Ross Liston
CEO M&G Wealth Advice
Ross is responsible for shaping and leading M&G’s wealth strategy for growth in the wealth advice market.
With nearly 30 years in financial services, Ross is passionate about the advice sector and the role of advice in society. He believes the Academy plays a critical part in developing a new wave of talent, while making the profession more sustainable for the future.
Matthew Ings
Head of Academy
Matthew is responsible for the growth and development of the M&G Wealth Advice Academy as it continues to grow to support more people transitioning into the financial advice profession. He's a Chartered Financial Planner, and Fellow of the PFS, with over 20 years wealth management experience across a range of roles including advising, training, and management.
Jack Kennedy
Recruitment manager
Jack is an experienced financial adviser and business owner, which enables him to understand what's required to be a successful candidate.
His role is to initiate conversations around what the Academy has to offer and the options for when you're qualified. He takes candidates through the recruitment process and is ever present through the Academy journey.
Provide a smooth and compliant onboarding experience for new advisers. They manage onboarding activities, client transfers, and authorisation updates, while also supporting candidates through early development and FCA approval. Their work helps advisers establish a strong foundation for delivering excellent client service.
Victoria Delargy
Adviser Operations Manager
"It’s inspiring to build early relationships with such a diverse group of individuals and watch them grow into successful financial advisers."
Career snapshot:
- 20+ years’ experience across applications, e-learning, and business transfers.
- Leads a team, using expertise to support growth and development..
Caitlin Crane
Applications Supervisor
"I’m passionate about supporting career growth and contributing to the success of new Academy members from diverse backgrounds."
Career snapshot:
- Strong operational background with experience in support and executive roles.
- Rapid career progression since joining and now leading the applications process.
Jacob Hosker
Operations Executive
“Supporting Academy applicants as they begin their financial advice journey is rewarding, especially within a collaborative team.”
Career snapshot:
- Transitioned from professional football to financial services.
- Focused on building a career in financial services.
Lawrence Addy
Operations Executive
“I love supporting people in their career journey, and being part of a skilled and passionate team makes it even more rewarding.”
Career snapshot:
- Solid operational experience in sales and administration.
- Passionate about financial services, now thriving in current role.
Manages all aspects of the Academy programme, from onboarding and exam re-sits to supporting candidates, as they become qualified financial advisers. They also serve as the main point of contact for general enquiries, ensuring consistent guidance throughout the journey.
Avril Dallas
Operations Manager
“Supporting students as they grow into impactful professionals is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do.”
Career snapshot:
- 25 + years’ experience with expertise in reporting, solutions, and adviser support.
- Skilled in managing large administrative teams and streamlining operational processes.
Nicola Carr
Operations Co-ordinator
“Helping delegates on their path to success is really fulfilling. I love seeing them overcome challenges”
Career snapshot:
- 24+ years with the business, including coordinating global HR training programmes and senior leadership events.
- Skilled in reporting, adviser support, and team operations.
Deliver structured learning across multiple stages of the adviser journey, combining technical and soft skills development. They design and lead training that supports candidates in achieving their qualifications and becoming confident, client-focused financial planning professionals.
Kenneth O’Donnell
Lead Training Manager
"I love seeing delegates grow in confidence and capability — it’s where real impact begins."
Career snapshot:
- Extensive experience in adviser development and regulatory training.
- Proven track record in strategic programme design and leadership development.
Brian Tiernan
Training Manager
"I love supporting our Academy advisers, especially when I hear how our work helps them succeed and make a real difference for their clients."
Career snapshot:
- Former Sales & Development Director at a leading Wealth Advice practice
- Extensive experience managing and delivering regulated advice training
Develop advisers as they progress through the Academy. They deliver training, observe client meetings, coach performance, and monitor key indicators to help advisers reach Competent Adviser Status. They support advisers from first client interactions through to ongoing development, ensuring excellent outcomes.
Stephanie Fox
Supervisor and Coach
“I get great satisfaction seeing the fast pace in which advisers develop and grow their business, throughout their Academy journey.”
Career snapshot:
- 25+ years’ experience in financial services as Adviser, Trainer, and Support Specialist.
- Proven track record in delivering customer outcomes and leading strategic change.
Diane Falconer
Supervisor and Coach
‘I enjoy working with individuals who are driven to grow, develop, and become the best version of themselves as financial advisers.”
Career snapshot:
- 25 + years of experience in financial advice, sales leadership and key project and change management roles.
- Proven ability in driving customer outcomes through strategic change projects.
Colin Greacen
Supervisor and Coach
"It’s incredibly satisfying to support new advisers and see their journey from beginners to successful business owners."
Career snapshot:
- Chartered Financial Planner with over 30 years’ experience advising clients.
- Specialist in adviser development, training and competence supervision.
Next steps
About us
We use all of our established business knowledge, experience and expertise to help our advisers.
Why should I join?
If you don’t already work within financial services, the Academy could be your foot in the door.