Mr Barker was previously at Cavendish Medical where he spent six years specialising in advising senior NHS staff, an area that requires a strong knowledge of the NHS pension scheme.

Mr Barker said: “I have spent a large portion of my career providing specialist advice for those working in the medical profession and their families, including both NHS and private practice clinicians. In recent years, there have been many legislative changes in this area that have meant the nature of the advice given has become increasingly bespoke.”

He joins the team in London reporting to Leon Buckley, partner, Financial Planning.

Mr Buckley said: “Members of the NHS face a number of financial challenges that need specialist advice, such as navigating the advantages and disadvantages of the pension scheme and how these tailor to their other financial planning needs. Paul has a wealth of experience in this field and will be a vital member of our team during an important period of growth for the business.”

Prior to their merger in September 2020, Tilney and Smith & Williamson migrated to a remote working model ahead of the first lockdown in mid-March last year.

The company has said that teams are currently working from home with investment managers’ and Financial Planners having full access to group systems through technology.