Hopefully, you’ve seen and digested last month’s announcement confirming the imminent retirement of HA&W’s Jim Aitkenhead.
After 34 years, Jim has made the tough but exciting decision to leave the business. He has already been in direct contact with his clients and a smooth transition process is well underway.
I’m sure you’ll join us in giving our heartfelt thanks to Jim for his dedicated service and wishing him all the best for a very happy retirement.
It wouldn’t be right, though, to let Jim go without a final word – on his career, his plans for retirement, and the future of HA&W.
Time to focus on Jim
Back in 2000, you might have read ‘Jim Aitkenhead celebrates 30 years and counting’ in which we spoke to Jim about his career so far, as he met with some of his clients to celebrate three decades in the profession.
Since then, Jim has been finding things slightly tougher.
“I’d hoped to slow down slightly as I entered my fourth decade as a financial adviser and planner, but things haven’t quite worked out like that. I’ve happily taken on more clients, but several health issues – including a recent eye operation – have forced me to re-evaluate.
“All in all, I’ve opted to view the last few years as a sign, and taken the difficult but exciting decision to step aside and enjoy my retirement.
“It’s time to focus on me.”
The profession is constantly evolving… It gets harder to keep up!
The company has changed a great deal over the last 34 years.
It was in September 1990 that Jim first joined Arthur Bown (Leicester), promptly changing the name of the firm to Arthur Bown Financial Services. Later, the name was changed again, first to Hunter & Aitkenhead, then Hunter, Aitkenhead & Walker, and finally Handford, Aitkenhead & Walker.
The last four years or so have seen more change.
“When I took a step back in 2019, Alasdair became managing director and the focus – quite rightly – began to shift more firmly toward financial planning, rather than advice.
“I’ve kept up to date as best I can but it’s getting harder. Regulatory and rule changes are happening all the time and the industry is constantly evolving. I don’t want to feel like yesterday’s man.
“I’m very lucky to know that I’m leaving the company in such safe hands… and younger hands too.
“It’s the younger generations that have the vision and the drive to push the business forward and make sure we’re still here in another 34 years.”
Big retirement plans begin with a trip to Tromsø
Jim’s retirement is set to include travel and taking up a new hobby or two.
“My wife Aly is all set for an expedition to Tromsø in Norway, for which my role is mainly as chief bag carrier. I do intend to try my hand at dog sledging while I’m there, though. And Nordic walking, complete with sticks and snow shoes.
“We also plan to return to Asia, which has been our intention for some time.
“Aly and I recently made our first foray into the world of CaniCross. These are organised events where dog owners and exercise enthusiasts walk or run with their dogs, most often with their dog leads strapped around their waists.
“I’ll most likely be opting for the walking option but it’s a wonderful opportunity to get out into the fresh air and try something new.”
Loyal customers made the job a pleasure
“I’ve had an incredible 34 years and enjoyed my career immensely, largely thanks to my loyal customers – many have been with me since the very start. I’ll miss them dearly.
“Over the years, I’ve done my best to look after them and it’s made for a very rewarding career. It’s time now, though, to look after myself.
“It’s ironic that after so many years in financial services, it was partly a change in the Budget that forced my hand. But the timing is right.
“I’m going to miss my colleagues very much too. Throughout the last 34 years, it’s always been a joy to come to work and chat about global affairs and politics.
“But, as I’ve already said, the company is in safe hands. Alasdair is wise beyond his years, sensible and cautious but with the drive to push the business onward.
“It only remains to say thank you!”
