Scroll

Meet Ryan Richards: our new team member

Read more
Last updated: December 2, 2025

We were delighted to welcome Ryan to the Stephen Eve Financial Planning team in November.

With over eight years of experience in the financial services industry, Ryan brings a strong background gained from working with both boutique advisory firms and large national organisations. His depth of knowledge and meticulous approach make him a fantastic addition to our growing team.

We always think it’s nice to get to know the people behind the emails and advice, so Ryan has taken part in a short Q&A to share more about himself and his journey so far.

Tell us a bit about your background, how did you get to where you are now professionally?  

My strong suits have always been maths and business, so I fell into financial services after looking for a role that combined the two. I began in administration back in 2017, moving to a national firm after one year.

After working in a variety of roles, I became a Paraplanner just over two years ago — and it has easily been my favourite position so far. The technical and intellectually-engaging nature of the work has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to take great pride in the quality of service I provide to clients. I also recently relocated to Nottingham, having spent most of my life living in different parts of Derbyshire.

Why did you choose Stephen Eve Financial Planning? 

Firstly, they were recommended by a close friend who has known several members of the team for some time. Their positive impression of the people and culture immediately appealed to me, as the right team environment is something I value highly. During the interview process, I also gained a strong understanding of how the business operates, its proposition, and its approach to client service — all of which align perfectly with the type of organisation I wanted to be part of.

What would you like to achieve in your new role with us? 

Overall, my goal is to continue improving in every aspect of my role — enhancing my technical knowledge and ensuring that my work consistently serves the best interests of our clients. I also strive to make sure the advice we provide is always compliant, appropriate, and of the highest standard.

Doing my job to a high standard and with integrity is what I find most rewarding.

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work? 

I’ve picked up many lessons from different people over the years, but I would also say that I have influenced myself a lot, too. As I’ve gained experience, I’ve learned to adjust how I work and what I prefer to focus on. That said, I also took a lot from my previous team — they taught me the value of staying relaxed under pressure and how to prioritise cases based on what’s most urgent.

Tell us a work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of? 

I was commended in my last role for an all time output of case completion whilst ensuring my work was (as always) compliant.  However, though output is important, the accomplishments that mean most to me are individual client cases.

That could be anything from finding a niche product tailored to a client’s specific needs, to helping resolve a challenging financial situation, or helping a client who may be struggling with their health.

Can you give us a bit of an insight into your life outside of work? What are your interests?  

I’m a devoted Manchester United fan (sorry in advance!), following in the footsteps of my late father. The gym has become more of a hobby than a lifestyle for me lately, and I mainly focus on heavy lifting and compound movements — strength training is definitely my favourite. I also love spending quality time with friends and family, whether that’s catching up at home, going out for food (I am the opposite of a fussy eater!), or enjoying a few drinks when the occasion calls for it.

One thing you've learned in the past year: either professionally or personally!  

Not sure I can narrow it down to one, but I would say the people that you spend time with, personally and professionally, are what make and break your life. They are what influence you, teach you, help you during tough times and celebrate with you during the good ones. Growing up, year by year, this becomes more clear to me, hence I am particular about relationships and grateful for the ones I do have, and intend to build on.

Now for the fun bit... Ryan’s faves: 

  • Food - Steak, preferably a ribeye cut, medium-rare served with thick peppercorn sauce
  • Drink - Alcoholic: Lager & Espresso Martinis. Non-Alcoholic: Black Coffee/Espresso (shock), Cream Soda, or ice-cold water
  • Hobby - Powerlifting/Strength Training
  • Sports Team - Manchester United
  • Country to visit - Portugal
  • Music - I don't have a favourite genre, to be honest. I wouldn't listen to heavy metal, but get on with everything else. Very partial to 70/80/90s rock, too!
  • Film - House M.D. and also The Sopranos

We’re thrilled to have Ryan on board at Stephen Eve and look forward to the valuable experience and insight he brings to the team. As he gets to know more of our clients and professional connections, we’re confident they’ll quickly see what a great addition he is.

As always, if you have any questions about the Stephen Eve team and how we can help you, send us an email or pick up the phone.

menucross-circlearrow-down-circlearrow-right-circle