Midlands-based Smith Cooper Independent Financial Solutions has rebranded as Everlong Wealth after being awarded Chartered Financial Planner status.

A Chartered Financial Planning firm has won the contract to advise Premium Bonds £1 million jackpot winners. 

A Chartered Financial Planning firm has announced a new non-executive chairman.

Clarion Wealth Planning has appointed Keith Thompson, the founder of Taylor Knowles Financial Planning in Lancashire.

In a statement, Clarion said: “Keith is a highly-respected figure with an illustrious background in the wealth management industry. He has helped to build and grow two wealth management businesses and brings over 50 years’ experience to the role. Keith will be central to the delivery of Clarion’s long-term expansion strategy.

“After founding and managing Taylor Knowles Financial Planning, a leading Financial Planning business in Lancashire, Keith went on to become a founding director of Altrincham and London-based Greystone Financial Services. He spent more than 20 years at the latter firm, acting as chairman from 2001.”

Mr Thompson said: “Having worked in the industry for many years, Clarion’s comprehensive approach to Financial Planning appealed to me. Putting their clients’ long-term aims first, they help hard-working business owners articulate and then achieve what they want from life. I am looking forward to supporting the team at Clarion during its latest expansion stage.”

Ron Walker, managing director of Clarion Wealth Planning, said: “Keith’s extensive industry experience will be a huge asset to Clarion. During his career he’s been central to the growth of two financial planning firms and his business acumen will be very valuable as we continue to grow.

“Keith’s knowledge and expertise will also help us further enhance the service we offer to successful business owners who are seeking to achieve the lifestyles they deserve.”

Keith will also play a leading role within the firm’s sister company, Clarion Investment Management. This business provides discretionary investment management services designed specifically for clients of Clarion Wealth Planning.

Based in Cheshire, Clarion is a boutique wealth management specialist with over 30 years’ experience helping hard-working business owners and their families to achieve the lifestyles they desire and deserve.