Fund Your Retirement Podcast

ILT016 Andy Walters on Building Quartix: Subscription Model, Growth Choices, and AIM Listing

In this episode, Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard interview Andy Walters, founder and Chief Executive of Quartix PLC. Andy explains his shift from selling high-value capital equipment to building a recurring revenue business, leading to the launch of Quartix in 2001. He shares how he identified a gap in the market and developed a browser-based vehicle tracking system. They discuss the key decisions behind Quartix's growth, including early technology choices, direct marketing, and international expansion—particularly into France after the 2008 financial crisis. Andy also reflects on the slower progress in the US, the benefits of AIM, and lessons in governance, culture, and founder succession. The episode closes with his views on using AI in marketing and software, and the importance of controlling costs while investing in effective sales and marketing. Timestamps: 00:31 Meet Andy Walters 01:06 Early Entrepreneurial Spark 01:50 Career Path to Schlumberger 02:59 Telecoms Work and Market Shift 04:35 Running a Small Company 06:08 Founding Quartix and Big Idea 08:37 Recurring Revenue Strategy 10:43 Bootstrapping to Profitability 11:58 Direct Marketing 14:27 Going International After 2008 16:15 Cracking the US Market 17:23 Why Float on AIM 20:03 Founder Role and Governance 22:30 Quartix Culture 27:02 AIM Advice and Share Price 28:33 AI Impact and Capital Discipline 33:16 What Andy Would Do Faster 34:28 Book Recommendations and Wrap Up If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis. Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day. Links & Resources: Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers [https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers] Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en [https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en] Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf] Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

ILT015 Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA) CEO James Ashton on Journalism, Economics & the Markets (S2 EP07)

In the latest episode of 'Investing for the Long Term,' hosts Judith McKenzie and Rosemary Banyard welcome James Ashton, Chief Executive of the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA). James reflects on his diverse and illustrious career, from his early days as a financial journalist to his current role at the QCA. James shares compelling stories from his time interviewing high-profile business figures like Richard Branson and discusses the importance of public equity markets. James also delves into his experience in both ghost writing and authoring books, notably 'The Everything Blueprint' about Arm, and touches on the challenges faced by UK small companies in accessing growth capital. Timestamps: 01:26 Introducing James Ashton 02:48 James Ashton's Career Journey 05:05 From Journalism to the QCA 10:06 Writing and Corporate Stories 16:15 Challenges and Changes in the UK Corporate Scene 20:27 The Unique Role of QCA 20:41 Challenges in the Competitive Landscape 22:14 Reflections on the Financial Crisis 23:54 Advice for Aspiring Journalists 24:46 Mentors and Influences 25:32 Proudest Career Achievements 30:31 The Art of Ghost writing 34:29 Reading and Writing Insights 36:36 Final Thoughts If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis. Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day. Links & Resources: Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers [https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers] Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en [https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en] Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf] Visit the QCA website: https://www.theqca.com/ [https://www.theqca.com/] Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/ [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/] Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement [https://twitter.com/FRetirement] Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

ILT014 Navigating Finance and Leadership: A Conversation with Eagle Eye CFO Lucy Sharman-Munday (S2 EP06)

In an engaging conversation, Lucy Sharman-Munday, Finance Director of Eagle Eye Solutions, shares her career journey, insights into the evolving role of finance directors, and the impact of leadership on company culture. Lucy recounts her transition from aspiring doctor to finance professional, her early career at KPMG, and her experiences in various roles that shaped her approach to business. Lucy highlights the challenges and opportunities of working with strong personalities like Sir Terry Leahy and Tim Mason, and the importance of diversity and mentorship in professional growth. The episode concludes with recommendations for navigating significant business transformations, underscoring the need for strategic focus and innovative thinking. Timestamps: 00:45 Understanding Eagle Eye's Core Business 01:52 Lucy's Early Career Journey 03:12 Transition to Industry and First Major Role 05:14 Joining Eagle Eye and Initial Challenges 13:04 Leadership and Board Dynamics at Eagle Eye 20:33 The Role of a Finance Director 23:47 Career Advice and Personal Reflections 28:22 Proudest Achievements and Initiatives 32:57 Final Thoughts and Recommendations If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis. Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day. Links & Resources: Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers [https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers] Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en [https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en] Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf] Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/ [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/] Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement [https://twitter.com/FRetirement] Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

FYR078 Navigating Pensions with Scottish Widows Stuart Hopley

In this episode of the Fund Retirement Podcast, host Lee chats with Stuart Hopley, Relationship Director at Scottish Widows. Stuart discusses his unexpected journey into the pensions industry and addresses the major challenges people face with pensions in the UK, including system complexity and a lack of a saving culture. He offers practical advice on tracking down old pensions, the implications of the new pension dashboard, and the importance of regular contributions. The conversation touches on financial education, the challenges faced by the self-employed, and the role of employers in supporting their employees' financial futures. Stuart also shares innovative ideas to engage people in pensions, utilizing social media, gamification, and webinars. Detailed discussions on the importance of pension nominations, the role of financial advice, and practical steps for retirement planning make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to secure their financial future. Timestamps: 00:28 Understanding Pension Challenges 00:39 Practical Pension Advice 00:49 Financial Education and Employer Support 00:55 Engaging with Pensions: Social Media and Gamification 01:03 Starting the Conversation with Stuart 01:23 Stuart's Career Journey 03:57 The Complexity of Pensions 06:23 Tracking Down Old Pensions 07:28 The Pension Dashboard: A Game Changer 10:46 The Issue of Lost Pensions 12:25 Supporting the Self-Employed 14:38 Pension Awareness and Engagement 23:20 Innovations in Pension Engagement 26:00 The Role of Social Media 28:18 Employer Innovations and Support 28:58 Employer Advocacy and Social Media Trust 30:25 The Future of Pensions and Digitalization 30:55 Gamification in Pension Engagement 36:41 Financial Education and Awareness 42:07 The Importance of Nomination of Beneficiary 45:44 Retirement Planning and Employer Support 48:55 The Role of Financial Advice in Retirement 51:12 Closing Reflections and Quick Fire Questions Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day. Guest Links & Resources: Stuart Hopely LinkedIn profile: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/stuart-hopley-6ab34124 [https://uk.linkedin.com/in/stuart-hopley-6ab34124] Sottish Widows Pension Mirror Game: https://www.pensionmirror.co.uk/ [https://www.pensionmirror.co.uk/] Scottish Widows Job Dash Game: https://www.scottishwidowsjobdash.co.uk/ [https://www.scottishwidowsjobdash.co.uk/] Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/ [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/] Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

ILT013 From Rothschild to James Hambro: A Journey in Investment Management with Nicola Barber (S2 EP05)

In this episode of 'Investing for the Long Term,' hosts Judith McKenzie and Rosemary Banyard welcome Nicola Barber, an experienced equity investor and portfolio manager with over 35 years in the industry. Nicola shares her unique career journey that began at Rothschild without a university degree and traversed through notable firms such as Barings and James Hambro Partners. The discussion includes insights into her role in managing charities' investments, her approach to navigating the ever-changing markets, and the impact of technology and regulation on investment strategies. Nicola also reflects on the pivotal moments and achievements in her career and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the finance sector. Timestamps: 01:44 Meet Nicola Barber 02:39 Nicola's Early Career 03:59 Challenges and Opportunities at Rothschild 06:49 Understanding Livery Companies 09:25 Career Transitions and Insights 17:42 Joining James Hambro & Partners 22:55 Reflecting on Career Challenges 23:48 Insights into the World of Charities 27:14 Managing Multi-Asset Portfolios 29:39 A Day in the Life of an Investment Partner 34:33 Navigating the UK Market 38:43 Proudest Career Achievements 40:02 Advice to the Younger Generation 40:44 Book and Podcast Recommendations If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis. Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day. Links & Resources: Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers [https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers] Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en [https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en] Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf] Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/ [https://www.fundyourretirement.com/] Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement [https://twitter.com/FRetirement]