FINANCE
Foundations of Trust, Future of Vision: Belgrave’ s Leadership Transition
Belgrave Asset Management, a respected name in bespoke financial planning and investment advice, has announced a significant milestone in its 28-year history.
Gemma Watson, formerly Director of Financial Planning, has successfully completed a management buy-out, becoming the new majority owner of the Bath based business, located on Charles Street.
Founded by Mike Smith, who built the business from one client to over 320, Belgrave has long been known for its personal, client-first approach. Mike now serves as Director and Chairman, continuing to support the company’ s values and legacy. While he remains involved in the business, he is now enjoying taking a step back from day-to-day management, allowing the new leadership team to shape Belgrave’ s next chapter. He is still very much active within the business and continues to meet with Belgrave’ s longstanding clients.
“ Being part of building and shaping this business has been incredibly rewarding. I’ m proud of what we’ ve achieved and couldn’ t be happier with how the MBO has gone. With Gemma taking the reins as Managing Director, I know the business is set for an exciting future,” said Mike.
Under Mike’ s leadership, Belgrave became a trusted partner to private clients, charities, and Trusts across the region.
This transition marks not only a change in ownership but also a new leadership structure. Gemma is now the majority shareholder, joined by fellow shareholders Donna Parfitt and Mike Smith. Together, they lead a team with over 100 years of combined experience in the financial services industry.
The company is now led entirely by a team of highly experienced women, which is a rare and progressive move in the traditionally male dominated financial services sector. Gemma brings more than two decades of expertise across pensions, Self Invested Personal Pensions( SIPPs), Small Self-Administered Schemes( SASSs), and retirement planning. Her vision for Belgrave is rooted in continuity, innovation, and a deep commitment to personalised service.
“ I’ m incredibly proud to lead Belgrave into its next phase,” said Gemma.“ We have a talented, dedicated team who bring not only technical excellence but also a genuine passion for helping clients achieve financial clarity and confidence.”
The leadership team includes:
• Maria Clifton, Head of Tax & Estate Planning – specialising in holistic financial planning with emphasis on tax planning and trusts. Maria joined Belgrave in 2015.
• Donna Parfitt, Operations Manager – with Belgrave since 2001, overseeing company finances and working closely with Gemma and Mike to help review business operations and strategies.
• Lisa Stevenson, Adviser Support – coordinating client services and ensuring seamless delivery, with seven years at the firm.
• Jennifer Davis, Financial Analyst & Business Development – responsible for investment research, risk profiling, portfolio management and more recently business development. Jennifer has been with Belgrave since 2007.
• Natasha Potter, Office Manager – known for her clientfirst approach and operational insight since joining in 2008. Natasha combines her in-depth knowledge of Belgrave’ s services with a strong focus on streamlining systems and procedures to enhance the overall client experience. The team is made up of long-standing employees,
“ Together, they lead a team with over 100 years of combined experience in the financial services industry”
reflecting Belgrave’ s culture of loyalty, depth of knowledge, and continuity. Donna is the longest-serving member, celebrating 25 years with the firm.
While the leadership is now female led, Belgrave’ s focus remains firmly on expertise, integrity, and client-first service. Clients are always greeted by name, not number- a hallmark of Belgrave’ s ethos.
“ We’ re proud to be building on the strong foundations laid by Mike,” added Gemma.“ Our collaborative spirit and depth of knowledge are what make Belgrave truly unique.”
For more info: www. belgraveifa. co. uk
THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2025 13