Gary Fawcett

Branch Principal

Gary has been looking after clients and their investments for over 23 years. He first became interested in finance at secondary school, where as part of a Yorkshire Bank programme, he volunteered to run a school bank branch. He later went on to study Business Studies at university, where he began to gain insight into the stock market and became fascinated with the movements of the markets. Over time, his focus and enjoyment shifted towards getting to know people and helping them to reach their financial aspirations.

When Gary isn’t focusing on his clients, he’s often busy connecting and collaborating with local businesses. You’ll also find him taking part in charity events and golf days. He is a member of the Newcastle United Foundation Business Board, a committee member of the regional Lord’s Taverners Committee, and a member of the Sick Children’s Trust’s Toon Council. Gary has also given guest lectures for Newcastle Business School at Northumbria University and has been a regular commentator on local and national media since 2007.

Gary lives with his wife Andrea and their three children – Elliot, Aidan and Abigail. They also share their home with three pets: Lincoln the labradoodle, Lily the rag doll cat and Scorch, the bearded dragon.

James Carrick

Chartered Wealth Manager

James has been looking after a wide range of clients and helping them with their financial goals and investments for seven years.

After studying Economics in his later years at school, James became fascinated by the importance of financial markets and how they impact everyday life. He later went on to study BSc Economics & Finance (International) at the University of Leeds. During his degree, he also completed a year of study abroad at the City University of Hong Kong.

After only two years into his career at RBC Brewin Dolphin, James fully qualified as a Chartered Wealth Manager. Since then, James has enjoyed developing his extensive network in his hometown of Newcastle upon Tyne to help people achieve their financial goals.

He is extremely proud to offer a truly bespoke, locally managed approach to looking after individuals, families, entrepreneurs and local businesses with their investments.

When not in the office, James is often busy connecting with the local community outdoors on the golf course, or at various charity and networking events.

In his spare time, James enjoys pursuing his passion for travel as well as keeping himself fit through a wide range of sports.

Rob Brotherton

Chartered Wealth Manager

Rob has worked in financial services for over 25 years and has always demonstrated a head for numbers. Studying business studies and specialising in finance at university sparked an interest in investments, markets and the wider economy, which in turn led to a career in wealth management.

Rob enjoys getting to know his clients in order to tailor solutions to their individual circumstances and needs. He is a Chartered Financial Planner and a Chartered Wealth Manager.

Outside of work, Rob has always been a keen sportsman, although his preference these days is for nothing more energetic than a round of golf.

Rob lives with his wife, Gemma, and together they enjoy time exploring Northumberland’s spectacular coastline and historic attractions.

Michael Rankin

Chartered Wealth Manager

Michael first gained an interest in finance while working for Barclays, which was his first job following university. After spending some time working for Barclays Stockbrokers in Glasgow, he returned to the Northeast to take a job within the Teesside office of Wise Speke.

During his time with the company, Michael progressed to the position of Divisional Director, firstly while in the Teesside office and again after moving to the Newcastle office in 2014. Over the past two decades, Michael has built strong relationships with all his clients and prides himself on providing a high quality service, which he is very keen to continue following his move to Raymond James, Monument.

After spending 10 years living in North Yorkshire, Michael is now back living in Newcastle. When he isn’t helping clients, he enjoys traveling with his partner, both locally and further afield.

Jason Ryan

Senior Investment Assistant

Jason has worked in financial services for over 32 years. His interest in finance first developed after studying Business Studies and working at Co-Operative Bank from 1990. Since then, Jason has enjoyed an extensive career in investment management, demonstrating his passion for numbers as well as people.

As a Senior Investment Assistant, Jason uses his extensive experience to support the team to help clients reach their financial aspirations, delivering a first-class client service throughout.

When not in the office, Jason follows his beloved football closely. He always been an avid sportsman and often spends his time playing the odd game of 11-a-side football and golf.

Jason lives with his wife Joanne and son Jack where together, they enjoy visiting local attractions of the National Trust and beautiful beaches.

Alison Hedley

Wealth Manager Trainee

After graduating from the University of Edinburgh with an MA in French & Business in 2021, Alison immersed herself into the world of investment management, in which, she has now gained two years of hands-on experience. Alison thoroughly enjoys looking after clients and helping the team in tailoring bespoke solutions to the needs of clients.

As part of Alison’s development towards becoming a Chartered Wealth Manager, she has recently achieved her Investment Advice Diploma and is currently working towards the Level 7 Chartered Wealth Manager exams which will allow her to deliver bespoke advice and, further develop her knowledge of the industry.

In her free time, Alison is a keen violinist and has played in many orchestras across Scotland, and she has continued to play in several ensembles around Northumberland.