The recent IFP conference, an event for us all to be proud of, marked the first year of my Presidency which has just flown by. I have experienced so much more than I would have imagined only a year ago as I explained to delegates in my conference speech.
So much work goes on behind the scenes to make it the success that it is and it is a credit to the team at the IFP that things run so smoothly. As well as the organisers, there are lots of other people involved in the event, particularly the speakers, the events committee and those chairing meetings. Our sponsors also have a big role to play in the events, both financially and from a learning perspective as well as the creative stands that keep us so entertained! This year's lead sponsors Axa Wealth and Architas did a particularly great job I thought. However, what makes the event such a success through its unique and fantastic atmosphere is you – the IFP members. It was great to see record numbers of delegates at Celtic Manor and this is a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved who helped to make it so special. I hope that you found it as valuable as I did. The atmosphere really is something special, and the enthusiasm that everyone has to share ideas and pick up tips on how we can do our jobs even better never fails to amaze me.
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Many of you will also have met up with Nick Cann at conference. While we missed him participating in his usual manner, it was wonderful to see him there enjoying the buzz, sharing the experience with us from the other side of the stage – and in the bar too! He's made such great He's made such great progress over the past six months since his illness which reminds us all what a truly remarkable and special person he is. However, I must say a big "well done" to Steve Gazzard who I thought did a fine job as conference MC.
With so many of us still on a high and enthused after conference, it's a good time to keep the momentum going and plan for Financial Planning Week next month. Every year the campaign gains a little more traction, more press coverage and greater member involvement but there is still a long way to go. With your help this year we really hope we can bring Financial Planning to even more members of the public and make the most of our time in the media spotlight. I'd encourage you all to get involved in some way but if you need some inspiration just email FPWeek@ financialplanning.org.uk. If we can open our doors to offer free financial surgeries, maybe set up a stand in local shopping centres, contact local newspapers and magazines or use social media we can create "noise" that people will find it hard to avoid. Financial Planning Week is there to promote us and what we do. Let's use it effectively.