Meet our Advisory Team

When selecting an Independent Financial Adviser, it is important to establish that they are not only authorised but also independent, suitably qualified and experienced. We are confident that we fit these criteria and more.

We have four advisers including Sophie Smith who is a Chartered Financial Planner. All specialise in different areas but all have a comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of financial planning. In addition to our advisers, there is back-up from qualified and experienced administrators who ensure that there is always continuity of support and a point of contact.

Scott Gibbons - Director & Financial Adviser

I joined financial services in 1994 with the Wesleyan as a Home Services Representative. Whilst enjoying this role, I began to feel more and more uncomfortable with being able to advise only on one product. Recognising that I could do a better job for my clients by being independent, I left and started my career as an IFA. The highlight of my career to date was setting up Adanac in 2002 and since then watching it grow and become part of the business community in the South West.

Previously I was in the Royal Navy and served with the Royal Marines.

I have two beautiful daughters, Mary and Alice, and in my spare time, I try to keep fit and compete in Water Ski Racing at national level in the UK and Europe.

Sophie Smith AdvDipFA - Chartered Financial Planner

I am a Chartered Financial Planner and a Resolution Accredited Divorce Specialist with over 10 years’ experience in Financial Services. As a member of the Pensions and Divorce Team at Adanac and an Associate Member of Resolution, my work includes helping clients to understand their pension arrangements, implementing Pension Sharing Orders and preparing complex Pensions Reports.

I regularly work with family lawyers to help them and their clients to improve financial outcomes and to help divorcing couples to resolve financial issues, particularly with regard to pensions. I am often brought into joint meetings to act as a financial neutral.

I pride myself on my empathetic approach to my clients, always ensuring that the advice I give is tailored to their priorities, objectives and needs. My primary aim is to make what can often be a complicated and testing process as simple and stress-free as possible.

I live locally with my husband Steve, our son Louie and our dog Coco.

Matt Helyar DipPFS- Financial Adviser

I joined Adanac in January 2020 as an apprentice and successfully completed the scheme in June 2022. During this time I have gained the Diploma in Regulated Financial Planning and am currently halfway through the Advanced Diploma. My aim is then to work towards becoming Chartered.

I advise clients in many areas including wealth management, savings and investments, retirement planning and Inheritance Tax planning. I also work with family lawyers to provide Mortagage Capacity reports during the divorce process.

In my spare time I love to play and watch football or spend time with friends and family.

Dan Goddard DipPFS - Apprentice Financial Adviser

Having previously worked in the education sector, I joined Adanac in September 2021 on an apprenticeship programme. I am nearing the end of my apprenticeship having completed all my Regulated Financial Planning exams for my diploma. I am now studying for my Long Term Care exam.

When not at work I like to challenge myself physically and I am currently training for my second marathon. I enjoy playing football for a local team and socialising with friends.