Gillian Clifford (Chartered FCSI)

What attracted you to a career in wealth management?

I embarked on my career in wealth management over 30 years ago because I wanted to help and empower people to achieve their life goals – whether that’s securing a legacy for their children, buying their dream sailboat, or achieving their philanthropic aims.

I spent much of my career at Coutts bank. I started out resolving queries for many HNW families, and quickly saw the need and benefit of financial planning. I went on to achieve my Financial Planning and Private Client Investment Advice and Management exams. I am now a Fellow of the Chartered Investment and Securities Institute. 

What attracted me to a career in wealth management continues to be what drives me forward at Quilter Cheviot – helping families and clients safeguard their significance and live a life of meaning where they have the financial freedom to pursue their passions.

What would you like to achieve for clients?

I work in partnership with clients and their advisers, such as lawyers and accountants to achieve the right solutions for them. I believe a collaborative approach to wealth management is essential to achieving optimal client outcomes, especially with the great wealth transfer on the horizon. 

I have a strong focus on supporting clients through very difficult periods in their life such as divorce or bereavement, using my skills to balance wealth with mental well-being and emotional support. I believe on going on a journey with a client, with the ultimate outcome of achieving financial resilience and confidence, which in turn leads to freedom and joy.

My experience covers pension and estate planning, assessment, and analysis of existing plans along with intergenerational wealth planning to maintain the family wealth for the next generation.

What are you passionate about in life?

Other than my clients, I am also a passionate mother, wife, friend, and dog owner. I love a long walk with friends over the weekend with our working cocker spaniel, Jet. When I am not dog walking, I enjoy running and outdoor boot camp. To relax, I look forward to my regular book club meetings.  I also keep abreast of current affairs, and you can quite often find me reviewing the financial news with a good coffee in hand.