Investment management

Offering you discretionary services including bespoke and model portfolios, advisory managed services and advisory dealing services

What we offer

We offer a range of options depending on how much you would like to be involved in the management of your portfolio. You can:

  • make all the decisions yourself and simply instruct us when you’re ready to do so;
  • access our expert advice before making your decisions; or
  • entrust our investment team to make decisions for you in line with your aims and risk appetite.


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Discretionary services

What is a discretionary service?
We will manage your portfolio for you on a day-to-day basis to achieve your aims whilst taking your risk appetite into account. You don’t have to make the decisions on your portfolio as your investment manager will do it for you.

Why use a discretionary service?
Normally, you’ll do this if you wish to invest in financial instruments (such as shares and bonds) but you are busy and don’t have time to monitor financial markets, or if you prefer to entrust your investments to be looked after by an investment manager.

Either way, you can view your portfolio via our Client Portal at any time. We also produce quarterly Client Packs that report on the performance of your portfolio.

What kinds of discretionary services do we offer?
We offer you two types of discretionary service: bespoke or a model portfolio.

‘Bespoke’ portfolio
A bespoke portfolio is exactly what it sounds like: bespoke to you. It is constructed according to your specific needs, financial goals and restrictions. For example, if you wish to have a portfolio free from tobacco or oil and gas stocks, we can create that for you.

We review your aims and risk tolerance at least annually, making sure our approach still suits your needs.

Model portfolio
Model portfolios are an ‘off-the-shelf’ investment product. Unlike a bespoke portfolio, which is constructed around you, these models are created by a team of investment managers according to different risk levels (low to high risk) and investment objectives (income generating or capital growth). You will then be matched to a suitable model according to your risk preference and investment objectives. These models offer an affordable and efficient way to get into investing.

As with a bespoke portfolio, we manage the day-to-day needs of the portfolio but keep you updated quarterly. You will also have an assigned investment manager.

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Advisory managed services

What is an advisory managed service?
An advisory managed portfolio is based on a partnership between you and your investment manager. You control the portfolio and have the final say, but your investment manager monitors your portfolio and will contact you with recommendations.

Why use an advisory managed service?
Normally, you’ll do this if you wish to have an investment professional oversee your account but you also wish to keep control of it. For example, you may prefer to make the final decisions yourself.

Advisory dealing services

What is an advisory dealing service?
Unlike the advisory managed service, with our advisory dealing service we do not actively manage your portfolio, but only give you advice when you ask for it. You maintain ultimate control of your portfolio. This means maintaining the suitability and overall risk exposure is your responsibility.

Why use an advisory dealing service?
Normally, you'll do this if you’re familiar with investing in financial instruments (such as shares and bonds) and you want to make all your own decisions. However, you may also wish to have an investment manager to discuss your investment ideas and to place your investment orders.

Inheritance Tax (IHT) Relief Portfolio

If you’re going to leave an inheritance, the 40% tax* on all assets above the HMRC threshold can seem like a burden. Our IHT Relief Portfolio has been designed for people who are concerned that Inheritance Tax may harm future generations of their family.

‍The UK government has introduced many tax benefits to encourage investment. However, the main question at the heart of investing to reduce Inheritance Tax is, what if tax rules change in the future? Only by devoting time to careful and consistent analysis can a profitable and suitable IHT portfolio be developed. At Walker Crips, the investment management team strongly believes that not overpaying for stock is the main step towards increasing the chance of long-term returns.

Next steps for you
‍If you would like to learn more about how we can help you invest in the potential of AIM listed companies, please call your contact at Walker Crips or contact the IHT Relief team on 01904 544 326 or york.aim@wcgplc.co.uk.

IHT Relief Portfolio brochure
IHT Relief Portfolio factsheet

* Tax rates and legislation may change in the future. Your inheritance allowance and the value of any tax reliefs are subject to personal circumstances. Please seek independent tax advice before investing.

Gilt Portfolio Service (GPS)

If you’re seeking returns greater than you would receive on cash sitting in the bank, our Gilt Portfolio Service (GPS) could be a good option for you; especially if you fall into a higher tax bracket.**

‍This managed portfolio service has been carefully designed to cater to the needs of higher or additional rate taxpayers, aiming to capitalise on the unique opportunities presented by a changing interest rates environment.

Find out more
To invest in our Gilt Portfolio Service or to find out more information please contact us on 020 3100 8100 or private.client@wcgplc.co.uk.

Gilt Portfolio Service brochure

** Tax rates and legislation may change in the future. Please seek independent tax advice before investing.

Senior Investment Management Team

Wesley joined the Walker Crips Group in 1997 and has 25 years of investment experience. He is responsible for developing the business strategy of the Private Client Department at Walker Crips. Wesley is a Chartered Fellow of the Securities Institute and holds a Level 6 Certificate in Private Client Investment Advice and Management. Wesley also looks after client portfolios and specialises in bespoke and model portfolio investment management.

Chris is Head of Direct Equities and specialises in bespoke portfolio management. He manages portfolios on behalf of a wide array of clients including individuals, SIPPs, trusts and charities. Chris graduated in Economics from the University of Kent and is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (FCSI). He holds the Securities Diploma and Investment Advice Certificate from the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment, and the Investment Management Certificate from CFA UK.

Rachel joined Walker Crips in 2019. Rachel has a background of managing various types of portfolios, including bespoke, model and an award-winning AIM portfolio service. Rachel has an excellent grasp of direct and collective investments and focuses on ensuring that clients receive the best possible service. Rachel has attained the CISI Level 7 Chartered Wealth Manager Qualification and is a member of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment.

Shane manages portfolios for a range of clients. He has 12 years of investment experience, previously managing a range of discretionary model portfolios as Head of Investment at an Independent Financial Advice firm. Shane joined the industry after obtaining a first-class honours degree in International Financial Services. He holds the CISI Level 7 Chartered Wealth Manager qualification and is a fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment. Shane has been named a UK Top 30 Under 30 Wealth Manager by Citywire and was listed in their UK Top 100. In 2024, he was named one of the PAM NextGen Leaders in the private client wealth management industry.

Stephanie has worked in financial services for 20 years in various roles and has been at Walker Crips since 2017, first working for Walker Crips Pensions and then transferring to Walker Crips Investment Management. Stephanie has previously worked at Aviva, HSBC, Barclays and St James's Place. She has always had a keen interest in investment management and enjoys working with customers and third parties alike.

Investment Managers

Previously a professional musician, Peter has retrained since 2021 and gained qualifications through the Chartered Institute of Securities & Investment ranging from Wealth Management, Islamic Finance and the Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma (“IAD”). He is currently working to attain the Chartered Wealth Manager qualification. Peter has also served as Vice President of the Birmingham & West Midlands branch of the CISI. In this role, he was actively involved in organising networking and educational events for the Young Professionals Network and the broader financial professional community.

Jonathan has worked in the investment management sector for 35 years, having started as a junior dealer on the Birmingham Stock Exchange trading floor. Now in his eighth year with Walker Crips Investment Management, Jonathan focuses on clients seeking managed or advisory dealing portfolio services. Jonathan’s clients include charities and family trusts in addition to private individuals, with many of whom he has long-term relations.

Clive has spent his whole career working in the investment management industry. He was instrumental in opening the Walker Crips office in Birmingham in 2013. Clive manages investment portfolios for a wide range of investors, with whom he has built up long-term relationships, helping them meet their financial objectives. He was attracted to Walker Crips by its tradition of building and maintaining close client relationships combined with the use of modern technology.

Having started his career in 1986, just before “Big Bang” and the 1987 Stock Market Crash, John is a highly experienced broker. An ex-floor trader from the London Traded Options Market, as well as previously working for County Natwest, Natwest Stockbrokers, Durlacher and Charles Stanley, he now looks after a loyal client base including high net worth private clients, corporates and charities. John builds diversified client portfolios using individual shares, investment trusts and exchange-traded funds as well as using derivatives to enhance income.

Sally has 20 years of experience in financial services, having commenced her career in 2000. She began as a dealer before qualifying as an investment manager. Sally then spent seven years working as a private banker with Barclays Wealth. This diverse background has equipped her with valuable insights into the broader financial services landscape. Sally has a passion for managing bespoke portfolios and building lasting client relationships. She is a Chartered Wealth Manager and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (FCSI).

Edward joined Walker Crips in 2013 and has 30 years’ experience in the industry. He began his career in Liverpool before moving to Inverness. For most of his career he has specialised in discretionary Portfolio Management, offering his services not only in Scotland but throughout the UK. Edward offers a highly personalised service to his clients.

Sue joined Walker Crips in April 2013. She began her career with a well-known life company before taking time out to work in the Blood Transfusion Service and the education sector. Sue was then invited to return to financial services where she reestablished her roots. Although her background was in holistic wealth management, Sue now focuses solely on portfolio management, specialising in managing discretionary accounts for her clients. Sue offers a bespoke and personal service to her clients and her motto is “the clients come first”.

Simon specialises in bespoke portfolio management. He manages portfolios on behalf of a wide array of clients including individuals, trusts, charities and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs). Simon takes care to ensure that the underlying investor aims are fully appreciated and reflected in the style of portfolio constructed. He has been part of the Private Client team at Walker Crips since 2004, having passed his stockbroking exams in 1999. Simon is a member of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment, holding the Chartered Fellow (FCSI) designation.

Chris has been working with a wide range of clients in the Yorkshire area and beyond for over a decade; managing portfolios for individuals and their families, pensions, trusts, companies and charities. Chris also co-manages the Walker Crips IHT Portfolio Service. Chris is a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (FCSI) and is qualified as a Chartered Wealth Manager, a designation awarded by the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment to recognise senior members in the retail sector at the peak of their profession.

Edward re-joined Walker Crips in 2018 after previously working as an intern in the Investment Management Department. He is a University of York graduate with a BA (Hons) in Politics and has successfully completed the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment Level 4 Investment Advice Diploma. He is a proponent of “Business Perspective Investing”, supports both the Model Portfolio Service and the Walker Crips IHT Service, and assists with the management of discretionary and advisory client accounts.

Nigel joined Walker Crips in 1992 and became an Investment Director in 1996. He became a member of the Stock Exchange (now the CISI) in 1990. With 40 years’ experience, he holds the Advanced Diploma in Financial Planning (APFS) and Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investments (FCSI) qualifications.

Simon joined Walker Crips in September 2013 for a one-year apprentice programme. On completion, he moved to the Northampton office and also spends time in the Birmingham office, where he works in the Investment Management team managing and maintaining client portfolios. Simon’s emphasis is on building long-term relationships with his clients, giving them a trusted source of advice and investment solutions to help achieve their financial goals. Simon is a Chartered Member of the CISI (Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment).

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