From Mortgage Adviser to Private Wealth Manager: Adam Humphries’ Journey across Continents

My career in financial services has taken me on an incredible journey across continents, allowing me to grow both personally and professionally. What began as a role as a Mortgage Adviser in the U.K. has evolved into an enriching career as a Private Wealth Manager in Malaysia. Along the way, I have had the privilege of working in diverse cultural environments, each contributing to my development and shaping my approach to financial planning.

Starting Out: The Foundations in the U.K.

After graduating, I launched my career as a Mortgage Adviser in the U.K. This role was my introduction to the financial services industry, offering a solid foundation in the housing market and the complexities of securing mortgages. One of the most valuable lessons I learned during this time was the importance of personalised financial advice. Every client’s situation was unique, and crafting solutions tailored to their specific needs was key to helping them achieve their goals.

A New Adventure: Moving to Malaysia

A few years into my career, I was presented with an exciting opportunity to relocate to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, as a coordinator and paraplanner. This move was more than just a career shift, it was a dive into a new world of culture, cuisine, and climate. Malaysia's vibrant diversity, with its mix of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other communities, was both professionally stimulating and personally fulfilling. The experience expanded my horizons, sparking a deep love for travel and an appreciation for immersing myself in different cultures.

Returning to the U.K.: Advancing My Expertise

After nearly six years in Malaysia, I felt the need to deepen my financial knowledge. Returning to the U.K., I dedicated myself to furthering my education, ultimately earning a Diploma in Financial Planning (APFS) from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). This period of intense study was challenging but incredibly rewarding. The new skills and expertise I acquired equipped me to offer more comprehensive financial advice and prepared me for the next stage of my career.

Expanding Horizons: A Move to France

With my diploma in hand, I took on a new challenge, a paraplanning role with Blevins Franks Wealth Management in the South of France. This role allowed me to experience yet another culture, this time in Europe, working for the largest expatriate firm on the continent. My time in France was invaluable, not only for the professional experience it provided but also for the deeper understanding it gave me of the importance of cultural context in financial planning.

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Returning to the U.K.: A New Role and Family Ties

After several years in France, I decided to return to the U.K. as I was chosen to participate in the St James Place Academy, where I transitioned into the role of a Financial Adviser with St James Place, which manages assets of over 160m, for over 650,000 clients. Being back home allowed me to reconnect with my family, who own a Christmas tree farm. Helping out on the farm, especially during the festive season, brought a sense of balance and fulfilment to my life that complemented my professional responsibilities. It was a time of grounding, where I could combine my career with the joy of family and tradition.

Coming Full Circle: Back to Malaysia

Despite the satisfaction I found in the U.K., the memories of my time in Malaysia always lingered. When the opportunity arose to return to Kuala Lumpur as a Private Wealth Manager for Melbourne Capital Group, I seized it without hesitation. Malaysia offers so much that I appreciate, a lower cost of living, a warm climate, rich cultural diversity, and a relaxed lifestyle. The work-life balance in Malaysia, coupled with its beautiful landscapes, made it an ideal place for both personal and professional growth.

This journey has been one of continuous learning, exploration, and growth. Every step has shaped who I am today, a financial professional with a global perspective, dedicated to helping clients achieve their financial goals while understanding the cultural and personal contexts that influence their decisions. As I continue my career in Malaysia, I look forward to the new experiences and challenges that lie ahead, knowing that each one will contribute to my ongoing journey in the world of financial services.

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