As well as technical competence, this year’s awards had a focus on the improving access to consumer personal finance and broadening diversity and inclusivity in the sector - a key area of focus for the PFS as the organisation’s CEO, Keith Richards, revealed last week.

This year saw record entries across fourteen categories.
 
The PFS’ flagship award, Chartered Financial Planner of the Year, was won by Natalie Wright of Mazars, who was previously shortlisted for the award.

Eldon Financial Planning was awarded the Chartered Financial Planning firm of the Year for the second time.

Jade Mountford scooped Paraplanner of the year.
  
The lifetime achievement award was won posthumously by David Booth, the late PR manager at the PFS, who passed away in the summer.

Beloved by journalist’s and all who knew him, Mr Booth’s family were guests of honour at the PFS awards. 

Natalie Wright receives her award
 

The awards, among the most prestigious accolades in the Financial Planning sector, were presented in front of a full house in London by Clive Anderson, from the BBC’s QI.

Award winners are below:
 
Chartered Financial Planner of the Year                                                           Natalie Wright

Chartered Financial Planning Firm of the Year                                                 Eldon Financial Planning

Money Planner of the Year                                                                                Derek Howard

Paraplanner of the Year                                                                                     Jade Mountford

Mortgage and Protection Advice Specialist of the Year                                    Maxim Cohen

Investment Advice Specialist of the Year                                                         Robert Little

Retirement and Later Life Advice Specialist of the Year                                  Vanessa Townshend

Lifetime Achievement Award                                                                             David Booth
 

Jade Mountford receives her award

Keith Richards, CEO of the PFS, said: “It is important to recognise the outstanding achievements of individuals and firms who are making a positive contribution to the evolution of our profession and the delivery of great client and public interest outcomes.”

He added: “There are thousands of unsung heroes in our profession and in recognising David Booth for his lifetime achievement to our profession we acknowledge all who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this sector so great.

“The need and demand for professional advice is set to continue in the future and we have been really impressed by the quality of the entries we received this year which has raised the bar yet again.

“It was a fantastic night and I am delighted that we can recognise excellence in the profession and personal finance media with these awards.”