Global advice network Lawsons may not be the most known in the industry, but the organisation has plans to compete with the biggest in the sector.
The network has operations in Switzerland and the UAE – and supports individuals and appointed representatives.
The firm said it has members across five continents.
But the network has been very media-shy and International Adviser spoke with the company to discuss why that is the case and its plans for the global advice market.
Jennifer Toon-Davenport, membership and acquisition director at Lawsons, said: “Our approach has always been something that sets us apart from other IFA networks. Of course, it’s important to grow our membership and build our network of market-leading product providers. But really, our mission so far has been to deliver our core values to members.”
Stephanie Estlick, operations director at Lawsons, added: “We’re not about the hard sell. Instead, our aim has been to attract advisers and providers who share our values – and we’re proud of the successes we’re experiencing on that front.”
Aims and targets
IA reported on the network for the first time during the launch of UAE-based Wimbledon Wealth.
This highlighted the network’s role in helping new firms set up across the world.
So, what does Lawsons want to achieve in the future?
Toon-Davenport added: “Our goal is to grow the network while continuing to deliver world-class service to our members. We want to give advisers in the international arena the freedom and flexibility to grow their business independently, efficiently and successfully.
“We’re on a growth pathway with plans to expand into new and existing regions – including the USA , Latin America, Europe, the UK and Asia.”
Sarah Oglesby, onboarding director at Lawsons, said: “We want to become the world’s leading SaaS IFA network. With that in mind, our technology-driven approach is something that really differentiates us from other IFA networks – it’s unique in the industry.
“We use tech to streamline every aspect of the member experience – from onboarding and training to writing business and communicating with clients. As a result, we give our members the freedom to control their future remotely, wherever they are in the world.”
Benefits
Every network can be a great helping hand to advisers – and offer benefits for being a member.
Toon-Davenport said: “At Lawsons Network there are no restrictive covenants; members own their client relationships with no pressure from the senior leadership team. As a result, they can focus on growing their businesses – either using our retail umbrella Lawsons Wealth or their company’s brand as appointed representatives – with the network providing all the support they need.
“We’ve secured terms of business with a multitude of industry-leading providers from around the globe – offering an exciting and diverse range of traditional and alternative products that give our members the power to boost client outcomes.”
Oglesby added: “Collectively, the team has a vast range of experience, both within the international wealth management sector and outside of it. We understand the challenges and the pitfalls. As a result, the Lawsons business model includes elements that work well – allowing white labelling for businesses, for example – or using our client facing brand, Lawsons Wealth. It’s a fresh and exciting model with market-leading commission rates as well as super quick pay away and daily commissions. Plus, as a team, we’re really invested in the success of our members.”
Competition
There are many networks in the international advice space – and Lawsons is not letting that stop it from its ambitious plans.
Estlick added: “We’re not trying to compete – instead, our focus is ensuring that we continue to meet members’ needs and exceed their expectations.
“The rest will take care of itself.”
Oglesby said: “While competition is healthy, we’re not worried about what other networks are doing. We’re single minded in our goal to deliver our value proposition to our members, ensuring that we’re dynamic, efficient and trustworthy while providing the regulatory infrastructure, transformational technology and support to allow our members to grow their businesses with confidence.”
