Staff spotlight: Meet Ben Burgess

In our regular staff spotlight feature, we’re introducing the people working behind the scenes to support your financial journey, one team member at a time.

Previous editions have featured Rachel Heeley and Dan Dimond, client relationship managers, as well as Tara Wood and Andrew Mansion, financial advisers.

Now, it’s time to meet Ben Burgess, another independent financial adviser, as he talks about his role at Cheltenham IFA, his approach to client relationships, and what he enjoys doing away from the office.

Hi Ben, tell us what your role is at Cheltenham IFA, how long you’ve been here, and what you do day to day.

I’m an independent financial adviser, and in September, I’ll have been with the firm for eight years.

Being a financial adviser is about more than numbers – it’s about people. My role is all about helping clients take control of their finances and achieve their goals with confidence.

That involves talking to clients to understand their requirements, building rapport and trust, reviewing clients’ future aspirations, assessing risk profiles, designing bespoke financial plans, and maintaining client plans and objectives as their circumstances change over time.

I also liaise with other professionals, when required, and keep up to date with changes to taxation and regulation to ensure my advice remains compliant.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

I love the satisfaction that comes from helping clients achieve their life goals and secure their financial futures. Making a real difference to the lives of my clients and providing peace of mind, especially in today’s turbulent economic and political times, is incredibly rewarding.

What is a memorable experience or achievement in your career?

Simply building lasting relationships with my clients. Developing strong bonds with families and individuals – leading to partnerships and friendships that, in some cases, have lasted many years – is the achievement of which I’m most proud.

How do you build relationships and trust with clients and understand their needs?

Consistent reliability. That means not letting clients down and delivering on my promises.

In addition, I emphasise transparent communication and active listening to make sure I understand my clients’ unique needs. This also means going beyond the surface level and uncovering underlying motivations, concerns, and true desired outcomes.

What do you think sets our firm apart in the sector?

I think that our strong leadership, deeply embedded company culture, and clear focus on great client service set us apart from other firms.

What are your hopes for the future of our firm and the clients we serve?

I hope we continue to help clients achieve their ultimate goals and turn their long-term financial ambitions into reality, whether that means protecting wealth for future generations or securing financial freedom for them to live and enjoy the life they want.

On the business side, I’d like us to continue to cultivate a “human firm” culture, one that blends expertise with genuine compassion and celebrates our clients’ life milestones. Beyond that, I want us to have a lasting impact. I want Cheltenham IFA to be recognised as an essential partner in our clients’ lives and business successes, and for our firm to be known for our integrity and dedication.

What would you tell someone who has never taken advice and is considering it?

Firstly, I’d ask them to identify their financial goals, gather as much related information as possible, and consider how much risk they’re prepared to take on. Based on that information, I’d help them decide the most appropriate approach for their situation, whether it’s a one-off plan to execute themselves or ongoing advisory services.

Some quick-fire questions about you…

• What are your hobbies and interests outside of work? Sports, particularly football, cricket, running, and motorsport. I also enjoy hiking, gardening, nature, spending time outdoors with family and friends, and exploring new places in the UK and abroad.
• What is your favourite book or movie and why? Cinderella Man (the book and the film), a rags-to-riches story about life in the Great Depression.
• What is the most interesting place you’ve visited? Paris, for its history and architecture.
• Can you share an inspiring quote that resonates with you? “KBO” – Winston Churchill.
• How do you stay motivated and productive? I focus on building consistent daily habits rather than waiting for inspiration, setting small achievable goals, and always celebrating the victories, no matter how small.
• What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know? I once bumped into Lionel Richie in a hotel lobby!

Thanks, Ben!

Get in touch

For more information about how our brilliant team can help you shape your financial future, email info@cheltenhamifa.co.uk or call 01242 269656.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.