She joins from Chartered Financial Planning firm Handford Aitkenhead & Walker where she was operations director.

At BRI she will work with the wealth management team headed by Andy Gillett, head of wealth management advice.

In her new role at the wealth manager and Financial Planner she will work with clients to develop their financial strategies. She has worked in the profession for over 15 years and her experience includes advising on financial wellbeing as well as pensions, investments, tax and lifetime Financial Planning.

Ms Ripley began her career at Financial Planning firm Michael Ambrose Group as a SIPP administrator before moving to more senior roles at the firm as a Paraplanner and Financial Adviser.

In 2020, she joined Leicestershire-based Chartered and Accredited Financial Planning firm Handford Aitkenhead & Walker as Chartered Financial Planner and was appointed operations director two years later.

She is an accredited Retirement Planning Specialist and holds the CFA IMC qualification as well as being a Chartered Fellow of the Personal Finance Society.

Mr Gillett said: “We are delighted to welcome Laura to the firm. She brings a strong balance of both technical and soft skills which perfectly fit within the culture of the firm. Her understanding and appreciation for the entire financial advice process, her diligence and commitment to providing her clients with the best possible solutions make her a great addition to BRI Wealth Management.”

Ms Ripley said: “BRI Wealth Management is a leading and well-regarded business, particularly in the West Midlands. The firm is recognised across the sector for its client service, skilled and attentive staff and strong work ethic. I’m really excited to join the company at this exciting juncture in the firm’s growth journey.”

BRI provides advice on a range of areas including investment management, Financial Planning, ISAs, pensions, inheritance tax planning and tax relieved investments. Customers include private clients, charities, trusts, intermediaries and corporations.