Clarion Wealth Planning has announced that its founder, Ron Walker, has sold 60% of his shareholding to his company management team.

The financial planning firm, which was founded by Walker in 1985, will transition to management ownership following the deal.

Since its inception, Clarion has been family-owned, with Walker and other members of the Walker family owning shares.

However, the management team has bought 60% of the shares as the firm enters a transition period which will see Walker remain for at least five more years, while chairman, Keith Thompson, will also remain for the foreseeable future.

This move means the business will remain independently managed and will not be absorbed by a consolidator.

Walker said: “My goal was to build a financial planning firm that was commercially successful but compassionate and holistic, and I believe that with the help of my fantastic team, that goal has been achieved. Many of our clients have worked with us across multiple decades and multiple generations, and we’re honoured to have been trusted by so many for so long.

“Going forward, Clarion will remain in the hands of those who have played an integral role in growing and nurturing the business into what it is today.”

The purchasing management team consists of three directors in John Winstanley, Adam Wareing, and Matt Sherratt, while a fourth director, Alistair Cartwright, is set to join the board soon.

Winstanley added: “Our commitment to delivering the highest level of service remains unchanged, and Ron will continue to work with Clarion over the next five years to ensure a smooth and seamless transition.”

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