ValidPath adds new independent financial advice firm to its network

Network for independent financial advisers (IFAs), ValidPath, has added Manning & Company, a Devon-based firm managing £300 million, to its network and IFA community. 

The transition to ValidPath is coupled with Rimbal, the parent of ValidPath, providing capital to Manning & Company as part of supporting their long-term growth strategy.

Founded in 1988, Manning & Company offers independent mortgage advice, as well as advice services for protection, retirement planning & pensions, business services, savings & investments, and equity release.

The business is led by managing director Paul Northmore, who joined Manning & Company straight from school in 1994 and, over the past three decades, has helped to build the business, alongside long-standing directors Patrick Goddard, Mike LeGassick and Lisa Burton. 

Manning & Company says that the transition to ValidPath comes as part of its long-term growth strategy, and central to this plan is the ValidPath Growth and Transformation Programme, a growth framework that aims to help independent advice firms scale more effectively, accelerate long-term growth and build long-term business value while retaining their independence and identity. 

Technology and operational efficiencies are also part of Manning & Company’s plan, something which ValidPath actively supports. Mike LeGassick has led internal projects focused on enhancing digital engagement and client experience, including the development of a digital application.

Mike LeGassick, director of Manning & Company, said: "Technology should enhance relationships, not replace them. If we can reduce administrative burden and create more time for meaningful client conversations, that’s a positive outcome for both advisers and clients."

Paul Northmore, managing director of Manning & Company, said: "We’ve always been committed to independence and doing the right thing for our clients. As a leadership team, we reached a point where we knew we had strong foundations and a clear opportunity to grow further, but we also recognised we needed the infrastructure, expertise and support to help us take the business to the next level. Working with ValidPath provides us this support and an ability to access additional capital for growth."

Laura Handy, growth & development manager at ValidPath, said: "Paul and the wider Manning & Company team have built a highly respected and client-focused business with strong foundations and a clear plan for the future. We are very excited to support them on their growth journey as they transition to ValidPath and transform their business for growth and value creation while continuing to support clients in their best interests.

"Business planning, succession planning, growth planning, leveraging capital and then execution. This is exactly what the ValidPath Growth and Transformation Programme was built for - helping ambitious independent firms take the next step in their growth journey without compromising independence or their identity."