Client Profile – Financial services professional planning for retirement.

The Challenge: A Clear Path to Retirement

In 2017, the client began planning for an early-to-mid-2020s retirement. With two personal pension pots accumulated over a career in financial services since 1983, they needed a detailed strategy to consolidate their finances and transition from full-time work into a secure and comfortable retirement.

Their primary concerns were:

Integrity: Working with someone trustworthy.

Trust: Confidence in the advice provided.

Experience: Guidance from someone with a proven track record.

Relationship: A partnership built on understanding and clear communication.

Why They Chose Astute Financial Planning

The client was introduced to Sarah through a trusted professional relationship with a colleague who had previously implemented a similar retirement strategy. This recommendation, paired with Sarah’s reputation for expertise, approachability, and clear communication, built the foundation for a successful partnership.

The Solution: A Tailored Retirement Strategy

After a series of face-to-face discussions and ongoing communication, Sarah created a personalised retirement plan. The strategy took into account the client’s:

• Existing pension pots and their potential.
• Retirement timeline and desired lifestyle goals.
• Risk appetite and financial independence needs.

The plan was put into action in 2017, with regular reviews to ensure it remained on track.

The Outcome: Early Retirement and a New Chapter

Thanks to the strategy implemented, the client retired confidently in April 2022. They now enjoy life as a fully retired “pensioner,” free from the pressures of a demanding sales role. The plan provided the clarity and security they needed to make the transition seamless.

Client Feedback

“Sarah, you are knowledgeable, always available, speak plain English, and get things done. The strategy we implemented went completely to plan, and I am 100% satisfied with the outcome. I’m now living the life I dreamed of in retirement.”

The client appreciated Sarah’s expertise and her ability to simplify complex financial details. They felt supported throughout the process and completely satisfied with the outcome.

Core Values in Action

Trust: The client felt confident in Sarah’s ability to deliver on promises.

Compassion: A genuine partnership built on understanding the client’s goals and concerns.

Respect: Open communication and a collaborative approach ensured the client was always informed and comfortable.

Learning: Sarah’s ability to explain financial matters in plain English made the process accessible and empowering.

The value of investments, pensions and the income they produce can fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.