Active Chartered Financial Planners, in Stockton, has welcomed chartered financial planner Craig Honeyman and chartered paraplanner Lauren Lee to its team.
This comes as the firm’s demand continues to grow.
These appointments follow a successful recruitment drive in 2024, which saw four additional team members, including another chartered financial planner, join the company.
This brings the total number of chartered qualified individuals to 15 within a 29-member team.
Craig Honeyman, who has more than 20 years of financial planning experience, has built a reputation for providing expert advice, particularly in pension and retirement planning, investment planning, and home finance.
He holds an advanced diploma in financial planning and achieved chartered status with the Chartered Insurance Institute in 2022.
Lauren Lee, who has been in the financial services industry since 2011, joins as a chartered paraplanner.
Ms Lee has a wealth of experience in compliance and operational support roles and is a fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute.
Karl Pemberton, managing director at Active Chartered Financial Planners, said: “This year marks a significant milestone for us as a business.
“While we’re proud to celebrate 25 years of helping clients across the region, our focus is firmly on the future.
“The additions of Craig and Lauren reflect our continued growth and the high demand for quality advice and support.
“Both bring exceptional experience and share our commitment to putting clients first.
“We are thrilled to welcome them to the team.”
The two new recruits also bring personal connection and knowledge of the region.
Mr Honeyman is based in Guisborough, where he lives with his family.
Ms Lee recently returned to the North East after living in Abu Dhabi for more than two years with her husband and daughter.
Ms Lee said: “Active Chartered Financial Planners has been incredibly welcoming.
“I knew a lot about their culture before I came here, and it really hasn’t disappointed.
“The management is so approachable, the team is so friendly, and the firm is so adaptable and understanding towards its employees.
“They really care if you are happy or not.
“It is lovely to be happy to go to work, as not many people get to say that.”
Mr Honeyman added: “I was drawn to Active Chartered Financial Planners because of its independent status, strong local reputation, and client-centred approach.
“The firm’s values, culture, and ethics closely align with my own.
“Being part of a chartered firm, working alongside so many other highly skilled individuals was a huge part in my decision to join.”