WE’RE HERE TO HELP MEET OUR TEAM

Lee Clayton

Before co-founding CHN I was Financial Planning Manager for NatWest Bank between 1999 and 2004. As a Qualified Chartered Financial Planner of the Chartered Insurance Institute and Personal Finance Society (PFS), I act as both Managing Partner at the firm in addition to providing regulated financial advice in all areas of financial planning.

Richard M Holmes

A founding Partner of CHN, and a qualified Chartered Financial Planner and Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute and Personal Finance Society. Richard does not provide regulated investment and pension advice via CHN, his main responsibilities revolve around the training and development of consultants.

Paul Naisbitt

Paul is a founding Partner of CHN. Prior to this he spent 23 years working for NatWest Bank in the development of its Yorkshire region corporate financial advisory division. Paul does not provide regulated investment and pension advice via CHN, as his focus is around the management of the company’s financial activities plus consultants training and development.

Steve Ramsden

Steve leads our back office team and is responsible for overseeing the day to day running of the business. Steve took up this new position in January 2014 and CHN was delighted when Steve accepted an invitation to become a Partner in 2018. Having led support teams for over 20 years, across the financial services and audit sectors, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role.

Sophie Thornhill

Joining NatWest Royal Bank of Scotland on the Private Banking & Advice Graduate Programme in 2008, this saw me work across a number of areas in the bank, before becoming a qualified Private Investment Manager and then moving to HSBC Premier before joining CHN in January 2014.
Areas of Expertise: Investments, Personal Protection, Retirement Planning, Wealth Management, Inheritance Tax.

Peter Simpson

With over 16 years’ experience in the Financial Services field, I began my career with Lloyds TSB as a Branch Advisor, before taking on the role of IFA with the Bradford & Bingley, covering the Yorkshire region. I then spent 9 years as a Whole of Market Advisor with Skipton Financial Services, responsible for over £50 million funds under management, specialising in both Investment Planning and Inheritance Tax Planning, before joining CHN.

Shehzad Bashir

With over 25 years working in Financial Services, my career began at Pearl Assurance before moving on to work with NatWest Bank as a Business Financial Planning Manager, providing advice to both businesses and their owners. I was with NatWest for over 19 years working with Private Banking Managers, dealing with their high net worth clients, providing holistic financial planning.

Matthew Kay

Working for Santander for 7 years I then moved to CHN 5 years ago, working mainly out of the Aire and Wharfe Valley. I have a wide and broad client base of both private individuals and also corporate clients, advising a number of Businesses and Business owners in the area. We offer a professional and personalised approach to financial planning and are always willing to give people time to get the most from our meetings and the best outcomes.

Rajiv Mehta

Spending 8 years as a Specialist Financial Adviser at NatWest, I headed up a high performing team of 5 relationship managers, with full responsibility for their training and motivation, keeping them informed of NatWest’s financial products before then joining CHN in June 2016.
Areas of Expertise: Investment, Pension, Protection, Inheritance Tax and Mortgage Planning.

Graham Burton

Working in financial planning for NatWest Bank for 30 years I then joined CHN in November 2012. I offer services in all areas of financial planning for individuals and also specialise in giving business and corporate advice on key person protection, director/partnership share protection as well as retirement planning, Nest/workplace pension planning.

Richard Ramsden

Working for NatWest Bank for over 13 years as a Premium Banking Manager, I left to work as Financial Director for one of my clients. I then went on to work for a local estate agent as their Mortgage and Protection Consultant before joining CHN in 2008.
Areas of Expertise: Mortgages, Protection

Deborah Tate

After spending 10 years working for large financial institutions in the Isle of Man, I joined CHN in 2010 as Protection Consultant. With full support from the firm and progressing to advising in all areas of financial planning, I have built fantastic client relationships. I offer bespoke solutions for both individuals and businesses from retirement planning, investments, protection to mortgages.

Daniel Lees

Having previously worked as a Financial Planning Manager with NatWest Bank, I joined CHN in 2013 as a Financial Consultant. My areas of expertise cover both individuals and businesses and include retirement & inheritance tax planning, investment advice, protection, family & Ltd company mortgage advice and wealth management.

Simon Bingham

Working for over 25 years in Financial Services, I was with NatWest Bank for over 19 years and Pearl Assurance before that. With NatWest I spent most of my time as a Business Financial Planning Manager working with SME, providing advice to both businesses and their owners, with spells of working with the Private Banking Managers dealing with the banks high net worth clients, again providing holistic financial planning advice.

Samim Mitha

Having previously worked in wealth management with HSBC, I joined CHN in 2013. I provide bespoke advice in investment planning, inheritance tax planning, retirement planning and director/partnership share protection. I can work with you over the long term to make sure your plans continue to reflect your lifestyle, goals and overall tax situation.

Syed Rizvi

Working for 21 years as Senior Financial Planning Manager for RBS/NatWest Group, I provided advice to both high net worth individuals and clients within the Banks commercial & corporate sector. Joining CHN in 2016 I have continued to provide advice to these same clients. Areas of expertise include company director exit strategies, share holder protection, retirement planning, trust and tax planning.

Katherine Ramsden

Working in the banking sector for 20 years, I began my career in a mortgage centre for the Abbey National before going on to become an in-branch Customer Manager. In 2001 I joined NatWest and have worked there for the last 17 years carrying out financial reviews in the branch for a portfolio of clients. I qualified as a Personal Development Coach in 2017 and in 2018 qualified as a Mortgage and Protection Consultant before coming on board with CHN.

Brad Crowther-Hirst

I started my career at Barclays as a Woolwich Mortgage Adviser before moving to NatWest as a Financial Planning Manager. Later, I worked with a National IFA business. Having previously worked for CHN in 2011, I am delighted to be back specialising in Mortgages and Protection. 

Rhea Williamson

I have gained over 15 years’ experience in the financial servicesindustry since leaving university. I have worked for a number of institutionsfrom banks to insurance companies, the most recent being Prudential FinancialPlanning. I completed my Diploma in Financial Planning in 2017.

Alex Cowell

With a degree in Economics and working in Financial Services since 2014, I have obtained both my Investment Advice Diploma from the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment and Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning from the Chartered Insurance Institute. Throughout my time at CHN, I have worked on a multitude of complex Investment, Pensions and Protection cases, helping to create bespoke solutions for both individuals and businesses.

Adam O'Melia

I have over 15 years’ experience in financial servicesand having previously worked as a Financial Adviser at The Private Office, Ijoined CHN in 2021. As an Adviser I am responsible for understanding myclients' financial situations and goals. This requires strategic financialthinking and planning expertise which I have developed through professionalexperience. My areas of expertise include cashflow modelling, protection,investments, retirement planning and inheritance tax planning. 

David Sharples

My career began with NatWest in 1981 where I spent 9 years undertaking various clerical duties and enhancing my overall banking knowledge. From there I became Assistant to the Chief Manager looking after corporate connection, before then running the Customer Services team in Harrogate. The next 10 years was spent in a personal banking role providing customers with a first-class service offering products most suited to their needs, before then moving to CHN.

Ishwarlal Lad

Working within financial services for a number of years from both an independent and retail banking perspective, I have a huge amount of experience and knowledge within this sector.
Areas of Expertise: Networking, tailored introductory solutions, lead generation.
Services for Individuals: Mortgages, protection, investments and pensions.
Services for Businesses: Director share purchase, pensions.

Michael Brooksbank

Having enjoyed 30 years in financial services I have provided a highly personal service to both private and corporate clients both locally and nationally. Areas of advice have included pensions, investment and protection as well as all round financial advice. As Business Development Consultant with CHN I will continue to be involved with clients working alongside CHN’s Financial Consultants to maintain existing relationships, ensuring they continue to receive sound professional financial advice.

Rebecca Nielson

I have worked solely in marketing and communication roles since graduating university with a degree in Marketing Management, I have gained a wealth of knowledge across various sectors, notably financial services. Having worked within the insurance industry as well as with mortgages and protection, I believe this experience will assist me in my role here at CHN and help me assist the company in reaching its goals.

Gemma Close

After finishing university and a brief spell as a corporate video editor, I began working in the hospitality industry. Here I gained valuable knowledge in administration procedures and customer service which I brought to CHN when I joined in April 2014. I now work in the finance department dealing with the day to day financials of the business.

Jonathan Gibson

Joining CHN in 2011 I have held various roles, including gathering information, producing reports and processing mortgages and protection applications. Responsible for the day to day administration requirements I ensured Pension, Investment and Protection submissions were dealt with in a timely manner.
My current role is Operations Manager. Responsible for smooth running and implementation of the businesses systems and facilities.

Karen Waite

With many years’ experience working in financial services, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise along the way. I was previously a financial consultant on the advisory side, in addition to training & development within the compliance arena.
Before joining CHN I worked for HBOS, Barclays, Lloyds, AXA Wealth and HSBC.

Emma Clegg

Joining CHN in 2012 as Receptionist, after 20 years’ experience working within the private sector, I have worked my way up through various support roles before moving into my current role as Paraplanner to Lee Clayton, covering all aspects of financial planning.

Deanda King

Before joining CHN as Business Support Manager I worked for an IFA practice for 6 years dealing mainly with investments & pensions – I have also been an office manager/PA to 2 directors. I have recently passed my Diploma in Financial Planning.

Nathan Raja

I joined CHN in June 2015 and have been working alongside Matthew in our Bingley Office since. I came straight to CHN following completion of my A-Levels and I am now working towards achieving my diploma in Financial Services. The majority of my tasks are administrative, however, in addition to this I also do investment research, speak with clients and liaise with providers.

Stephanie Brown

I was with Lloyds Banking Group for 25 years in various retail roles, but most of my career has been in commercial banking, both in the relationship support teams and area office. After accepting voluntary redundancy to spend more time with my two children and run our family business, I decided to restart my career with CHN and my current role is Business Support Manager to Richard Ramsden who is an Associate Mortgage and Protection Consultant.

Adam Firth

After graduating with a degree in Business with Finance Management at Northumbria University, I joined CHN in October 2018 as a Business Support Assistant. I am now working as a Business Support Manager for Graham Burton, learning from an experienced Financial Consultant whilst studying towards achieving a Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning. 

Olivia Jackson

I joined CHNin November 2017 as Business Support Assistant, my previous role was withMorrisons,

where Iinitially started working part-time whilst completing my A level’s, beforeprogressing to a

full-timeposition as an Administration and Cash Office Assistant. I am no stranger toworking in a financial

officeenvironment and look forward to progressing further with CHN as BusinessSupport Manager.

Shahzad Ali Butt

Laura Benson

I joined CHN in October 2020 providing support toSophie Thornhill. I have been working within financial services forapproximately 7 years, firstly in a Building Society and then for a FinancialNetwork in a customer service capacity. I am now currently studying towards myQCF4 qualification.

Sarah Bingham

Having worked over 30 years for the same firm of Chartered Accountants, specialising in the completion and filing of Self Assessment tax returns, I joined CHN in 2020 to become business support for my husband, Simon Bingham.

Eliot Wilkinson

I have worked in Investment Management since graduatingwith a degree in Business and Management, gaining a wealth of experience inportfolio management, investment operations, macroeconomic analysis, investmentresearch, compliance and corporate governance. Having completed the CFAInvestment Management Certificate and CISI Retail Advice and Planning exam, Iam currently studying towards the CISI Chartered Wealth Manager qualification.

Elizabeth Sheeran

Having over 15 years’ experience within this sector, I joined CHN in March 2010, and have undertaken various roles from Business Support Manager, to my current role as Compliance Support Manager.
Areas of Expertise: Wide ranging – SIPP/SSAS / Investment & Pensions / File Review / Compliance Support.

Susan Moss

Previously working for a Solicitors and an Accountancy firm, I joined the CHN team in March 2017.
Areas of Expertise: Client letters, dictations, liaising with providers.

Lauren Ellis

I spent 6 years working in retail, leading a team of 20. Having an interest in finance I sought a fresh challenge within the industry and am pleased to join the team at CHN Financial Consultancy and am looking forward to expanding my knowledge within this sector.
Areas of Expertise: Customer service, cost management and organisational skills.

Gurpreet Singh

After completing a degree in Accounting and Finance I have spent 5 years in the Financial Services industry and the last 2 years working for financial advisory firms. In April 2019 I joined CHN and now work as a Business Support Assistant to Sophie Thornhill. Currently working towards my CII Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning. I am looking forward to help the company achieve its goals.

Kathryn Ryan

With over 15 years’ experience working in a busy office environment I have worked in roles varying from secretary to receptionist to sales administrator. I have previously worked in the manufacturing industry and Corporate Finance. I joined CHN in December 2018 and I look forward to combining my experience and skills in my role as business support assistant.

Daniel Cook

Having worked in the Financial Services Industry since 2014, both in Compliance Administration and Paraplanning Administration roles, Ijoined CHN in April 2021 as a Business Support Assistant in Lee Clayton’s team.I enjoy the varied elements of the role, and bringing in my previous experienceto assist the team.

Beverley Murphy

Working in customer services for many years, I have managerial experience in the retail and dental industry. I joined CHN in April 2017 as Receptionist before being promoted in to my current position in 2018 as Compliance Support Assistant.
Area of Expertise: Managing conflicting priorities whilst delivering a first-class personal customer service experience in a busy working environment.

Kath Gambles

Working in the financial services industry for over 20 years, I have undertaken various administration roles, from Office Manager to Personal Assistant before joining CHN in March 2016.
Areas of Expertise: Investments and Pensions.

Francess Bell

I began my working life in retail before deciding to complete an apprenticeship in Business and Administration. Starting in January 2014 whilst working at Wrigleys Solicitors, I completed my Level 2 and 3 NVQ before moving to Addleshaw Goddard. I have recently returned to work after taking some time out to raise my daughter, and now work within the finance department.

Shannon Burton

I began my career with CHN in April 2021 as a Finance Administrator after working in Logistics recruitment the previous year to achieve my Business Management qualification, whilst working full time. I have worked in many roles from a student teacher at a Performing Arts School to also working part time in a bar whilst I completed my A-Levels. After discovering my interest for finance, I was delighted to join CHN and I look forward to progressing and expanding my knowledge in the Finance sector.

Claire Thornton

I joined CHN in October 2019 as their Receptionist, working within the Operations Team.  The role is busy, diverse and fun.  Having previously worked in various Customer Service roles within retail, insurance, telecoms, manufacturing and shipping  has helped me gain a wealth of transferable skills which I have brought to my new role here at CHN.  

Carol Astbury

Working in a building society for many years, I joined CHN back in March 2011. My role within the company includes general office administration and ensuring all files are entered accurately on to our back-office system.