Mark Lambert

Review from verified client

January, 2024

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Redundancy

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark is incredibly knowledgeable and knows how to explain complex topics in simple terms. He is approachable, very responsive and always has his clients best interests at heart.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Meeting expectations

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mark's reply

Hi Annika, many thanks for your review, very very much appreciated. Kind Regards Mark

Review from verified client

January, 2024

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Mark has taken over from David Hole our previous advisor, who has considerably helped us financially well before the involvement of Succession. We have had one review with Mark, January 2023 and are happy with the way our retirement funds are being managed.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Our views on investment / risk have not changed since retirement in 2016. We are comfortable with the financial arrangements that are in place to maintain our current standard of living and future requirements. Our demands / requirements of Mark's expertise has been minimal.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Our portfolio has suffered due to the extremely poor market conditions. Results had been anticipated but investment is a long term "haul".

What could they have done better?

Difficult to answer as market conditions drive investment.

Mark's reply

Good morning, many thanks for taking the time to provide a review. I will contact you privately to discuss the service aspect you highlighted. Many thanks again.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Looking for advice on pensions and investments on retirement

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He has given us impartial, wide-ranging financial advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The pandemic and global circumstances have affected the return we had hoped for

What could they have done better?

Global circumstances went against expectations and could not be changed

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Mark had taken from David Hole - whom we have known for many (20?) years.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark has been patient with us, explaining everything

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not really - it's not the fault of Mark, but markets.

What could they have done better?

Nothing in the circumstances.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My father suggested an adviser when my mother left me an inheritance

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

By explaining carefully what is needed

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes in the help he has given me but the markets have been challenging

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

inherited him from previous advisor

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

continued in the same way as previous advisor

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

Transaction costs from the platform when investing should be wavered far too expensive

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

When our previous advisor retired Mark replaced him.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark took over in the current volatile financial crisis. We had experienced a previous crisis during which we hadn't received any support (totally unconnected outfit). It was very stressful and we lost money by withdrawing investments instead of weathering the storm. Mark was honest about the present situation and gave advice accordingly. Although not comparable situations we felt more settled and relieved to be in good hands

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

What we hoped for wasn't in anyone's ability to give but managing our own money has never been an option. We remain hopeful that the world situation will improve and our finances will pick up.

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To invest and plan for future

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Yes. Continued with earlier links to Mike Fisher

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing more required

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Mark Lambert was introduced to me by my longstanding advisor who was retiring. This was during the pandemic.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He has been able to take over and continues to provide sound advice either on the telephone or in person.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Markets are ever changing - I am realistic

What could they have done better?

I take on board all the advice and I formation Mark provides.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Financial advice.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark has always been friendly and professional with his advice. I have worked with Mark and his colleagues for many years and as such I have high confidence in his advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Outcomes are as expected in the current markets.

Mark's reply

Many thanks for your time Steve, very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

December, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Mark took over from my last FA David Hole do it's a continuity of a long term arrangement.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark visited us and made suggestions. He has also been prompt to respond to my enquiries.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I would like 'Fools Guide' understanding of my finance. The platform and charts leave me nodding as if I understand. I need very basic info. I have flagged this up with Mark.

Mark's reply

Many thanks Mary for taking the time Mary, much appreciated. Last point duly noted.

Review from verified client

January, 2023

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Trust set for our daughters

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

On this occasion it was set up by a previous adviser

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes so far

What could they have done better?

None so far

Mark's reply

Many thanks for your time in providing the positive feedback.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed assistance with Pension planning for myself and business. Also needed assistance with investments and financial forecasting and savings

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He has helped set up pensions through my business as well as providing invaluable advice around investments, dividends, inheritance planning and general savings advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Mark's reply

Andrew , thank you so much for the review, it really is very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needing help in investment matters

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

All ways on hand to help with the things that can be a minefield

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, quite happy

Mark's reply

Richard , many thanks for spending the time in providing feedback .

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Advice on pension funds

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Given us really sound advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Mark's reply

Dear Barrie and Jan, your time on this is very much appreciated .

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We have been looked after by Mark and his associates for many many years looking after our investments.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark is a good listener, which in tern makes you feel you are being well looked after, which we are.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing.

Mark's reply

Many thanks Louise and Chris , very much appreciated

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

During a very enjoyable prolonged career break, I wanted to review my current and future financial position. Understanding all aspects of the various pension options open to me would be a key factor in my next career decision.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Once Mark understood my current position and hopes for the future, he quickly pulled a team of Succession professionals together to undertake a comprehensive review of my pension options. Once complete, Mark talked me through the report and I was able to make an informed decision with confidence.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Absolutely yes. My decision was quickly acted upon and completed ahead of expectations.

What could they have done better?

I honestly can’t think of anything at this stage.

Mark's reply

Hi Aaron many thanks for your time on this , very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Sale of rental properties

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark always explains in detail and is always available to answer any questions from investments, tax efficiency and pension income.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Mark's reply

Many thanks for taking the time Jan, very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

November, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Private Pension Funds

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Has always given us sound advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Most of the time but not always.

What could they have done better?

Had a crystal ball, they need one in today’s volatile market.

Mark's reply

Many thanks Martin and Vanessa much appreciated,

Review from verified client

October, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Pension planning

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark helped us understand how our aspirations in retirement could be achieved and helped us with a plan regarding current pension contributions. Mark also advised in IHT planning.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We will see the outcome in future years and look forward to receiving regular advice and updates from Mark.

What could they have done better?

All items were fully covered at our meeting.

Mark's reply

Many thanks for taking the time to post this review, very much appreciated.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark was very helpful, friendly and pleasant during our initial meeting and sent us forms to complete about our budget and assets. These were time-consuming to complete but we found them very useful. If we feel we need further advice in the future we will come back to him.

Mark's reply

Many thanks for the feedback and the review. I hope I will be speaking with you both again soon.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

My mother has been admitted into a nursing home as she has dementia, my father passed away and we had to sell the family home. I needed advice as to what to do with the proceeds to ensure my mother was cared for. Also I am looking to take early retirement and Mark showed me how this would be possible.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He provided us with the information needed to make the right decisions for my mother.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We are in the process of organising the investments and therefore there have been no outcomes yet. Although with his advice to me personally separately from the advice regarding my mother he has allowed me to give a final retirement date to my employer and ensured I have the confidence to secure my future.

What could they have done better?

I think Mark explained everything to us in clear terms as we were naive in this field never having had to deal with this sort of money before. I don't think he could have made it easier.

Mark's reply

Alison , many thanks for taking the time in posting this review .

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Very positive impression of Mark. Knows his business but a refreshing absence of salesmanship. Just a genuine desire to do the best for his clients

Mark's reply

Phil , many thanks for taking time to complete the review. Very much appreciated. Kind Regards Mark

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark has diligently helped us evaluate how we plan for our retirement. His insights have been invaluable, and he patiently explains the options to help us refine our decision making. Thank you Mark.

Mark's reply

Many thanks the positive feedback. Going forward, I look forward working with you both.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

So far so good.

Mark's reply

Dear Martin and Vanessa, many thanks for the positive feedback. It was lovely to meet with you both and I look forward to working with both .

Review from verified client

April, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Investments

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark enlightened us to the options we had.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Mark's advice has always been very helpful.

What could they have done better?

I don't believe mark could do any better. He is most professional and his advice has always been sound in our experience.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We were at a stage in our lives where we were approaching retirement and were looking to plan for our future.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark Lambert joined Norris and Fisher when John Norris retired and took over as our financial adviser. When Mark introduced us to the Succession platform we changed our pre-existing investments for those he recommended.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Broadly speaking, given the current financial situation, we are happy with the outcome.

What could they have done better?

Again, given the current situation, we cannot think of anything better.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

When my husband died I needed investment advise.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

I inherited Mark from my previous adviser--but would not have stayed with him if I was not happy with the way he handles my affairs.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In a word YES

What could they have done better?

Nothing or I would not have stayed with his advise

Mark's reply

Janice, many thanks for the review, very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I have known Mark for many years as he gave financial advice to both my Mother and myself.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark was a great help when finalising my Mother's estate and has since given me sound advice regarding investment for my future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

I am confident with the advice Mark has given me.

Mark's reply

Many thanks Karen for the review.

Review from verified client

February, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

originally for life insurance policies and then advice on pensions

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Helped us with investing our pension money

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes very happy with outcome

What could they have done better?

Financial advisor has done an excellent job

Mark's reply

Many thanks Sue and Dennis, much appreciated ,

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark is very approachable and professional, he took time to explain exactly what would be involved and the processes required. He also ensured that I fully understood everything. He kept me updated and responded promptly to my queries and questions.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed to switch pension fund

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark advised us on the full process of transferring a substantial final salary fund into a SIPP

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing to add . Mark was very attentive to our requirements

Mark's reply

Neil , many thanks for the review. Very much appreciated.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To get professional advice on investments, pensions etc

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

By offering the professional advice and planning requested

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

We experienced some teething problems to begin with but things are running smoothly now

Mark's reply

Many thanks Michael , much appreciated.

Review from verified client

January, 2021

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Early retirement following the sale of our business in September 2018.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

In addition to the above, Mark advised on; Wills House purchase loans/gifts to our children Trusts Expression of wish issues.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Obviously the Pandemic has had an affect on our investments. However, I believe this has been mitigated by the spread of investments advised by Mark.

What could they have done better?

This process was new to us as previously we had been self investing in ISA's and using SJP for our pensions. Mark has provided sound advice based on a thorough understanding of our circumstances and need/requirements. I do not believe that Mark could have done more nor would we have done anything different.

Mark's reply

Many thanks Andy , its a pleasure to help .

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with Mark

Mark was very approachable and friendly, but at the same time professional. He was always happy to be flexible and took his time to explain things clearly.

Mark's reply

Many thanks Malcolm for your review , very much appreciated, hope to see you again.

Review from verified client

December, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

After my husband died I needed to invest my money somewhere safe so I could retain an income.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He made me feel confident that my investments would work and give me enough income for my future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

I honestly can't think if anything.

Review from verified client

December, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I required advice with regard to securing finances for my children should anything happen to me.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He advised me of the best options for my particular situation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes I have.

What could they have done better?

Nothing, Mark is very thorough and although most things like this I find I’m completely out of my depth but Mark was able to explain everything to me in layman’s terms.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Pension investment

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Recommended investment vehicle

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

All good

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We have always had a financial adviser from when we were in business and in our retirement to best utilise our hard earned savings

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

With advice about investments and setting up our family trust.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Too early to tell with regards to the family trust but with investments we have enjoyed good outcomes.

What could they have done better?

We can't think of anything.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I wanted to transfer my lloyds bank pension.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He has been very helpful in managing my pension by giving me good advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

N/A

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I changed to the same financial adviser as my aunt as I was looking after estate with power of attorney.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

I stayed with Succession when my previous adviser left and Mark has been far more helpful and explains everything very clearly

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

I can't think of anything he could have done better

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

The need to have a pension.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark provided advice and set up the pension.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

There is nothing I know of that Mark could have done better.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Over 20yrs ago my wife and I wanted advice on Life assurance and were recommended to approach a company which Mark joined. Because of the success of that advice we sought spread to all the other areas checked above.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark helped us with all the above. He has taken great care to understand what our requirements are and has been prepared to spend time ensuring that we understand the various options available to us and the implications of each one.. He has then guided us through the implementation of our decisions with great patience .

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcomes have far exceeded our expectations!

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything that we have ultimately thought was poor advice so there is nothing I would have like to have seen done differently.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

After some years working in the Far East we had accrued a surplus amount of cash. As I was too busy to engage in investment we decided to seek professional advice and so our investment portfolio began.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

On retirement we returned to UK and continued to use the same investment company . A few years into retirement we were introduced to Mark and have been with him regardless of the company he worked for since. He has consistently given us excellent advice on a number of occasions and helped to minimise our inheritance tax burden and provide tax efficient drawdown for us during a family emergency. He is always available to discuss any matters we have and to date we have benefited greatly through his knowledge of investment, savings, inheritance tax and retirement income.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, we feel very comfortable that we can afford retirement care if we should require it and if I die before my wife that she is well provided for under Marks guidance and preparations already in place.

What could they have done better?

I really don't know how he could have done better given the risk profile we choose .

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

inheritance

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

he advised where to invest

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

at the current time it is a bit challenging to see what the outcome will be, up till then I think my investments could have done better.

What could they have done better?

More contact by telephone instead of e-mails. Its good to talk!!

Mark's reply

Many thanks for your review, it is very much appreciated. I note your comments in "What could they do better" and will look to increase our telephone contact as well as maintaining the online communication and information. In doing so I would hope to provide better over all value to you. Thanks again.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

As one of the directors of a small engineering company dating back to the early 1980s, we engaged Norris & Fisher as our financial advisors and that continued on a company basis for many years. Subsequently on an individual basis with retirement approaching I maintained that relationship and when Mark joined Norris & Fisher he became my designated contact approx. fifteen years ago.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

During my working life he has consistently guided me through all aspects of insurance, saving for the future, investments, maximising my pension returns and the importance of designating power of attorney, wills etc. Now in my retirement, he maintains regular contact to monitor my financial affairs including projections for the future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Very much so

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything!!!

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Received a lump sum from a pension, wanted advice as to how to invest

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He has set up an investment portfolio, to allow me to save and also produce an income.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To re-invest a trust fund and to combine this with current savings.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Mark explained the risk models to us very clearly so that we were able to assess and decide on a level of risk we were comfortable with with respect to our proposed longevity of saving vs using funds. Throughout the economic turmoil of this year, Mark has kept us updated with helpful fact sheets and has been responsive in answering our specific questions.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes thus far!

What could they have done better?

I've really appreciated having fundamentals explained to me in a simple way, suitable for a scientist with no economics background ! The additional services that are offered - insurances, wills etc are probably the area I'm less clear on whether they are truly beneficial to get via Succession or whether less expensive options are as good.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Need to manage income to ensure we would have sufficient funds when retirement came along.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Continued to support and expand on investment plans when he took over from our previous adviser when he retired.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

None specifically.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

We had been with Norris & Fisher for years before Mark joined the company.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

Continued the good advice & especially when they became part of Succession.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Now we have got used to Succession & understand what is happening, all is fine.

What could they have done better?

We think the transfer to Succession was more complicated than expected & then Succession renumbered all their policies. We kept Mark informed of our geriatric lack of understanding & he kept us informed.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Needed help with investments and income and pensions

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

It was a very difficult time for me and Mark was and is still very supportive and heloful

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

Feeling the need for investment advice better than going it alone, I accepted Towry Law's offer to advise me when I worked in Bahrain in the'90s, and the need being ongoing, the fine relationship with their advisers continued. Mark chose to move on from Towry Law in due course and I have stayed with him, very happy to do so.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

A successor to a series of Towry advisers he has continued to advise me and has made much better use of my financial assets than I could ever achieve.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Mark has been so energetic and supportive that I have no answer to offer. The generous bequests from my late wife's estate bear witness.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

To maximise investment income in retirement.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

He advised re above within our assessed attitude to risk.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

We are satisfied with the advice that we have been given.

Review from verified client

November, 2020

What were the circumstances that caused you to initially look for an adviser?

I was advised by my accountant when I retired.

How has Mark Lambert helped you?

His predecessor had already helped me initially and Mark advised me and my late wife to review our future financial situation.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

With the Succession Platform, I would say yes in the current financial climate. Some of my shares have suffered large losses due to coronavirus.

What could they have done better?

I do not know, as the present financial climate is so uncertain.

Mark's reply

Many thanks for the review much appreciated. It is pleasing that your advised investments have performed well in these times. As we are not handling your shares we have not been able to influence those. Thanks again.