Qualified professionals who genuinely care about your financial future
We're a team of chartered financial planners, paraplanners, and client service specialists – all working together to give you the best possible advice and support.
Every member of our team is FCA regulated, fully qualified, and committed to ongoing professional development. But more importantly, we're real people who understand that behind every portfolio is a person with hopes, dreams, and concerns about the future.
Senior Financial Planner & Founder
Michael founded Sterling Financial in 1998 with a simple mission: provide honest, jargon-free advice that puts clients first. A Chartered Financial Planner with over 25 years of experience, he specializes in retirement planning and pension transfers.
Specialisms: Retirement Planning, Defined Benefit Pension Transfers, Tax-Efficient Withdrawals
"I started this firm because I was frustrated with how complicated the financial industry made everything. My job is to translate the complex into the simple – and help you make confident decisions about your future."
Senior Financial Planner
Sarah joined Sterling Financial in 2010 and specializes in investment planning and intergenerational wealth transfer. With a particular passion for helping women plan for financial independence, she's known for her patient, empathetic approach.
Specialisms: Investment Planning, ISAs & Tax Wrappers, Inheritance Tax Planning, Women's Financial Planning
"Money conversations can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're not sure where to start. I'm here to make it easier – no judgment, just practical advice and genuine support."
Senior Financial Planner
David specializes in working with business owners and corporate professionals, helping them navigate complex pension arrangements and maximize tax efficiency. He's also our go-to expert for international tax and cross-border wealth planning.
Specialisms: Corporate Pensions, Business Owner Planning, International Tax, Executive Benefits
"Business owners often neglect their own financial planning because they're too busy building their company. I help you protect your wealth and plan for life after the business."
Financial Planner
Emma joined us in 2019 and brings fresh energy and enthusiasm to the team. Currently studying for her Chartered status, she specializes in working with younger professionals and first-time investors who are just starting their wealth-building journey.
Specialisms: First-Time Investors, Pension Consolidation, Cash Flow Planning, Millennial Financial Planning
"You don't need to be wealthy to benefit from financial planning. Whether you're saving your first £1,000 or your first million, I'll help you build a solid foundation for the future."
The talented professionals working behind the scenes
Senior Paraplanner
James is the technical wizard behind our recommendations. He creates detailed suitability reports and ensures every piece of advice is thoroughly researched and compliant.
Client Services Manager
Lucy is often the first voice you'll hear when you call. She coordinates meetings, manages client communications, and makes sure everything runs smoothly.
Financial Administrator
Tom handles the paperwork so you don't have to. From application processing to provider liaison, he ensures your financial affairs are managed efficiently.
We know the alphabet soup of financial qualifications can be confusing. Here's what they actually mean:
The gold standard in financial planning. CFP® professionals have completed extensive training, passed rigorous exams, and committed to ongoing education and ethical standards. Only the top 15% of advisors hold this qualification.
The professional standard for financial advisors. This advanced qualification covers pensions, investments, taxation, and estate planning in depth. It's the stepping stone to becoming Chartered.
The foundation qualification for financial advisors. Anyone giving regulated financial advice must hold at least this level, which covers core financial planning principles and regulatory requirements.
All our advisors are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority – the UK's financial regulator. This means we meet strict professional standards, and your money is protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme.
We'll match you with the advisor who's best suited to your needs. No obligation, no pressure – just a friendly conversation about your financial future.
