Wealth manager Raymond James invests in Newcastle with branch opening

A wealth management firm says it looking forward to “supporting the region’s booming and supportive community of entrepreneurs and organisations” following an office opening.

Raymond James has cut the ribbon on a Newcastle branch.

Based in Newcastle Building Society’s former headquarters, it is led by principal Gary Fawcett alongside wealth managers James Carrick and Rob Brotherton.

Providing investment and financial planning services to individuals, families, business owners, trusts and charities, the office covers the entire North East, as well as the Scottish Borders, Lake District and North Yorkshire.

Gary, who began his financial career with Wise Speke (later bought by Brewin Dolphin) in 1998 on a work placement during university, before spending more than 20 years with the firm, says he is excited by Raymond James’ potential.

He said: “With business booming in and around the North East, this is a perfect opportunity to set up a branch focused on delivering best-in-class financial advice to help drive further investment and growth in the region.

“The North East has had its challenges in recent years, but the opportunity for the area, business and people is huge.

“The region has a culture rooted in resilience and evolution, and this permeates into business.

“One of the main priorities for me has always been to help facilitate business connections through my work, and given the branch’s central location, I am confident this is something we can achieve in the region through Raymond James.

“I share Raymond James’ ethos of placing clients first, giving them personalised solutions and direct access to experienced professionals.

“We know that in a constantly evolving business landscape, clients value honesty, trust, service and expertise – but at a fair price point, above all else – and that is what we are setting out to provide.”

Jason Cherriman, Raymond James’ senior business development manager, added: “Gary is a talented and experienced wealth manager, with a strong reputation in the local business community.

“He has ambitious plans for the new branch and, with James and Rob alongside him, we have no doubt the branch will provide a valuable service to the area and beyond.”