No two IFA sales are ever the same. Each firm has its own people, priorities, and long-term goals — which is why a tailored approach to succession planning is essential.

Recently, IFA Acquisitions supported the sale of a Yorkshire-based financial advice firm with £55m Funds under Management. While achieving a strong valuation was important, the vendor’s priorities went far beyond the headline number.

Professional financial advisers in a modern office reviewing documents and charts, representing the sale and succession planning of an IFA business.

The Vendor’s Objectives

From the outset, the vendor was clear on what a successful outcome looked like:

  • Retention of two key employees, including a Trainee Financial Adviser and a Paraplanner
  • A share purchase structure, enabling the vendor to benefit from Business Asset Disposal Relief
  • An ongoing ambassadorial role for the vendor to support client continuity and a smooth transition

Balancing commercial value with people, tax efficiency, and legacy required a buyer who could meet every requirement — not just some of them.

Our Approach

By leveraging our established network of 250+ active acquirers, we were able to discreetly identify buyers whose acquisition strategy aligned closely with the vendor’s objectives.

Rather than forcing a deal structure, we focused on:

  • Cultural alignment
  • Long-term intentions for staff and clients
  • Flexibility around deal mechanics

This ensured conversations progressed with the right buyers from the start.

The Outcome

The final transaction delivered on every priority:

  • ✔️ Share purchase completed, securing tax efficiency for the vendor
  • ✔️ Both employees TUPE’d across, protecting continuity and future growth
  • ✔️ A strong 3.75x recurring income multiple achieved
  • ✔️ Vendor retained in an ambassadorial role, supporting client retention and trust

The Takeaway

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to selling an IFA business. Every firm has a different wishlist — and success lies in understanding those nuances and matching them with the right buyer.

With deep sector expertise, a broad acquirer network, and a genuinely bespoke approach, IFA Acquisitions helps sellers achieve outcomes that work commercially and personally.

If you’re considering selling your IFA business and want a tailored approach that aligns with your commercial, personal, and legacy goals, find out more about how we support vendors at every stage of the journey on our Looking to Sell page.

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