Advice Team
Phil Giles - Director & Senior Adviser
“I joined ECFS in October 2018 and became a Director of the firm in 2019.
“Having worked in financial services now for 40 years, I believe that there has never been a more important time for clients to receive the benefit of face to face, honest and independent advice. I hope that my wealth of experience and knowledge will help clients make the best decisions in order to grow, enhance and protect their wealth over time for themselves and their loved ones.”
“ I am married to Nicola, a primary school teacher in Chelmsford, have 4 wonderful grown-up children and, at the last count, four beautiful grandsons!
“ I have a passion for live music, film and theatre and a keen interest in family genealogy.”
“After spending over 30 years within a large banking group, I am delighted to be able bring this experience to a smaller firm and looking forward to supporting the business and clients achieve their aspirations.”
Gary Bennett - Director, Business Management
Gary has over 30 years of experience in banking and financial planning, supporting staff and clients of the NatWest Group, which includes the prestigious Coutts & Co and Adam Private Banks.
Prior to joining ECFS in February 2021, his most recent role was in Wealth & Investment Management at Coutts helping the bank met their regulatory obligations and advisors deliver the best possible investment advice to their clients. He has also led several financial planning teams and for a period worked within the training and development team.
Professionally, Gary is a qualified Chartered Financial Planner. Outside of work he is married, with two children at university and enjoys playing golf.
Kevin Wheatland - IFA
“I love engaging with my clients and working together to achieve their goals.
“Outside of work I still like to play football when I can and more recently, I have taken up running. I have been lucky enough to run in the last two London Marathons.
“I have 3 children, all boys, who keep me busy when I am not working.”
“I joined ECFS and the team in January 2023 as a Financial Adviser. I have worked in financial services for over 15 years and held many varied positions within the industry, I feel that I am well equipped to assist most clients in any situation where they may need help or guidance with financial matters.
“I currently hold Level 4 Diploma in Financial Planning. I also have experience advising on long term care, equity release and mortgages.”
Clare van Belkum - IFA
“I welcome the opportunity to use the experience gained from relationship banking to assist clients with realising their financial ambitions..”
Clare joined ECFS in June 2017 and holds CISI’s Level 4 Diploma in Investment Advice (Financial Planning & Advice).
Clare has a wealth of financial services experience working with clients in both retail and business banking, having spent 25 years with NatWest.
Clare welcomes the opportunity to assist clients with realising their ambitions through financial planning.
Suresh Sreedharan - Senior IFA
“I recently joined ECFS in June 2022 as a Senior Independent Financial Adviser and have over 22 years experience within Financial Services from initially advising on Mortgages, right through to full Estate Planning, Equity Release and Trusts as well as all the other aspects of Financial Planning. I am looking forward to passing on my expertise, knowledge and experience to both the team and our clients helping them to achieve their financial goals.”
“I am married with two grown up children and one teenager and have a keen interest in cars, both classic and modern. I love watching football and enjoy socialising with my friends and family.”