At Cooper Parry Wealth, we’re surrounded by brilliant minds and unique stories.
In the third edition of our Spotlight series, we caught up with Peter Wicks to hear about his journey – from kickstarting his career in financial services to joining CPW and making a real impact with clients. Plus, we got a glimpse into his bucket list dreams.
WHY COOPER PARRY WEALTH?
I joined Cooper Parry Wealth when it acquired Chamberlyns – a fellow CISI Accredited planning firm – in Autumn 2023. I am based in our office on the Hertfordshire / Bedfordshire border, but I help clients all over the UK!
HOW DID YOU KICKSTART YOUR CAREER?
The first half of my career in financial services was spent working within platforms and providers. This gave me a good exposure to a wide variety of financial services. It helped to be curious and – in a nice way – being a bit nosy, wanting to know why something was the answer, rather than just the answer itself.
I passed the Certified Financial Planner qualification in 2022 at the first attempt. A qualification many at CPW hold (or are working toward), this is a great indicator of commitment to the highest standards of holistic financial planning – there are only about 1,000 in the UK.
It’s a cliché, but one of my earliest managers advised “don’t bring me a problem, bring me a solution”, and this mantra has served me well– it’s advice that would kickstart anyone’s career, whatever the job.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF YOUR ROLE?
I enjoy how varied the role is, and this extends to the people we meet and work with. Everyone has different circumstances, goals, preferences and concerns. What might be suitable for one person may not be for the next. Navigating that – along with legislative changes / opportunities that arise over time – continues to be a challenge I enjoy – it can be like 3D chess!
Having now worked with the same clients for several years, I have seen plans put down on paper come to fruition – stopping work, making that special purchase, helping the next generation with weddings / house purchases. That is really special, and a reminder that we’re always planning for life rather than money – we are in a privileged position as part of this process.
WHAT’S ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?
I have three young children, so being able to help them grow up happy, healthy – and financially independent! – is an obvious one.
Whilst it seems to be too late to play upfront for Southampton, I won’t give up on that one just yet.
Otherwise, a bit more travel is needed too – Japan is high up the list, as would be going back to Australia – we’ve been, but it wasn’t for long enough. Maybe touring round Italy on an old Vespa!
THINK CPW COULD BE FOR YOU?
We’re growing quickly and we’re always on the lookout for exceptional people that feel right at home in our progressive, inclusive, high-performance culture.
Check out our vacancies to find out if CPW could be your next career move.
