Support network key for dealer groups, award-winner says

Lifespan Financial Planning CEO Eugene Ardino was named Dealer Group Executive of the Year at the 2021 ifa Excellence Awards, which he attributed to being surrounded by capable staff and advisers, and achieving business growth despite challenges such as new education standards and increased competition due to a shrinking pool of advisers.

“We are lucky enough to enjoy loyalty from our existing adviser base, and I’m proud of the network we’ve been able to maintain and grow,” Mr Ardino told ifa.

The award recognises an individual chief executive, executive, or senior manager of an independent or independent-minded dealer group who has built the most successful business over the past calendar year based on growth and retention of advisers, and revenue and profitability.

Mr Ardino reflected on his award win ahead of the 2022 ifa Excellence Awards, which is designed to pinpoint professional development and innovation, and showcase individuals and groups who are propelling the financial advice industry.

Nominations and submissions have opened for this year’s awards, with entrants urged to submit an entry by Thursday, 8 September 2022.

Finalists will be announced on Thursday, 29 September.

Outlining his views on what defines a successful dealer group executive, Mr Ardino reiterated that it is about growing a robust network of advisers.

“Given the challenges thrown at us during the COVID-19 crisis, those of us who are still in business have to be really thankful for that, and for being a part of such a thriving network. It is an honour to lead that network.”

Winning the Dealer Group Executive of the Year award in 2021 raised the profile of Lifespan Financial Planning among advisers, who look at awards that licensees win, according to Mr Ardino.

“It’s really worthwhile being a part of the ifa Excellence Awards program because not only has it helped our growth and retention aspirations, it also gave our staff something to continue to aspire to,” he said.

Your company is bigger than you

In his submission last year, Mr Ardino included growth metrics around adviser numbers, revenue, and retention to demonstrate his achievements.

Addressing this year’s award entrants, he urged them to include testimonials to boost the quality of their submission and provide demonstrable proof of their achievements.

“Along with this, include any initiatives you’ve implemented as a licensee that has helped your adviser network and contributed to the growth of your practice,” Mr Ardino added.

He also encouraged executives to consider not only how their network of advisers have supported them, but how they have supported their adviser network and staff.

“Whether it is dealer group awards or executive awards, remember that an organisation is bigger than any one person so focusing on how you’ve helped others is critical,” he said.

Most importantly, Mr Ardino said award submissions offer entrants an opportunity to reflect on their achievements and successes.

“Don’t be afraid to be proud of your successes and celebrate it along the way,” he concluded.

Enter awards now

Nominations and submissions for the 2022 ifa Excellence Awards close on Thursday, 8 September.

To enter the awards, register your account through our secure awards platform and fill in the details of your submissions. When you’re happy with your submission, press save and lodge it.

Click here to submit an entry or nominate a worthy colleague and be rewarded for your tireless efforts and dedication to propelling the advice industry forward.

Click here for more information on the judging process.

For more information about the awards program, including categories, click here.

Click here to view the 2021 finalists and winners.