The company's milestone anniversary has been marked with two celebrations – an afternoon tea for clients on 15 June and a networking event for business contacts on 19 June – bringing together the people who have supported Kingsfleet's journey from startup to multi-award-winning firm.
A philosophy rooted in learning
"When Kingsfleet began, our vision was clear – to put education, integrity and people at the centre of financial planning," says Colin, the firm's founder and managing director. "Fifteen years on, that philosophy is stronger than ever."
The name choice wasn't arbitrary either. "We're named after my primary school, so education has always been central to who we are and what we do," Colin explains. This ethos has driven the firm's investment in staff development, supporting ongoing training and qualifications to deliver the best service to clients.
The approach has paid dividends. Kingsfleet has featured in the New Model Adviser Top 100 for nine consecutive years and collected a string of prestigious awards, including Ethical Financial Services Provider of the Year and Best Charity Partnership of the Year at the Money Age Awards 2024.
Growing with purpose
What sets Kingsfleet apart in an increasingly competitive market is its commitment to values-driven growth. The firm achieved B Corp certification in 2022, reflecting its focus on being "more than just about making profit, but to focus on being a firm with integrity."
This philosophy extends to how clients invest their money. "We're seeing more clients invest with a purpose – to avoid harm to people or the planet, which aligns with our B Corp status," Colin notes.
The firm has also embraced technological advances to make financial planning more accessible. "Instead of complex spreadsheets full of numbers, we use powerful visual graphs that are easy to understand – giving clients the clarity and confidence to take control of their financial future."
Organic growth over acquisitions
After 15 years in business, Colin's key learning is refreshingly straightforward: "Business is inherently simple, but it can often be made to feel more complicated than it needs to be. If you agree to do a job, set a fair price, and deliver on that, then you'll be recommended to others."
This philosophy has driven completely organic growth – no acquisitions, no bought client lists, just recommendations from satisfied customers.
Looking ahead
The next 15 years will see more of the same measured approach. "We want to continue to grow, but organically – not through acquisitions," Colin says. "That means growing the skills within the team and adding new people as we go."
Part of this growth includes finding new premises somewhere in Suffolk, as the firm looks to expand its footprint while maintaining its community focus. The firm has been a consistent supporter of local causes, from the Felixstowe Book Festival to St Elizabeth Hospice's Big Hoot Art Trail.
The bottom line
Colin's reflection on the anniversary celebrations captures the essence of Kingsfleet's success: "Our growth has only been possible because of our brilliant team and the wonderful clients who trust us to guide them."
In an industry often criticised for putting profits before people, Kingsfleet's 15-year journey demonstrates that doing the right thing – and never stopping learning – remains the most sustainable path to success.
