| FIRECREST FOUNDER Gareth Collier, CFP®, has been a practising financial planner since 2012. He is a director and founder at Firecrest Group and is driven to provide the highest level of advice and service to his clients. Collier holds a BComm Financial Management degree (UNISA, 2009); postgraduate diploma in Financial Planning (UFS, 2016); CFP® designation (2018) and a postgraduate diploma in Investment Management (UFS, 2021) where he excelled as the top overall student. He was recognised as one of the top three financial planners of 2024 by the FPI. |
Congratulations, Gareth, on founding Firecrest Modern Capital. Please encapsulate the establishment into three sentences.
Firecrest was born from a desire to offer deeply personalised financial planning for entrepreneurs and families navigating the complexities of substantial wealth. Recognising the need for a transformative approach, we envisioned a practice where expert guidance and tailored strategies empower clients to achieve their unique aspirations. This vision has forged a dedication to securing long-term prosperity and peace of mind for discerning individuals and their families.
What was the most challenging aspect of starting your own practice?
It was initially balancing the demands of building a business infrastructure while focusing on delivering exceptional client service. Establishing the necessary operational frameworks, from technology to compliance, required significant time and effort, all while ensuring the high standards of personalised attention our clients expect. It has, and continues to be, a delicate act of creation on multiple fronts.
What is key in the development of your business?
The development hinges on two key cornerstones: nurturing strong relationships with all stakeholders and actively engaging with the broader financial planning profession community. Building genuine trust and fostering enduring connections with our clients remains paramount.
Equally vital is cultivating collaborative relationships with complementary businesses, forming a network where each party, being the best in their field, brings their specific expertise to benefit our respective clients. We believe that this interconnected approach will foster a high standard of service and contribute significantly to Firecrest’s growth.
How will you develop your financial planning team?
Team development will be deeply rooted in the principle that every individual within our ecosystem matters. Growth will be intentionally organic, attracting individuals who resonate with our mission and purpose.
Our aim is to cultivate a partnership-driven environment where our team feels a profound sense of belonging and empowerment to contribute their unique talents. Each member should thrive, knowing their perspectives and wellbeing are paramount, fostering a shared commitment to excellence in all aspects of our practice.
What will set Firecrest apart?
We plan to strategically leverage technology to streamline processes that maximise the time available for meaningful conversations with our stakeholders. Our exceptional value will be further amplified by our growing network of best-of-breed complementary businesses. This collaborative ecosystem allows us to offer insightful guidance in both local and offshore financial planning strategies.
The core of our client engagements is our “head, heart and hands” philosophy: applying sharp intellect and expertise, coupled with genuine empathy and a focus on actionable solutions to empower our clients.
What is Firecrest’s business strategy and philosophy?
Our strategy is built on a long-term vision that extends beyond our individual involvement, creating a sustainable entity for all stakeholders. We are committed to fostering trusting relationships with everyone connected to Firecrest – our team, clients and network of supporting businesses. We recognise that mutual respect and shared values are essential for enduring success. Our philosophy centres on continuous growth and adaptation, striving to build a practice that creates a legacy of excellence and integrity that will benefit those involved with Firecrest long into the future, ensuring its support for generations to come.
Which services do you offer?
Our services are centred on providing intuitively crafted financial solutions, encompassing the overarching aspects of financial planning, investment management, retirement and estate planning and risk management. This includes guidance on the complexities of significant wealth, providing tailored advice on effective tax planning. Recognising the interconnectedness of personal and business finances, we assist business owners with implementing comprehensive employee benefit solutions.
We also offer expertise in global wealth management, philanthropic advisory and comprehensive family office services, including wealth structuring and multi-generational planning. As a meritocratic practice, our advice is always objective and driven by rigorous analysis, so that clients can access opportunities based on their inherent value and suitability. While our planning process is comprehensive, it is by no means prescriptive; we believe the most impactful planning arises when solutions and decisions are co-created with our clients. Our overarching goal is to provide clarity and confidence in navigating the complexities of their financial lives.
What advice do you have for those setting up a new financial business?
While the foundational elements of business – compliance, licensing and operational processes – are essential, don’t let them overshadow the core purpose: enjoying being of service to your clients. It’s easy to lose sight of the fulfilling work of client engagement. Launching a practice, while exciting, is also isolating. Build a strong network to share the journey and navigate the inevitable challenges. Self-doubt will likely surface. Seek out mentors who offer guidance and help you regain your footing. Don’t hesitate to ask for help; it’s a sign of strength.
Cultivate a clear vision for the practice you want to create. Remember that creating something and sharing it with the world is the most personal form of risk. It’s emotional, tied to identity and calls for judgement. That risk may be essential to the process of making something truly meaningful. Stay true to your authentic self – that unique quality is why clients and stakeholders will connect with you in the first place. Embrace your individuality; no-one can be a better “you” than you.
