David Dodgson

Review from verified client

April, 2024

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

To get professional investment guidance

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Advised on investment portfolios and risk categories. Advised on investment options for uncrystallised parts of pension portfolio. Discussed and illustrated investment performance and future recommendations

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing. All communication and management was excellent

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2024

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Clear a precise explanation of what is offered

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

Dissatisfied with previous adviser.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Effective pension planning and financial needs forecasting. Prompt and responsive advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

Not much to be honest.

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

To understand pension drawdown

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Pension transfer and drawdown

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, David is a true professional.

Review from verified client

March, 2024

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

I wanted to be aware of my pension options.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David has always been available to answer my queries and is very professional in his explanations. He has a calm and measured approach who is extremely knowledgeable in his field of expertise.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome I am looking for is based on factors outside David’s control and dependent on market forces. The outputs from our discussions however are well illustrated and clear to understand.

What could they have done better?

I cannot think of anything.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2024

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

A great first impression with David - he was not able to help but pointed us in the right direction.

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

I was past the age off 55 years old and looking to stop working

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Pensions advice, drawdown advice, general financial mentoring/coaching

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We're 12 months into our working relationship and yes, good outcomes so far

What could they have done better?

None

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

Initially wanted an advisor to set up a personal pension.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Helped plan my personal investment decisions

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes definitely

What could they have done better?

Nothing specific springs to mind, as always received a good service.

Review from verified client

February, 2024

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

My divorce. As my ex husband was dealing with all the finances of our household, I had no clue about my financial situation.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

He has helped me in many ways particularly emotionally. Also his explanation is always very clear.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. I have much better knowledge on my financial situation.

What could they have done better?

Perhaps more micro management might be helpful to me.

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Needed to invest accumulated assets as I wanted to achieve returns in order to attain a good work life balance.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Very professional and easy to deal with and goes the extra mile. Receptive to open conversations and feedback.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Early days as it has been a volatile couple of years so I haven’t achieved the returns I had hoped.

What could they have done better?

Hard to answer as you can’t ultimately control the markets and unforeseen global issues.

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Required Long term financial planning after accumulating assets over a long period while working overseas,

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David professional knowledge and friendly approach has been excellent. No issues in referring. We have created our ISA, SIPP and investment portfolio.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Been a client for 2 years and the market has been tricky. We are moving in a positive direction now over later part of 2023 and I hope returns will start adding value to out investment base. We are not at the level we desire yet but positive that the strategy put in place by David will achieve those returns as we move forward over the medium term.

What could they have done better?

No issues at this stage.

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Divorce

How has David Dodgson helped you?

He is extremely approachable and ready to answer any question., giving clear explanations.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Death of parent / inheritance issues

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Assisted in providing advice on types of investment to best suite my personal situation which provide current and future growth/ support

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes. Portfolio has grown whilst also providing support when needed

What could they have done better?

Happy with the service and advice I have received

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Retired

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Balanced advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Sort of

Review from verified client

January, 2024

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

Increase in income

How has David Dodgson helped you?

He is very knowledgable and gives high quality advice. He has helped me to understand how to plan effectively for retirement and increase my wealth.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing i can think of

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Clear and helpful

Review from verified client

December, 2023

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

Being close to retirement

How has David Dodgson helped you?

A full financial review, pension transfer and long term planning

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Going through a divorce and was receiving a share of spouse pension. Wasn’t using a solicitor and David assurance he would help me and support me made me choose him.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David took a fee of 3850 which was meant to be for advice once I had the pension and for initially putting it in a pension account. He did the latter but as I had lost faith in him took no advice once I had the pension yet ethically he made no adjustment to the amount charged and the Ombudsman ruled he is under no obligation to do so. Employing David has been the most costly decision of my life.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No. David cost me thousands by not helping me. He had paperwork needed to progress pension sharing order and at no point talked me through where we were with all the paperwork and what I needed to be doing. He often referred to couldn’t my ex do something. We were seperated.

What could they have done better?

Kept his promises. Been vigilant.

David's reply

We’re very sorry that you’ve had cause to be unhappy with the service from The Private Office. We take all complaints extremely seriously and have fully investigated and responded to your formal complaint, including sharing all details with the Financial Ombudsman. The Ombudsman and our own investigation have found that David and The Private Office were not at fault, the correct processes were followed and the service provided was set out and agreed by you. We acknowledge your right to express your dissatisfaction and we are sorry that this is the case.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Newly retired, with significant cash resources and looking for investment performance

How has David Dodgson helped you?

We now have structured portfolios and a financial plan.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet

What could they have done better?

Nothing. Markets have been very challenging

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David explained the services on offer and the next steps.

Review from verified client

November, 2023

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

Previous advisor no longer available

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Structure and organisation around planning for financial commitments and retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes although markets are disappointing

What could they have done better?

Can’t think of anything

David's reply

Thanks for taking the time to provide your review Jemma, which is very helpful. Best David

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

First impression is neutral. I am looking for advice on a fairly specific point and Mr Dodgson has replied that it is necessary to understand the full picture in order to provide any advice. I will proceed cautiously but as far as I am concerned, a Financial Advisor needs to demonstrate that he is providing value in a "trial area" before he/she has the opportunity to take on a large mandate.

David's reply

Thank you for taking the time to provide your feedback. I agree that it is prudent to seek advice in a "trial area" before entrusting an adviser with a "large mandate". However it is also important for a new adviser to provide you with fully informed advice within the context of your overall financial circumstances even if the initial focus is concentrated in one specific area. My request for broader information was intended to assist the advice given to you and from experience that tends to be the most successful means to assist clients. I'm sorry that I failed to deliver that message effectively during our initial conversation.

Review from verified client

September, 2023

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

Returning to the UK from an overseas assignment we needed an adviser to help us with our sterling portfolio.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Made a series of sensible suggestions regarding UK based investments and prompted transfers to other investment vehicles.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Overall yes. Initially with PQR we were able to use a fee based system, rather than commission i.e. we paid consultant rates for the time we used. This is preferable to the percentage of investment approach which we are now obliged to fund. I am still convinced that a fee based consulting charge would generate more income for TPO and leave clients with a better sense that they are getting value for their money.

What could they have done better?

As I mentioned, taking fees from the size of investments is basically an unwelcome wealth tax. It could leave the impression that TPO does nothing and still makes money out of their clients.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

We had a lively introductory session and i felt very comfortable talking to him

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David explained options in a way I understood

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Thorough, practical and clear

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Excellent interaction with easy to understand honest advice in relation to services offered by The Private Office.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Professional, fully understood our requirements

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

In such fields you need an expert

How has David Dodgson helped you?

He is a good listener and then acts

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Getting there in the current climate

What could they have done better?

Stopped the pandemic !

Review from verified client

August, 2023

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

Transfer of pension

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David has provided advice regarding the initial transfer and ongoing maintenance of the pension. He has followed up with personal meetings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing, it has been all as expected.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very clear, practical advice combing a long term perspective.

Review from verified client

July, 2023

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

My wife and I were seeking long term financial planning advice following a return to the UK after many years overseas.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David is personable and confident professional financial advisor who has a depth of experience working in the financial markets. We are comfortable with David's approach and the plans. The ultimate outcome to measure success of our financial plans will be the performance and judgement of the investment team in achieving our goals over coming years.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

We have achieved a long term financial plan supported by maximising tax effective investments within the UK regulatory environment. We have been clients for 18 months and market conditions during this been have been challenging so outcomes at present will require patience's. We are invested for the medium to long term and hope to see improved performance.

What could they have done better?

No further comments as we covered plans in great detail.

Review from verified client

June, 2023

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

We had cash available

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Given us confidence

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

No not at all but it’s been the state of the market

What could they have done better?

Made me money but it’s not been TPO fault

Review from verified client

June, 2023

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

We had money to invest

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Clarity

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Sadly no but not David or TPOfault simply the state of the market

What could they have done better?

Nothing

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

appropriate questions and understood what I was seeking. Explained the process clearly and the costs

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Complete waste of time. I thought I was being offered financial advice. All they / he wanted to do was sell his / their services. No financial advice offered either for free (which was promised). Even if I had wanted to pay for it, just wanted to sell services. Waste of time.

David's reply

Thank you for your candid feedback. I always try to be as helpful as possible when speaking to a prospective client for the first time, so I'm very disappointed and also sorry that you found our conversation to be a "complete waste of time". However important financial decisions often require require more than an initial free discussion and require detailed, regulated advice to ensure that you take the correct course of action. The nature of your enquiry suggested that this was precisely what you required. Indeed I recollect suggesting that you seek this advice from your existing firm of advisers as they would most likely be best placed to help. I still think that you would benefit from regulated financial advice from either TPO or your existing firm of advisers, but ultimately there will be a cost implication. I am sorry that my opinion gave the impression that I was only seeking to "sell" our services. Regards David

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Extremely knowledgeable about pensions. Friendly, pragmatic and a strong communicator.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Initial discussion only so far but appears to be aware of my needs and goals.

Review from verified client

March, 2023

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

Needed to sort out and plan our investments & savings as we approached retirement.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Confident that he is doing the best for us.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

In the present climate, yes.

What could they have done better?

Magic wand to improve the markets!

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very helpful

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Informative about the investment market and, importantly, realistic about the unreliability of returns. Easy to talk to - used language which I, with no financial knowledge, could understand.

Review from verified client

February, 2023

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

Divorce

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Clear explanations, answers any question.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not clear what this means

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David appears knowledgeable with a good understanding of the pension world

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2023

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David provided a clear overview of how TPO operates and the services offered. David answered all questions asked succinctly.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

This was my first discussion with a financial advisor and David came across as knowledgeable and helpful.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David was honest about the steps I could take in my situation and answered all my questions. He was upfront about what my next steps should be.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

First class

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Really empathetic and had a clear understanding of my situation. Gave me some good advice and further people to contact.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

Financial planning following retirement.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

From our first meeting, David has been approachable, answered any queries or doubts and explained our future financial planning in "a language we understand".

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, he has given us advice but the markets haven't been on his side!

What could they have done better?

We are happy with the advice that we have received to date.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

Financial planning for retirement

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David has taken over from a previous colleague and he has respected what was set up previously and made appropriate changes

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

I haven't retired so will need to wait and see

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

Retirement and inhertitance to invest.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Advise on pensions, isa's, releasing funds.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

Review from verified client

October, 2022

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

Legacy pension pots

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Strategy aligned to financial goals and practical advice on how to get there

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I have a plan and can see where I am against this

What could they have done better?

Nothing

Review from verified client

September, 2022

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

Sale of business shares

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David has made sure that my children can enjoy a more secure future.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Thus far, given the turmoil that has engulfed the world the portfolio has held up very well. It has continued to make profit.

What could they have done better?

In a world of instant communication more knowledge about the investment progress would lessen anxiety in a turbulent world.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

We've only held an initial meeting but so far so good - very professional

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very clear and coherent advice given, most importantly David listens (a surprising amount of people do not ) and therefore gets a grasp of the issues quickly. Would recommend highly.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2022

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Very professional and clear

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very professional and extremely helpful. Very comfortable to talk to.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very easy to talk to and extremely helpful.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David was knowledgeable and professional during our consultation. I would have full confidence in him dealing with any of my financial matters in the future and would opt to use him before anyone else.

Review from verified client

June, 2022

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

Need to look after my savings

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Yes, good consistent advice.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Really kind and helpful - very happy to take the matter forward.

Review from verified client

June, 2022

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

My beautiful wife has died

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Just does what it says on the tin. Clearly explains my options.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Understanding options going forward

What could they have done better?

Nothing ?

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David was professional and very helpful. He provided useful advice, given the basic information provide for the consultation.

Review from verified client

May, 2022

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

Retirement

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Solid advice

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes , mostly in long term

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very useful and helpful guidelines thankyou David. Lynda Moore

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2022

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Was able to speak freely and openly to David ..cleared my head of some questions i had .

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

businesslike - friendly - listened well - mosrt professional (these comments are from a retired investment managerment professional)

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David helped me with questions I was beginning to think I would never find answers to.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Punctual, David not me (had problems with MS Teams)

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

I had an initial meeting with David which was very productive and informative. David provided an outline of the services that TPO can provide and an indication of the the type of fees that may be charged. David explained the process simply and explained the importance of the discovery process to enable TPO to better understand the client’s current financial situation and objectives. I am interested in further discussions with David to see how TPO can assist me by providing specialist advice on financial planning , pension consolidation and generating an optimum retirement income from my pensions.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

My meeting with David was very productive. David was very helpful in explaining the initial engagement and discovery process and outlining the next steps and the initial fees that will apply. I am looking forward to working with David and the TPO team to develop our relationship and to use his expertise in financial planning, tax and pensions to review my current circumstances to help me identify my options for early retirement and opportunities to generate and maximize my retirement income.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very helpful and informative first online meeting, discussing quite a complex case!

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very helpful for an initial chat

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

I had a 30 minute conversation with David. He is clearly knowledgeable in the area I am seeking advice on and has arranged afollow up call a week frpm now.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2022

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Sorry to say he didn’t seem interested in my problem and didn’t offer any help.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David was warm, welcoming, professional, and extremely knowledgeable on the subject matter.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David's very friendly, reassuring and professional manner quickly helped me to decide what action should be taken at this stage.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very friendly and thorough.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Professional, engaging, good communicator

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

July, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

I had a brief conversation with David and he provided very clear immediate advice on a pensions issue and did not try the hard sell but focussed on understanding the customer and the issues and providing good objective advice based on that. I did not require further advice on this occasion but would go back to him in the future

Review from verified client

July, 2021

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

I was taking early retirement and I needed advice about pension options.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David listened to me and gave me advice appropriate to me circumstances.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

What could they have done better?

N/A

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

We had a very informative and considerate conversation. Thank you for all your help.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Conversation was clear, concise and honest. Excellent introduction.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Did not cover charges as he handed over the contact to a colleague. Otherwise clear and helpful. Cannot recommend TPO fully yet as have not received detailed input yet!

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

It was very helpful

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

A helpful start. He asked all the right questions to enable us to move to the next stage.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Excellent free chat about pension options and David is a thoroughly likeable advisor

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very clear and informative

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Was knowledgeable and able to answer all my questions to my satisfaction as was reassuring to hear about the investment committee.

Review from verified client

March, 2021

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

We have used one for many years our move to larger sums of pensions needed advice.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

His experience gave us a balance we were looking for.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Keeping up with our current investments.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very informative and helpful session.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Unfortunately i only have a transfer value of £110k and David deals with larger sums so the cost on my pension going forward would be prohibitive but thank him for his time and advice which was clearly explained.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very informative and gave great advice. I gave decided to wait until I am 55 until making any decisions. This was down to David. Thank you.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David, came across personable and professional.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

January, 2021

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

In the short term I won't be using your services. The approach of earning fees from the value of funds under management does not suit my purposes. However, there might be discreet pieces of advice I come back to in the future.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

December, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David was very approachable, open, honest, and direct. He was clear about the process of working with them; what would be free, what charged, and the format of those charges. He was also frank about options based on my circumstances; which I appreciated. I’d recommend the initial discussion; I can’t recommend anything further as I have not been through the process yet.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2020

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Very helpful, very impressed with David’s honesty, integrity as well as expertise.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very helpful and knowledgable also honest helped me make a decision in my best interest even if it meant not using his services

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

November, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

On time, explained TPO uniqueness and values well, listened and responded to my questions, clear in charges, helped increase my understanding, generous with time and expertise.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David was very professional and good at listening to my personal circumstances. We discussed a few options which were new to me and provided clarity. My understanding was charges were going to be sent after the discussion.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very informative .All questions answered satisfactorily and everything explained clearly.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Very helpful and informative . Answered all my questions with clarity and patience. I did not answer the question on fees as this is still under review.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

October, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Personal and professional.

Review from verified client

September, 2020

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

Preparing for retirement.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Independent review of our pension plans.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Clear concise and plain English. No problem recommending.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David's introductory phone call lasted for 30 minutes. In that time he explained his role as an independent financial adviser. We went over and expanded on the brief information he had received from my initial conversation with his office. He clearly described what services his office could provide and the charges for each of these. He showed a good understanding of my plans and what steps I had taken so far. He provided detailed answers to my questions which gave me confidence in arranging another meeting with him, once I had provided him with the information needed for him to prepare for that, he also made it clearly that another colleague would also be in that meeting. Following the initial meeting, I felt confident in dealing with David and The Private Office in the future.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

September, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

David had a very good grasp of our financial and personal situation and was able to provide a clear road map of our options. His colleague Sinead was also attentive and clarified the appropriate areas she needed to.

Review from verified client

August, 2020

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

Due to my divorce, I thought it would be better for me to find a new financial adviser, as I and my ex-husband employed the same financial adviser and there was a conflict of interests. I needed a fresh start and my solicitor recommended David.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

He helped me with thoroughly explaining the values and the type of assets I have received by the financial settlement. By doing that, he has given me a sense of security, which is what I have needed. He has started managing my assets recently. Every time I have some questions, he thoroughly explains to me and give me some confidence. As my ex-husband had been in charge of our assets for the last 32 years, I literally knew nothing about our financial situation. His kind and thorough approach has been extremely helpful to me as I am now facing my life as a divorcee and trying to achieve 'happiness' in my life.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

As he started looking after my assets recently, following my financial settlement, I haven't seen the outcome regarding the investments. However, he has already succeeded in giving me some security and confidence in the sense that I should be fine financially for the rest of my life as a divorcee.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

August, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Intelligent and informative.

Review from verified client

July, 2020

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

Changes to my workplace pension prompted me to seek guidance and advice.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

By providing clear and honest explanations of the choices open to me.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Not yet, the proposed changes to my workplace pension do not come into effect until later this year.

What could they have done better?

Nothing springs to mind.

David's reply

Thank you Jonathan. Please do get in contact if I can help any further. Best regards David

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

June, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

I found David to be open and knowledgeable and understanding of my financial position as an allied health professional in the National Health Service as I approach retirement.

Review from verified client

May, 2020

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

Desire to do a DB transfer

How has David Dodgson helped you?

High quality bespoke advice, timely and responsive. Risk and investment profiling for retirement

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes

What could they have done better?

Nothing - David’s expertise was brought to bear fully where I needed it - I’ll return for further advice and financial health checks in due course

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

May, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

Phoned to discussed the transfer of my BD pensions to a DC scheme. I found David to be knowledgable and extremely useful. I finished the conversation with a much clearer understanding of my path forward.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

April, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

I was referred to TPO after submitting an enquiry to unbiassed.co.uk. The day after my enquiry, I was contacted by an administrative member of staff who confirmed the background to my enquiry and explained that TPO could conduct an initial discussion to verify my requirements and explore how TPO could assist me - this would be without charge or obligation. An appointment was made with David who rang at exactly the appointed time. The discussion with David was informal and friendly but well structured and we discussed my options at a high level. Although I probably won't avail myself of TPO's services at this point in time, I found the interaction with them worthwhile and was impressed by the ease of dealing with them and the professionalism of the service they provide. I will be recommending them to friends, and will certainly consider using them in the future.

David's reply

Thank you very much for your feedback, hopefully we'll be able to assist in more detail in the future. Best regards David

Review from verified client

March, 2020

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

Currently divorcing and needed clear logical advice regarding asset splitting including specialist pension knowledge

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David has offered sensible, practical advice in a calm manner. He is the only person I have spoken to during this tortuous process who made it simple and straightforward, was not afraid to tell me when I was going in the wrong direction, and unraveled all the knots. I can't thank him enough, invaluable practical and emotional support.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, all is currently on hold. I am sure it will move smoothly now.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

March, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

This was an initial call to TPO for some high level advice/clarification. David was professional and gave that advice even though there was limited likelihood of future advice being requested due to the relative simplicity of my pension arrangements. An outline of fees for retirement planning was also given.

First impression from a user who is not yet a client

February, 2020

Please provide a brief comment about your experience with David

His assistant arranged that David would phone me today at 16:00. It is now 17;35 and imhave heard nothing from either David or his assistant.

Review from verified client

January, 2020

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

I needed a complete overhaul of my private pension provision and, not understanding the current legal framework or its consequences for pension schemes, I was looking for sensible and practical advice.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David looked at my existing schemes and explained the possibilities available to me under the current legal framework. Once I agreed to proceed, he then organised the transfer of funds in to a SIPP for me and we agreed on an investment regime for those funds.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The new scheme is up and running. It is very early days but, so far, so good!

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

Inheritance money to invest and retirement planning.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Financial planning and investment advice. Understanding the options for my employer’s share incentive scheme and associated share shop.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

The outcome has been to understand my options and commence a balanced portfolio investment.

What could they have done better?

David’s financial planning and investment advice has been considerate and excellent. David could have had a better understanding of the options for the share shop associated with my employer’s very specific share incentive scheme, particularly relating to the transfer of share shop shares out of the scheme for CGT annual limit optimization, I have researched this myself. Also he could have had a better understanding of income tax liability associated with foreign dividend income, again I have self-initiated my own investigation and David has recommended a tax accountant. Correct advice was given throughout but there was a lack of knowledge. David has been very helpful and readily available to discuss the options throughout (by text, email, telecom) and I value and sincerely appreciated his advice and guidance. The learning will been beneficial for all clients.

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

Future planning, i.e retirement

How has David Dodgson helped you?

Help us to understand pensions and shares

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far okay

What could they have done better?

A few questions via email took a while

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

My husband and I needed to do long term planning for us and our two children

How has David Dodgson helped you?

He took over from a financial advisor who, although a good advisor, was too personal in his comments. He went through all our investments and advised us which ones to keep and which to drop

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, our investments (now mine as a widow) have grown substantially

What could they have done better?

If I am honest, he could have hassled me a bit more for responses (I am hopeless) but I think he realised that I was struggling to look after two small children, hold down a full time job and deal with grief at the same time. 16 years on, he could take a tougher line with me.

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

retired recently

How has David Dodgson helped you?

analysed pension, lump sum, pension income and suggested a retirement strategy

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

too early to see outcome

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

Unhappy with existing provider

How has David Dodgson helped you?

David modelled different retirement options with respect to my pension, investments and savings.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

yes

What could they have done better?

Can't think of anything

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

complexity of affairs and opportunity to cross-check

How has David Dodgson helped you?

With the above

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

So far

What could they have done better?

Not much

Review from verified client

December, 2019

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

Transfer of my defined benefit plan to a SIPP.

How has David Dodgson helped you?

I met with David to discuss my plan to transfer my defined benefit pension and David did the review and advice letter which was necessary for the transfer. In addition, he helped me choose the destination for the DB pension and the investments.

Have you seen the outcome you were hoping for?

Yes, I have now transferred the DB pension.

What could they have done better?

He did a very good job and did not try to influence my decision in any way. He listened and understood the reasons I wanted to to do the transfer.

Review from verified client

November, 2019