Ross Liston
CEO M&G Advice
Ross is responsible for shaping and leading M&G’s Advice strategy for growth in the advice market.
With nearly 30 years in financial services, Ross is passionate about the advice sector and the role of advice in society. He believes the Academy plays a critical part in developing a new wave of talent, while making the profession more sustainable for the future.
Matthew Ings
Head of Academy
Matthew is responsible for the growth and development of the M&G Advice Academy as it continues to grow to support more people transitioning into the financial advice profession. He's a Chartered Financial Planner, and Fellow of the PFS, with over 20 years wealth management experience across a range of roles including advising, training, and management.
Jack Kennedy
Recruitment manager
Jack is an experienced financial adviser and business owner, which enables him to understand what's required to be a successful candidate.
His role is to initiate conversations around what the Academy has to offer and the options for when you're qualified. He takes candidates through the recruitment process and is ever present through the Academy journey.
Provide a smooth and compliant onboarding experience for new advisers. They manage onboarding activities, client transfers, and authorisation updates, while also supporting candidates through early development and FCA approval. Their work helps advisers establish a strong foundation for delivering excellent client service.
Victoria Delargy
Adviser Operations Manager
"It’s inspiring to build early relationships with such a diverse group of individuals and watch them grow into successful financial advisers."
Career snapshot:
- 20+ years’ experience across applications, e-learning, and business transfers.
- Leads a team, using expertise to support growth and development..
Caitlin Crane
Applications Supervisor
"I’m passionate about supporting career growth and contributing to the success of new Academy members from diverse backgrounds."
Career snapshot:
- Strong operational background with experience in support and executive roles.
- Rapid career progression since joining and now leading the applications process.
Manages all aspects of the Academy programme, from onboarding and exam re-sits to supporting candidates, as they become qualified financial advisers. They also serve as the main point of contact for general enquiries, ensuring consistent guidance throughout the journey.
Avril Dallas
Operations Manager
“Supporting trainees as they grow into impactful professionals is one of the most meaningful parts of what I do.”
Career snapshot:
- 25 + years’ experience with expertise in reporting, solutions, and adviser support.
- Skilled in managing large administrative teams and streamlining operational processes.
Nicola Carr
Operations Co-ordinator
“Helping trainees on their path to success is really fulfilling. I love seeing them overcome challenges”
Career snapshot:
- 24+ years with the business, including coordinating global HR training programmes and senior leadership events.
- Skilled in reporting, adviser support, and team operations.
Deliver structured learning across multiple stages of the adviser journey, combining technical and soft skills development. They design and lead training that supports candidates in achieving their qualifications and becoming confident, client-focused financial planning professionals.
Kenneth O’Donnell
Lead Training Manager
"I love seeing trainees grow in confidence and capability — it’s where real impact begins."
Career snapshot:
- Extensive experience in adviser development and regulatory training.
- Proven track record in strategic programme design and leadership development.
Brian Tiernan
Training Manager
"I love supporting our Academy advisers, especially when I hear how our work helps them succeed and make a real difference for their clients."
Career snapshot:
- Former Sales & Development Director at a leading Wealth Advice practice
- Extensive experience managing and delivering regulated advice training
Jon Edwards
Training Manager
"I'm dedicated to supporting and empowering trainees on their journey to becoming skilled advisers in a profession that makes a meaningful difference to clients lives."
Career snapshot:
- Extensive experience in training development and expertise in designing impactful programs that drive performance and compliance.
- 25+ years experience in financial services as Adviser, Trainer, Manger, and Support Specialist.e managing and delivering regulated advice training
Develop advisers as they progress through the Academy. They deliver training, observe client meetings, coach performance, and monitor key indicators to help advisers reach Competent Adviser Status. They support advisers from first client interactions through to ongoing development, ensuring excellent outcomes.
Stephanie Fox
Supervisor and Coach
“I get great satisfaction seeing the fast pace in which advisers develop and grow their business, throughout their Academy journey.”
Career snapshot:
- 25+ years’ experience in financial services as Adviser, Trainer, and Support Specialist.
- Proven track record in delivering customer outcomes and leading strategic change.
Diane Falconer
Supervisor and Coach
“I enjoy working with individuals who are driven to grow, develop, and become the best version of themselves as financial advisers.”
Career snapshot:
- 25 + years of experience in financial advice, sales leadership and key project and change management roles.
- Proven ability in driving customer outcomes through strategic change projects.
Colin Greacen
Supervisor and Coach
“It’s incredibly satisfying to support new advisers and see their journey from beginners to successful business owners.”
Career snapshot:
- Chartered Financial Planner with over 30 years’ experience advising clients.
- Specialist in adviser development, training and competence supervision.
Dean Faulkner
Supervisor and Coach
“Supporting people to grow and develop under my coaching gives me a great sense of satisfaction and pride”
Career snapshot:
- Over 30 years of experience in diverse roles within Financial Services, enabling adaptability to constant industry change.
- Chartered Financial Planner passionate about helping advisers deliver solutions that ensure good customer outcomes.
Paul Baillie
Supervisor and Coach
“Seeing new advisers grow into experienced advisers is a great achievement.”
Career snapshot:
- Experienced in financial services since 1997, ranging from advising clients and corporates as an IFA to Manager and Director of an IFA firm.
- Training and developing advisers since 2018, fostering growth and professional excellence.
Next steps
