James Curry: The ultra runner IFA ranked among the UK's best

James has a background in accounting, finance, and economics, but what really sets him apart is his ability to break down complex financial decisions into clear, practical advice.

Specialising in later-life financial planning, he’s become a trusted adviser for individuals and families looking for guidance on care costs, inheritance planning, and making their retirement income last.

And when he’s not working with clients, you’ll likely find James running up a mountain. A passionate fell runner, he thrives on endurance challenges in the Lake District, something that requires a mindset he carries over into his financial planning: strategic, disciplined, and always focused on the long term.

James didn’t set out to become a financial planner, but looking back, he can see how naturally he was drawn to the profession. After studying accounting, finance, and economics at the University of Kent, he realised the rigid structure of accounting wasn’t for him. “I wanted something that engaged both my analytical side and love for working with people,” he explains.

An internship as a paraplanner was his first step into financial planning, and from there, he went on to work with Zurich Insurance and an investment house, gaining experience and qualifications along the way. However, it wasn’t until he started advising clients directly that he found his true calling. “I love solving problems, but what really motivates me is seeing the impact a well-considered financial plan can have on people’s lives.”

James stands out not only for his experience but also for his exceptional qualifications.

He has been a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) since 2021, and is one of only a few hundred financial advisers in the UK to hold the Later Life Adviser Accreditation (LLAA) from the Society of Later Life Advisers (SOLLA).

More recently, he has dedicated his personal time to achieving the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) Level 7 Diploma in Advanced Financial Planning – the equivalent of a Master’s degree.

“For me, qualifications aren’t just about titles,” James says. “They give my clients confidence that they’re getting advice from someone who has invested heavily in their expertise. Financial planning is a profession, not just a job, and I believe in setting the highest standards.”

James specialises in helping families navigate the complexities of care funding and estate planning. “This kind of planning is incredibly personal,” he says. “It’s not just about money – it’s about making sure someone’s final years are as comfortable and dignified as possible. Families come to me at an emotionally challenging time, and my role is to provide clarity and reassurance.”

James often works with clients whose families are uncertain about their financial situation. “I had one client whose son arrived at our first meeting with a plastic bag stuffed full of paperwork, some of it dating back to the 1960s,” he recalls.

“It took months to piece everything together, but in the end, we created a plan that ensured his mother’s care costs would be covered for life. The relief on his face when he realised she was going to be okay – that’s what makes this job so rewarding.”

In addition to later-life planning, James is increasingly helping local farmers who are concerned about changes to agricultural inheritance tax. “Where I live, farming isn’t just a business – it’s a way of life, passed down through generations,” he explains. “Many of these families are asset-rich but cash-poor, and they’re terrified that new tax rules will force them to sell land that has been in their family for over a century.”

His approach is always to simplify complexity. “I don’t believe in using jargon,” he says. “My job is to make financial planning accessible, not overwhelming. I want my clients to leave our meetings feeling empowered, not confused.”

James believes that financial planning has evolved significantly over the years. “It used to be all about products – now, it’s about the bigger picture. The plan comes first, then the tax strategy, and only then do we look at products.”

One of the things he enjoys most is telling clients they can afford to retire. “So many people worry about running out of money, even when they don’t need to,” he says. “I love being able to show them, ‘Look, you’re going to be fine. You can stop working and enjoy your life.’”

Outside of work, James’ fell running is a passion that played a major role in his decision to move to the Lake District. “My wife and I always thought we’d retire here,” he says. “Then we realised – why wait?”

He’s currently training for the Bob Graham Round, a gruelling 66-mile challenge that involves summiting 42 of the highest peaks in the Lake District within 24 hours. “It’s a good challenge,” he says. “But I love pushing myself, setting goals, and seeing what I’m capable of. I guess that’s true in my work as well – helping people see what’s possible, and then making it happen.”