BRI Wealth Management (‘BRI’), the leading Coventry-based wealth management firm, today announces the completion of its acquisition of financial advisory firm, West Midlands Wealth Management (‘WMWM’), adding approximately £50 million in client assets across 80 households.
Founded in 2015 by Ian Gough, WMWM provides independent financial advice across key areas of financial planning, supporting clients through major life stages including investment management, retirement planning, and estate preservation.
Gough has worked in financial services since 1987. A Chartered Financial Planner and Associate of the Personal Finance Society (APFS), he began his career at Norwich Union before becoming an Independent Financial Adviser in 1997. During his career he has also held senior management roles, including Branch Manager at Towry Law in Birmingham, advising clients on lifetime financial planning, investments, taxation and trusts, retirement planning and the needs of company directors.
Dan Boardman-Weston, Chief Executive at BRI Wealth Management, said: “I have great admiration for the value and service that Ian has provided to his clients over the years. This acquisition underlines our commitment to offering a client-first alternative to private equity-driven consolidation. I also want to thank Dan Bisby and James Farrell at Schofield Sweeney for their continued advice and expertise. I’m grateful also to Dan Campanale at Chapters Capital for introducing us to Ian.
“Our ambition is not to be the largest wealth manager, but to be the leading one in our region, built on continuity, trust and long-term relationships, while delivering high-quality advice in a supportive and professional environment.”
Ian Gough commented on the acquisition: “Today marks an important milestone for both WMWM and our clients. I am proud to have guided the firm to this stage, and it has been a pleasure getting to know Dan and his wider team. BRI’s client-centric culture, strong team and tailored advice offering align closely with the way we have always worked. I am confident this partnership will provide our clients with access to even greater expertise and resources to support their long-term financial planning.”
The acquisition follows a period of strong growth for BRI. The firm now manages approximately £800 million in client funds, a record high. In October last year, BRI also completed the acquisition of Gloucestershire-based advisory firm FutureFocus Advisory Limited, adding a further £40 million in client assets. BRI has also strengthened its leadership team with the appointment of Toni Meadows as Head of Investments. Meadows brings extensive industry experience, having previously held senior roles at Omnis Investments, The Private Office and Towry.
Dan Boardman-Weston continues: “BRI is entering an exciting period. We are seeing record levels of enquiries and client inflows. Structural trends, including growing financial complexity and the fact that only around 9% of UK households receive financial advice, are creating significant demand for high-quality advice. With strong momentum, a talented team and a compelling client proposition, we are confident about the years ahead.”
