Financial advice, transformed
On leaving school, Mike trained to become a stockbroker in Huddersfield, qualifying in 1973 just as the oil crisis caused the stock market to collapse. Forced into an alternative career, Mike worked in banks and owned several post offices before returning to his first love, stockbroking, when the markets eventually recovered. Over time, he acquired a 50% stake in the company he joined, which eventually became BWD Securities plc, the first stockbroking company to float on the London Stock Exchange. At this stage, aged 39, Mike decided to retire, believing he would never work again.
Of course, within two years he was as busy as ever, acting as non-executive director for four public companies, Chairman of the Prince’s Trust Yorkshire and governor at several local schools. He had also set up his own charitable trust.
Since then, Mike has donated his time, money and expertise to a wide variety of organisations; today acting as a board member at Huddersfield University and as the Chair at Finance South Yorkshire.
The seeds of Mike’s association with Robertson Baxter were first sown when Greg visited Mike to give him financial advice during his time at HSBC bank. Seeing Greg’s potential, and perhaps a little of his former self in Greg’s enthusiasm and expertise, Mike encouraged him to find a business partner set up his own IFA – and the rest is history in the making.
There is no doubt that the gravitas, experience, encouragement and reputation that Mike lends to Robertson Baxter has helped them to create a truly differentiated and exclusive service. And whilst Mike no intention of reducing his input into their ongoing development – far from it – he is now ready for the next challenge.
Which is why, having just turned 60, and with his enthusiasm undiminished, Mike’s philanthropic outlook continues; he is currently deciding which business and / or charity will next benefit from his input.
A family man through and through, Mike talks proudly of the various endeavours that his wife, sons and daughter are involved in. He’s a keen golfer and skier, and enjoys travelling, although it’s hard to imagine when he finds time for himself!