though working from home has given Mr Kadwell the opportunity to mix his busy professional and work life.
"I am based in a self contained office in my lovely three-story Victorian home, along with my two part-time administration staff," he said. Spending time with my family is extremely important to me, working this way makes it possible - especially with the one-minute commute!
"The criteria for the award involved me compiling three case-studies, chosen from a list of 10 possible subjects, an enormous task to undertake when juggling running a busy practice and my family duties. I am delighted the hours spent researching, drafting and compiling the case-studies - not to mention attending the gruelling interview process in front of a panel of experts - was well worth it in the end."
Mr Kadwell hopes receiving the award and the professional kudos attached to it will act as a springboard to push his business to new heights. It is not his first win at the Money Management awards - back in 1996 he won the award for personal pensions advice.
"That was by no means as significant as winning the overall award, but it enhanced my reputation further and was responsible for bringing new, nationwide clients to the company. I hope this latest win will help push the business on to even bigger and better things.
"I continually strive for excellence in my client work but you never really know how good your work is, as it is never judged - especially by other leading financial planners. So the award is absolute recognition of the quality of work, of which I am delighted about."
Positive Solutions Strenghtens Mortgage Proposition with New Conveyancing Referral Deals
Positive Solutions has announced agreements with three online property conveyancing specialists.Mon. September 29th, 2008
Positive Solutions has announced agreements with three online property conveyancing specialists, allowing Partners advising on mortgage sales to earn extra income from referrals.
The three providers - IFA Conveyancing, Bluetrust Conveyancing and the Halifax Conveyancing Service - will pay advisers up to £200 for each referral passed on.
"These deals again show our determination to add value to our Mortgage Club proposition for advisers, not just through exclusive loan deals but also insurance and associated services," said Mortgage Club manager Paul Rignall.
"Over time we will add new providers and form new alliances to further increase choice and income generating opportunities for advisers."
He said the deals had been welcomed at a time when advisers needed to diversify their income streams and look hard at their business models.
"Many have unwritten referral arrangements with local lawyers or conveyancers but perhaps do not know what benefits these loose arrangements actually deliver," he said. "These new deals give those advisers the option of a formal process which lets them see exactly what positive value is coming back into their business."
Massive Initial Response to Launch of Positive Solutions' Groundbreaking Learning Academy
Learning Academy gets off to a flying start with nearly 600 IFA Partners registering.Mon. September 29th, 2008
The Positive Solutions Learning Academy has got off to a flying start with almost 600 IFA Partners registering online for membership of the Academy in the three working days since the online launch last Friday.
The purpose-built online Academy allows advisers to research and sign up for a wide range of market-leading training and development initiatives over the company's adviser extranet.
Additionally, more than 180 partners have contacted the dedicated Positive Solutions/Chartered Insurance Institute customer service helpline to register for exam entry and the corresponding exam support packages. This follows Positive Solutions' taking an industry lead by promising cover the costs of all Partners' CII diploma qualification materials, course guides, online educational learning and exam entry.
Positive Solutions has set up the Learning Academy to enable its Partners to set the benchmark for adviser standards and to gain the business skills and technical excellence to remain at the forefront of the financial advice market in the 21st Century.
"We are obviously delighted with the initial response to the launch but believe this is only the beginning with increasing numbers of Partners likely to become involved in the coming months," said chief executive Jim Reeve.
"Advisers understand that focusing on their own personal and professional development is essential to their future success in the industry, enabling them to give a higher standard of advice and to break into new markets.
"Creating the Learning Academy shows Positive Solutions stands out from its rivals for giving its advisers more opportunity for success. This early response shows that our Partners are just as keen to make that success happen."
CII Exam Entry Rush Shows Positive Solutions Leading the Drive For Higher Qualifications
Positive Solutions IFAs have enrolled to take nearly 300 exams in the CII's forthcoming exam sittingMon. September 29th, 2008
Positive Solutions IFAs seeking higher professional qualifications have enrolled to take nearly 300 exams in the Chartered Insurance Institute's forthcoming exam sitting.
The impressive response follows the launch of the Positive Solutions Learning Academy and its tie-up with the CII along with its pledge to support and pay the exam costs of all its IFA Partners working towards the Diploma in Financial Planning.
Positive Solutions said more than 200 Partners had enrolled to take a total 287 exams by the closing date, with about 75 advisers taking more than one module. In addition, there have already been more than 130 entries for next April's exam sitting. Overall, nearly 900 Partners have signed up for the Learning Academy since its launch less than two months ago, and 327 have registered for face-to-face training events.
"The size of these numbers clearly demonstrates that our Partners are convinced of the importance of working towards higher professional qualifications," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve.
"The CII has reported an overall 60 per cent increase in registrations for higher exams as IFAs position themselves for the post-RDR world. We believe that Positive Solutions is leading the way."
Steve Jenkins, the CII's director of financial services, said: "We are delighted that the Positive Solutions Partners are already engaging with the Learning Academy and using the dedicated CII support line as a way to move towards higher professional qualifications.
"The impressive take-up being seen at companies such as Positive Solutions shows many advisers are already responding to pressure for higher standards."
Positive Solutions Launches Ground Breaking Learning Initiative
Positive Solutions announces an industry first by committing to meet the costs of its Partners achieving Diploma status qualification.Mon. July 7th, 2008
Positive Solutions has announced an industry first by committing to meet the costs of its Partners achieving Diploma status qualification.
Partners face paying costs of around £1,500 each to achieve their Diploma in Financial Planning, including exam entry costs, course guides and material and additional support.
"This is a significant investment by Positive Solutions into the training and development of our IFA Partners - the lifeblood of our business," said chief executive Jim Reeve. "If two thirds of our partners were to take advantage of the initiative, their total saving would be £1.8 million.
"This underpins our commitment to take the lead by setting out a clear route and providing the practical and financial support to allow our IFA Partners to set new standards in the advice sector.
"The outcome of the RDR is looming over the industry, creating concern and uncertainty. It seems likely the RDR will demand a higher level of qualification although many questions remain. The one thing that is clear is the commercial imperative of investing now to raise standards.
"Clients want to deal with advisers who can communicate in a way they understand, whose independence and technical ability allows them to recommend the very best solutions and focus on developing long-term relationships.
"Positive Solutions is providing the support and training to allow its advisers to deliver a truly compelling customer offering. Initiatives such as the Positive Solutions Learning Academy will help them achieve higher professional qualifications and also develop their skills and technical knowledge, allowing them to thrive in their current markets and expand into new ones."
Partners who have already signed up for the exams this October will qualify for the funding. Positive Solutions Partners who have already obtained Diploma status will be supported in achieving their Advanced Diploma qualification.
Positive Solutions to Attract Next Generation of IFAs With Pioneering Apprenticeship Scheme
Positive Solutions announces the creation of a pioneering Apprenticeship Scheme.Mon. July 7th, 2008
Positive Solutions has announced the creation of a pioneering Apprenticeship Scheme, demonstrating its long-term commitment to supporting the development of the next generation of Independent Financial Advisers.
It will launch with 20 candidates in two locations - Manchester and London - in the autumn, and will grow to be the biggest initiative of its kind. These two locations will prepare the way for the launch of a full national Apprenticeship Scheme in 2009.
Positive Solutions aims to create a successful apprenticeship model that can be expanded across all regions of the UK, linking up with educational and training establishments such as universities and colleges. Their aspiration is to recruit over 500 apprentices by the end of 2010.
The Positive Solutions Apprenticeship Scheme is being developed in conjunction with Skills Solutions, which works closely with the Financial Services Skills Council and was the first training provider accredited by the Chartered Insurance Institute.
"We have developed a framework for our apprenticeship scheme.This underlines our determination to address the shortage of fresh talent entering the industry," said chief executive Jim Reeve. "From talking to our Partners we know there is huge interest in bringing through the next generation of advisers. They are eager to take advantage of opportunities to expand and build long-term value in their own businesses but this growth depends on a flow of new, highly qualified and skilled recruits which the industry is failing to deliver.
Lee McGrath, head of the Positive Solutions Learning Academy, said: "There are repeated concerns over the falling numbers of IFAs operating in the industry and the rising average age of those remaining. The lack of new recruits means our Partners are left with real problems planning for the long-term, such as how to cope with an increasing number of clients and planning for their own retirement.
"The need for high quality financial advice is real and destined to grow in the future which should attract new talent in to the industry. We believe that over time, the Apprenticeship Scheme will provide us with a great opportunity to support our current Partners, grow our adviser numbers organically and to strengthen our business even further."
Positive Solutions Urges Mortgage Brokers to Widen Advice Scope
Mortgage advisers need to head back to basics if they want to draw more value for themselves.Mon. July 7th, 2008
Mortgage advisers need to head back to basics if they want to draw more value for themselves and their clients in the current tougher mortgage market, says Positive Solutions.
With dual mortgage pricing from some lenders continuing to impact on adviser remuneration levels, Positive Solutions mortgage manager Paul Rignall suggests advisers need to refocus in order to maximise the advice opportunities open to them and prevent seeing a drop in overall revenues.
He said advisers need to switch emphasis from focusing purely on finding the best mortgage solution for a client to adding greater value through the provision of additional complementary services and advice.
"Over the last few years advisers may have been focusing purely on the mortgage deal, but they now need to look at the wider issues that surround it," he said.
"We know that the population generally is underinsured, so advisers need to get back to basics, making sure that the public is aware of why insurance such as life cover is necessary not just to safeguard the mortgage, but to cover the family as well," he says.
"This wider scope should include everything from conveyancing, home information packs, bridging finance, through to general insurance products and of course the protection sale, in order to maximise their earnings from every potential mortgage they undertake. Equity release is another potential growth area for advisers, either to advise on directly if they are suitably qualified or to use referral services."
Paul Rignall believes the current environment is also conducive to building long term relationships with clients, rather than focusing on one-off sales.
Positive Solutions is taking the lead by working with a range of providers to deliver a number of attractive options to help its Partners add value to their client offerings and to continue building remuneration for their services.
Positive Solutions Targets South-West Expansion With New Plymouth Office Opening
Positive Solutions opens new state of the art office in Plymouth.Mon. July 7th, 2008
Positive Solutions is underlining its commitment to expand in the South West with the opening of a new, state of the art office in Plymouth.
The waterfront office will be formally opened this evening at an event attended by Positive Solutions directors and Partners along with guests including clients, businessintroducers and potential Partner recruits. Special guest and speaker will be renowned market analyst Justin Urquhart-Stewart of Seven Investment Management.
The opening brings to 13 the number of regional offices operated by Positive Solutions on behalf of its Partners. It will form the focus of the company's activities in the South West, giving Partners in the area access to office space and client meeting rooms backed up by wireless telecommunications and cutting edge design.
It will also underpin Positive Solutions' expansion drive in the area, providing a permanent base for the company's top recruiter, Martin Brown. Martin is keen to build on his success in recruiting 91 advisers (with a gross turnover of £8.6 million) since 2003.
"The South West is now one of Positive Solutions' fastest growing and most productive regions. This fantastic new office, which uses the latest in advanced technology, will compliment Martin?s success in this area and will provide a superb centre for the region's continued success in years to come," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve.
Positive Solutions Launches Ground-Breaking Learning Initiative
Positive Solutions formally launches the Learning AcademyMon. July 7th, 2008
Positive Solutions has today formally launched what it hopes will become the most influential and advanced learning initiative in the financial services industry.
The UK's leading IFA company has chosen July 4 'Independence Day' to launch the ground-breaking Learning Academy that will equip its 1,700 Independent Financial Advisers with the technical and business skills to keep them at the vanguard of the 21st Century financial advice market.
Developed in conjunction with the Chartered Insurance Institute, specialist training organisations, and the industry's leading product providers, the Learning Academy will set the benchmark for professional development within the financial services sector for years to come. The academy is delivered through a new online training platform. It will allow Positive Solutions Partners to enhance their ability to deliver an unrivalled quality of advice to clients and to focus on building long-term value.
"The Learning Academy is the biggest training initiative of its type in the market for decades," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve.
"It is founded on the principle that 'competence drives confidence' - by giving our Partners the professional and personal skills to feel confident about their business, we will give clients the security of knowing they are receiving the best advice possible.
"We are delighted to be working closely with the CII to develop the initiative and which will provide support through a dedicated service centre. As the world's leading professional organisation for financial services, it sets the standards we want to be judged by. In addition we are working with leading product providers to create a training and development environment unrivalled in its scope and depth."
The creation of the Learning Academy follows a recent poll which found a huge appetite for training and professional development, with 85 per cent of Positive Solutions IFA Partners recognising the importance to their future success.
The launch is being accompanied by the publication of a unique Positive Solutions 'route map' to act as a guide for Partners seeking to achieve the Diploma in Financial Planning, likely to be the benchmark qualification required under the Retail Distribution Review proposals.
The Learning Academy will focus on four key development areas, allowing Partners to access a tailored continuous professional development solution and to build up an individual training record. The four areas are:
- Personal Solutions - training to develop 'soft skills' such as sales and negotiation, presentation, time management, leadership.
- Professional Solutions - the route-map to higher qualifications and greater professional status.
- Progressive Solutions - assisting Partners to move into new markets such as tax, trusts, investment and retirement planning.
- Profitable Solutions - supporting the growth of profitable businesses such as income strategies, business plans, marketing, client segmentation, TCF and succession plans/exit strategies.
"The Learning Academy creates a true learning environment for all those IFAs who seek to grow and develop themselves and their businesses. This will be the ultimate one-stop shop for all advisers wanting to stay at the forefront of the industry," said Jim Reeve.
"In conjunction with our other initiatives such as the creation of an Apprenticeship Scheme to attract the next generation of IFAs, the Learning Academy is core to the future success of our Partners and our business."
Positive Solutions Announces Chief Operating Officer Appointment
Greg Carter is appointed new chief operating officer.
Thu. June 12th, 2008
Positive Solutions is strengthening its proposition for adviser partners with the appointment of new chief operating officer Greg Carter.
In his new role, Greg will oversee compliance, technology and operational support. He joins from Origen Financial Services where he was risk management and compliance director, but has been working with Positive Solutions since November on risk management and compliance.
He has more than 22 years' experience within the financial services industry, within both distributors and product providers before joining Origen in 2005.
"This new role offers a fantastic opportunity for me to play a major role in the growth of one of the strongest and most innovative UK whole of market IFA companies," said Greg.
Greg's appointment builds on the recent creation of a new Positive Solutions marketing team under marketing director Keith Gilmour.
"We will deliver a deeper and more compelling proposition for our adviser partners by building on the strengths of our compliance, administration and marketing teams, while pushing ahead with industry-leading initiatives such as the Learning Academy," said Keith.
Speaking on the strengthening of the senior team and the overall Positive Solutions proposition, CEO Jim Reeve said: "Greg's extensive knowledge of compliance and TCF issues, combined with the creation of the new marketing team, is more evidence we are determined to be proactive in continuing to develop our unrivalled offering for partners and their clients."
Positive Solutions Says Mortgage Lenders Starting to Rethink Dual Pricing Strategies
Mortgage lenders are beginning to rethink their strategiesThu. June 12th, 2008
Mortgage lenders that have pulled the plug on providing competitive deals through the intermediary market in recent weeks are beginning to rethink their strategies, according to Positive Solutions.
Mortgage manager Paul Rignall said he has now detected a change in attitude from some key mortgage lenders towards the intermediary market and a recognition that dual pricing is not in their longer-term interests.
"Lenders have seized the opportunity to take control and maximise profits to help bolster their balance sheets," he said. "But they are waking up to the fact that they don't want to disenfranchise a huge section of the market that has produced perhaps two-thirds of their business in recent years.
"It is in no-one's interests for the current situation to continue and those lenders who do start to play fair with the intermediary market are likely to gain the most in the future."
Following conversations with lenders in recent days, Paul Rignall believes the days of dual pricing - with the rates on deals available through intermediaries typically 0.5 per cent higher than going direct - are numbered.
"Brokers have been angry at the lenders' actions because they have been forced to point their clients in the right direction for no reward," he said. "Lenders have also won few friends among mortgage customers who are dismayed their broker, their main source of high quality advice at a difficult time, has effectively been sidelined."
He said that while the mortgage market is getting back to normal, advisers need to focus on relationship building with clients.
"?Advisers might have lost out this time around with the mortgage sale, but if the client leaves feeling they have got the right advice, they will come back," he said.
"There are also opportunities for advisers to add value for themselves and clients by ensuring they are optimising the sale of protection products around those mortgage deals."
Positive Solutions Upbeat After Reporting Record Month In April
Positive Solutions reports strong new business figuresThu. June 12th, 2008
Positive Solutions has reported strong new business figures for the opening months of 2008, topped off by a record sales performance in April.
Gross commission and fees from sales reached £11.3 million in April, its highest ever monthly figure. Total new business turnover in the first four months of 2008 was £38 million, comfortably above the level recorded in the same period last year.
"Despite tough trading conditions across the UK market, we have made an excellent start to the year, with our partners delivering the most productive month in our history," said chief executive Jim Reeve.
A key driver of this success has been pensions business, which has doubled since January and accounted for a quarter of the total business written in April. In the mortgage market, despite the exceptionally difficult market environment, mortgage and mortgage-related business was still in excess of 27 per cent of Positive Solutions' new business in April.
"Although there has been an undersupply of competitive, innovative products in the mortgage market over the last few months, our first ever exclusive under the new Positive Solutions Mortgage Club accounted for an excellent £70 million in lending over the six weeks it was available," said Jim Reeve.
"These income figures and the resilience of our mortgage business speak volumes for the focus and drive of partners and the overall strength of the business model."
He said 49 advisers had joined Positive Solutions so far in 2008, half of them from a directly authorised environment. "This reinforces our view that small, directly regulated businesses are operating in an increasingly challenging environment which is likely to help our future growth," said Jim Reeve.
"But we are seeing equal number of joiners from other IFA networks and the direct sales/bancassurance channels, underlining the attraction of our proposition across the whole adviser market."
Generous Positive Solutions Partners Select Five Charitable Projects For £100,000 Payout
Five charities selected by IFA partners at Positive Solutions receive funding.Thu. June 12th, 2008
Five charities selected by generous IFA partners at Positive Solutions, the leading National IFA company, and The Harrison Foundation are receiving funding for key projects and equipment totaling £100,000 in the coming weeks.
Partners who contributed to the fundraising were asked to nominate charitable causes close to their hearts, with the eventual selection whittled down to five deserving causes across the country.
"The Partners attending the National Forum last year were challenged to put their hands in their pockets and donate enough tomake a difference", said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve.
"Thanks to their generosity along with a Positive Solutions donation, and additional sums from Aegon and former chairman David Harrison, the total reached £100,000 - a fantastic sum that will help the selected charities to buy new equipment and undertake important projects."
Former executive chairman of Positive Solutions David Harrison said, "On behalf of The Harrison Foundation I'd like to publically thank all of the Positive Solutions Partners who have contributed with their donations and their ideas. It is the belief of my fellow trustees and I that this initiative will make a difference". The charities selected are:
- The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths (FSID) - £7,725 to buy breathing monitors for babies at risk of cot death.
- Acorns Children's Hospice, Worcester - £13,500 to refurbish lounges, dining areas and family accommodation to enhance the home from home environment.
- The Sick Children's Trust (SCT), Newcastle upon Tyne - £25,000 for the Raise The Roof appeal to extend accommodation enabling family members to stay close to children being treated at hospital for serious or terminal illnesses.
- The Cedar School, Southampton - £30,000 to modernise the library and main hall at the special school for children aged 3 to 16 with physical difficulties such as Cerebral Palsy and Spina Bifida.
- St Ann's Hospice, Manchester - £25,000 for improvements at its Heald Green site which provides palliative care for patients suffering cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.
Positive Solutions Welcomes FSA's Strong Endorsement of Independent, Whole of Market Advice
Jim Reeve welcomes the FSA's Retail Distribution Review interim report.Tue. May 6th, 2008
Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve has welcomed the FSA's Retail Distribution Review interim report that strongly endorses the benefits of independent, whole of market advice.
"We welcome the strategic direction set out in the paper and the FSA's determination to simplify the market by creating a clear divide between advice and sales, he said. "A market which is easier to understand will improve consumer confidence both in the advice they receive and the products they buy.
"The paper carries a strong endorsement for the value of whole of market/IFA advice, the very model that Positive Solutions wholeheartedly embraces.
"We support raising the bar with regard to professional standards, skills and qualifications which is why we have launched our market-leading Learning Academy for our Partners. We also welcome the range of realistic adviser remuneration options mentionedin the paper.
"As the FSA has identified, there are many questions and issues still to be resolved to implement their vision. In the months ahead we will continue to work with AIFA and the regulator to achieve the best possible result for our partners and their clients."
Survey Reveals Healthy Appetite For Training Amongst IFAs
Survey reveals that Positive Solutions partners recognise training and development are essential to their future success in the industry.Tue. May 6th, 2008
An overwhelming 85 per cent of Positive Solutions 1700 partners recognise training and development are essential to their future success in the industry.
They also acknowledge the need for professional qualifications is only set to increase as industry changes, such as those likely to be proposed from the Retail Distribution Review (RDR).
The survey also revealed that IFAs prefer more traditional training methods, with face-to-face workshops rating most popular followed by E-learning and video training.
The results come as Positive Solutions continues to lay the foundations for its groundbreaking Learning Academy - a virtual university that will enable partners to receive high quality training to further enhance the breadth and depth of their advice and to help them open up new markets.
Learning Academy head Lee McGrath says four "Ps' will underpin the academy philosophy.
o Personal - the academy aims to improve individual?s skills in everything from adviser negotiation skills to time management, as well as offering individualised study programmes
o Professional - study of Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) exams and helping to ease partners through RDR requirements
o Profitable - helping advisers to grow their businesses while providing exit strategy support for those looking to leave the industry.
o Progressive - aiding partners to move into new marketplaces.
While the survey found only 22 per cent of Positive Solutions partners were currently studying CII exams, 78 per cent were considering it.
"There's a definite recognition and appetite from the business partners for learning and development," says McGrath.
"They recognise that they?re going to have to go through a whole training and development programme to get through RDR - event though they don't even know the detail around it yet.
"Not only does our survey provide ample justification for creating the Learning Academy but it shows there?s a real appetite from advisers too."
More about the Learning Academy will be revealed to members at the upcoming series of Aegon-sponsored Positive Solutions -Synergy road show events, which are taking place around the country in the coming weeks.
Positive Solutions Appoints Keith Gilmour New Marketing Director
Positive Solutions has announed the appointment of Keith Gilmour as Marketing Director.Tue. April 8th, 2008
Positive Solutions has announced the appointment of Keith Gilmour as Marketing Director.
He joins to lead a new marketing team committed to further developing the Positive Solutions brand and growing the business in support of the company's 1,700 Partners.
With 18 years experience in the UK financial services industry, Mr Gilmour has held a number of sales, marketing and product development roles across companies including Skandia and Scottish Life.
He joins Positive Solutions following seven years in senior positions at Clerical Medical, where he was most recently Head of Distribution and a member of the HBOS Financial Services Management Board. A staunch supporter of independent advice, Mr Gilmour is a former board member of IFA Promotion. "I'm delighted to have joined one of the most impressive and entrepreneurial independent financial advice businesses operating in the UK today," said Mr Gilmour. "There are many exciting opportunities available to build on our high quality proposition to Partners and clients as the company enters a fresh growth phase under dynamic new leadership."
Positive Solutions Chief Executive Jim Reeve said: Keith is a key appointment to developing the Positive Solutions brand and business. He has an excellent track record in the industry, with the sort of impressive skills and experience that will be crucial for driving the business forward in the future."
Positive Solutions to Launch Groundbreaking Adviser Training Academy
Positive Solutions has unveiled plans for a unique training initiative that will equip its partners with business skills and technical excellence.Tue. April 8th, 2008
Positive Solutions has unveiled plans for a unique training initiative that will equip its partners with the business skills and technical excellence to remain at the vanguard of the 21st Century financial advice market.
The Positive Solutions Learning Academy will operate as a 'virtual university' on a scale never before seen in the industry, allowing all IFA Partners access to a comprehensive range of high quality training to underpin the quality of their advice and open new market opportunities.
The Academy will allow partners to build up a formal record of their qualifications and training, encouraging a long-term focus on continued professional development for the benefit of both advisers and clients.
"Positive Solutions has become the leading National IFA because its Partners deliver top quality advice to its clients," said chief executive Jim Reeve. "It is important we build on that lead by giving our Partners the tools to reach their full potential."
"Our current partners have expressed a real desire to develop their business and advice skills and to be able to demonstrate their commitment to reaching the highest possible professional standards."
"The Learning Academy is a groundbreaking proposition for an IFA company, giving access to a vast range of top quality training options and a library of information that will underpin their future development. This clearly demonstrates that Positive Solutions stands out from its rivals for giving partners more opportunities for success."
The Learning Academy will be open to all Positive Solutions partners and will be delivered in a number of ways including formal training days and distance learning. It will focus on four main areas:
oProfessional qualifications
oTechnical training to build product and business knowledge
oSkills training to support and develop adviser-client relationships
o'Celebrity' lectures to motivate and promote success
The initiative will involve linking with a range of third-party groups including the Chartered Insurance Institute for professional standards and qualifications, dedicated financial services training companies and a range of product providers.
Jim Reeve said the Learning Academy is a bold step towards meeting continued pressure on the advice industry to improve knowledge and professionalism.
"Our partners are among the most productive in the industry due to the quality of their advice and wide experience but this initiative will allow them to demonstrate to the public and regulators their commitment to continually raising advice standards, he said."
Positive Solutions is one of the leading companies providing its advisers the support and knowledge for them to successfully operate and thrive whatever the future holds.
Positive Solutions Targets Home Loan Market with Launch of New Mortgage Club
Positive Solutions has created a new Mortgage Club to give partners the opportunity to benefit from exclusive deals with lenders, higher service standards and improved fees.Tue. April 8th, 2008
Positive Solutions has created a new Mortgage Club to give partners in the leading national IFA company the opportunity to benefit from exclusive deals with lenders, higher service standards and improved fees.
The Positive Solutions Mortgage Club heralds a new in-house focus on mortgage advice and sales and signals the company's ambition to build on its brand and position as one of the leading players in the UK market.
Positive Solutions is a key mortgage player, with about one-third of its 1,700 advisers focusing primarily on the mortgage market an overall value of introductions in excess of £7 billion last year.
"These levels of business already put Positive Solutions in the 'top 10' of UK mortgage advisers," said mortgage manager Paul Rignall. "The Mortgage Club aims to build on that success and to allow our partners to continue thriving in more demanding market conditions."
The Mortgage Club will give advisers 'whole of market' choice but will focus on building strong relationships with 25 of the largest mortgage companies accounting for about 90 per cent of business to secure enhanced service standards, higher fees and the ability of Positive Solutions advisers to sell exclusive products for the first time.
"Lenders have been keen to become involved because they are well aware of not only the quantity but also the high quality of our business in terms of cost-effective electronic submission of business and renewals," said Paul Rignall.
"They are keen to access our advisers and clients, giving us greater leverage to negotiate terms. The benefits will be seen directly in areas such as fees but also in joint initiatives between lenders and Positive Solutions to promote products and services to generate better opportunities in mortgage-related sales. These initiatives will be supported by the first ever Regional Mortgage Conferences run by Positive Solutions."
"In a tightening market, service will be a key differentiator in the mortgage advice process and lenders are beginning to realise the benefits of dealing with Positive Solutions - unique interactive pipeline system with all the time and resource benefits it brings to lenders and advisers."
"But this is not just about improving the proposition for our current partners. The benefits of the Mortgage Club will make Positive Solutions a very attractive proposition to all advisers who are looking to build a prosperous future within a financially secure company."
"Consolidation in the industry is likely, particularly in a weakening home sales market although we expect remortgage business to remain strong. Many directly authorised brokers will rightly feel it is a good time to move under the umbrella of a single large company and Positive Solutions stands out from the crowd as a successful company that not only makes promises but delivers on them too."
Positive Solutions Enters into Exclusive Partnership to Advise Single Parents
Positive Solutions will deliver financial services to single parents in an exclusive partnership with consumer websites OnlyDads and OnlyMums.Tue. April 8th, 2008
National IFA, Positive Solutions will deliver financial services to single parents in an exclusive partnership with consumer websites OnlyDads and OnlyMums.
The websites offer emotional and practical support to the 3,000,000 single parents in the UK who juggle the pressures of work, home, and school life. Many people become 'lone parents' without warning which can leave them financially vulnerable.
OnlyDads and OnlyMums founder, Bob Greig said: "The end of a relationship, whether due to bereavement or a break-up, results in the need for people to re-evaluate their finances including their mortgage, savings, pensions and insurance contracts."
"Positive Solutions is our perfect partner. It has nationwide distribution, offers independent advice on a very wide range of products, and has a particularly empathic approach."
Wherever possible, Positive Solutions advisers who are themselves single parents, will advise members of the websites at a time of day or evening to suit clients, and in the convenience of their home or workplace.
Chris Hull, proposition development manager at Positive Solutions added: "There is a real deficit of specialist financial advice in this area and more than 200 Positive Solutions partners have already expressed interest in this worthy project."
Our advice will be tailored to suit the needs of single parents. We understand time is precious and by giving clients access to online valuations and the ability to communicate with our advisers electronically, our service will complement their daily routines.
Said Keith Gilmour, Positive Solutions marketing director, "we are always interested in talking to innovative companies. We work with over 1000 introducing firms and this involves advising the clients of a vast range of businesses. When we heard about OnlyDads and OnlyMums, we knew immediately that we were a strategic fit."
Positive Solutions Strengthens Partner Proposition with Innovative Synergy Initiative
Positive Solutions has teamed up with a select group of leading UK financial services companies to create a new initiativeWed. January 31st, 2007
Positive Solutions has teamed up with a select group of leading UK financial services companies to create a new initiative - Synergy - to deliver outstanding benefits to Partners and their clients.
Synergy companies will work with Positive Solutions on three key areas:
·Developing and delivering exclusive products
·Sponsoring high quality networking and promotional events
·Providing marketing and client support resources
Positive Solutions has initially announced three Synergy companies focusing on investment and pensions business: Aegon, Funds Network and Zurich. For mortgage business it has teamed up with Abbey for Intermediaries and RBS Intermediary Partners for lending, and Legal & General and Bright Grey for protection.
"Synergy gives us an innovative platform to build stronger relationships with a carefully chosen group of market-leading companies for the benefit of our Partners and their clients," said Positive Solutions chief executive Jim Reeve.
"This further enhances the Positive Solutions offering and ties in closely with our other key initiatives including the Learning Academy and the Mortgage Club. Partners will of course continue to have whole of market choice but in addition will gain exclusive access to a range of compelling products along with higher standards of service and support."