Blackfinch Group has appointed Ryan Hughes as Executive Business Development Manager at Blackfinch Asset Management, strengthening adviser support as more financial planning firms look for outsourced portfolio solutions that fit their advice process and service model.
Ryan will help drive growth of Blackfinch Asset Management’s Tailored Portfolio Service (TPS) and Managed Portfolio Service (MPS) by working closely with financial planning firms across Wales, the Cotswolds and the South-West of England. His experience will help advisers with adoption, ongoing servicing and practical day-to-day support.
Ryan brings more than 20 years’ experience across financial services - most recently he served as Head of Business Development at Walker Crips Investment Management where he supported advisers with bespoke portfolio construction, structured investments and decumulation strategies. He began his career in the commodity markets, before moving into asset management distribution in 2012. At Rowan Dartington, he played a key role in building and growing its discretionary fund management distribution and later supported the successful integration of the business into St. James’s Place.
Alongside his distribution career, Ryan also founded Play-Ex Sports, a digital platform created to help sports professionals access key support services. The business went on to support more than 600 sports professionals across the UK, reflecting Ryan’s entrepreneurial mindset and his ability to build propositions that solve real problems.
Mark Keogh, Head of Asset Management Distribution at Blackfinch, said: “Ryan is a strong addition to the team, and his experience will make an immediate difference. At Blackfinch we focus on providing a first-class service to advisers. With the continued growth of our tailored portfolio solutions, Ryan's experience and adviser-first mindset will help us further support planning firms across the region with the practical, day to day help that makes a real difference.”
Ryan Hughes, Executive Business Development Manager at Blackfinch Asset Management, added: “I’m excited to join Blackfinch at such an important stage in its growth. I’ve spent my career building adviser-focused propositions, and I’m passionate about helping advisers solve the day-to-day challenges that come with delivering great outcomes for clients. Blackfinch has a clear and ambitious journey ahead, and I’m excited to help drive it forward.”
Ryan’s appointment is the latest step in Blackfinch’s continued growth as the firm invests in its people, proposition and long-term partnerships with advisers. With the MPS continuing to develop and the TPS gaining even greater traction as firms seek greater oversight and flexibility, Blackfinch is continuing to build real momentum in an increasingly competitive market.
As the team expands, the focus remains on providing advisers with the practical support, consistent service and investment solutions they need to deliver better client outcomes.
