GWM Global Partners has been designed to maximise the effectiveness of ongoing advice and fulfil new levels of expectation from internationally mobile clients, the company said.
Research by the international financial planning firm showed that a staggering 71% of expats feel the ongoing service they receive from their advisory firms has declined or even ceased over time, something the company believes is linked to an ‘all upfront’ remuneration model.
This can “often tend to foster an initial transactional relationship between client and adviser,” the company said.
Expat expectations
Mike Coady, Guardian WM’s chief commerical officer, said: “As the expectations of modern expats naturally continue to rise, the feedback we have received clearly shows many international IFA firms are failing to invest, adapt and improve.
“With a clear and transparent charging structure, relevant to the level of advice needed, clients should be able to select the service level they require rather than in some instances, paying over the odds for a service they simply do not need.
“We strongly believe our new propositions are comprehensive, fair and unique in the international adviser marketplace, and by harnessing the latest cutting edge online technology, GWM Global Partners can successfully deliver the highest levels of financial advice directly to expats at their convenience.”
Technology upgrade
Coady will oversee the rollout of an extensive upgrade in the company’s client relationship management systems.
He explained that there will be a full ‘client journey’ rebrand, client interactive investor portals and a secure mobile app, model portfolio management software and specifically designed and highly personalised touchpoints, such as online webinars through to its new active client care system.
Existing GWM clients will be on-boarded during an extensive 12-week rollout.
Gemma Frankland, who has been promoted to head of GWM Global Partners from the company’s Middle East flagship office in Dubai, will oversee a team of 15 advisers and associates who will provide the new service.
Frankland said: “GWM Global Partner’s key is understanding that the requirements of each client are unique, therefore, rather than trying to make a ‘one size fits all’ service model preferred by many firms, we have designed a range of services and touchpoints to meet the needs of all clients and budgets.
“Ultimately, we see ourselves as a partner in building and maintaining the wealth and security of our clients and I am extremely confident that GWM Global Partners will allow us to do this now with significantly greater efficiency.”
