Seven Street Wealth unveils succession plan after 40% turnover growth following MBO

Seven Street Wealth unveils succession plan after 40% turnover growth following MBO

Mark Dobson

Edinburgh-based financial planning firm Seven Street Wealth has announced a long-term succession plan after increasing turnover by 40% and expanding its team in the three years since completing a management buyout.

The independent wealth management business, which advises individuals, families, trusts, charities and corporate clients, was acquired by its management team in 2023 before rebranding from its former identity as the financial planning arm of Chiene + Tait LLP.

Since the buyout, the firm has invested in technology, financial planning systems and specialist expertise to support its growth strategy and strengthen its client offering. Seven Street Wealth, which also has an office in London, said the investment has helped it respond to an increasingly complex financial and political environment while maintaining its personalised approach to advice.

The business has now outlined its leadership transition plans after director Gordon Birrell confirmed he intends to retire in December 2028.

The succession process will see the firm’s next generation of advisers gradually assume greater responsibility over the next two years to ensure continuity for clients.

Managing director Mark Dobson, who led the management buyout alongside Birrell, said: “Gordon has been a trusted colleague and friend for more than 20 years. The relationships he has built with clients over that time reflect the care, professionalism and personal commitment he brings to his work every day.

“When Gordon and I completed the buyout, we wanted to create a business that would endure - one that remained independent, looked after its clients properly and gave good people the opportunity to build fulfilling careers. The strength of Seven Street Wealth today is a direct result of that approach.

“We have experienced advisers ready to take on greater responsibility, and another generation of talented professionals developing behind them,” he added. “That depth of talent gives us real confidence for the future and, most importantly, means clients can be confident they will continue to receive the same high standards of advice, care and personal service for many years to come.”

The transition will be supported by the firm’s next generation of financial advisers, who will gradually take on more responsibilities over the next two years. Liane Cox joined the business in 2024 and has 23 years’ experience in the industry. Jonathan Pryde and Ryan Forrest have dedicated the last decade to learning their trade and developing their skills.

Birrell said: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, but I am equally proud of the people who will take the business forward. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working alongside colleagues who have grown, developed and become exceptional professionals in their own right.

“While retirement is still some way off, there is great comfort in knowing that the relationships I have built with clients over many years will continue in the hands of people I know and trust.”

The firm has also broadened its service offering since the buyout, appointing chartered tax consultant Hazel Gough in 2023 to strengthen its tax planning capabilities, while Nicola McDevitt joined earlier this year as training and competence manager. It has also continued to grow its advisory team, with experienced financial planner Liane Cox joining in 2024 alongside advisers Jonathan Pryde and Ryan Forrest.

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