Welcome to an insightful conversation with Priya Jaiswal, a distinguished expert in Banking, Business, and Finance, known for her sharp insights into market analysis, portfolio management, and international business trends. Today, we’re diving into the recent expansion of Structured Financial Planning with their new office in Banchory, Aberdeenshire. In this interview, Priya shares her perspective on the strategic importance of this move, the firm’s client-centered philosophy, and the unique challenges of retirement planning. We’ll explore how the company’s growth reflects evolving client needs, their holistic approach to financial advice, and the personal connection behind bringing these services to the Deeside community. Let’s get started.
What inspired Structured Financial Planning to expand with a new office in Banchory, and how did this location emerge as the ideal choice?
The decision to open in Banchory was driven by a clear recognition of growing demand in the Deeside area. Many existing clients are already based there, and there’s an increasing need for accessible, face-to-face financial advice. Banchory stood out as a vibrant community with a strategic position in the North East, making it a natural fit for expansion. It’s about being where the clients are and ensuring they can have those important conversations about their future in a convenient, local setting.
Can you walk us through the origins of Structured Financial Planning and the vision that started it all over 20 years ago in Banff?
The firm was founded with a straightforward yet impactful goal: to demystify finances and help people lead more fulfilling lives through trusted advice. Back in Banff, the vision was to build a practice rooted in personal connection and tailored guidance. It was about seeing money not just as numbers, but as a tool for achieving dreams and security. That core idea has guided the company from a small local outfit to a trusted name supporting over 300 clients today.
How has the firm evolved since its early days to meet the needs of such a diverse client base?
Over the years, the firm has adapted by deepening its expertise and expanding its reach while staying true to a client-first mindset. They’ve grown their team, refined their processes, and embraced a more comprehensive approach to planning that looks at every aspect of a client’s life. This evolution reflects a commitment to staying relevant—whether it’s navigating new tax laws or understanding shifting retirement trends—while maintaining the personal touch that’s always defined their work.
As a resident of Banchory yourself, what does heading this new office mean on a personal level?
It’s incredibly rewarding to bring such a vital service to my own community. There’s a unique sense of pride in knowing that I can help neighbors and friends plan for their future right here on the high street. It feels like a homecoming of sorts—combining my professional passion with a personal connection to the area, and I’m thrilled to see the impact we can make together.
Can you describe what a “holistic, relationship-driven approach” looks like in the day-to-day work with clients?
It means looking beyond just the numbers and understanding the full picture of a client’s life—their goals, fears, family dynamics, and aspirations. In practice, it’s about sitting down for honest conversations, listening more than talking, and building trust over time. Every recommendation or plan stems from that relationship, ensuring it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution but something that truly fits their unique circumstances.
How do you ensure that financial advice is personalized for each individual or couple you work with?
Personalization starts with deep discovery—asking the right questions to uncover what matters most to them. We consider everything from their lifestyle preferences to their long-term dreams and even their risk tolerance. Then, we craft strategies that align with those specifics, whether it’s building a retirement fund or planning a legacy. It’s an ongoing dialogue, not a one-time transaction, so we can adjust as their life evolves.
What are some of the biggest challenges people face in the years leading up to retirement, and how do you help address them?
In the pre-retirement phase, many grapple with uncertainty—whether they’ve saved enough, how to transition from earning to spending, or how to time their exit from work. We help by creating clarity through detailed projections and actionable steps. It’s about maximizing those final working years, optimizing savings, and setting up a roadmap so they can step into retirement with confidence rather than doubt.
Once clients reach retirement, how do you guide them in accessing their income in a tax-efficient way?
Post-retirement, the focus shifts to drawing income smartly. We analyze their various income sources—pensions, investments, and other assets—and design withdrawal strategies that minimize tax burdens. This might involve staggering withdrawals or leveraging specific allowances. The goal is to ensure they keep more of their hard-earned money while maintaining a sustainable lifestyle.
What does it mean to give clients “permission to enjoy their money,” and why is that such a key part of your mission?
Many retirees feel guilty or anxious about spending, even when they’ve saved diligently. Giving them “permission” is about shifting that mindset—showing them through solid planning that it’s okay to enjoy the fruits of their labor, whether that’s travel, hobbies, or spoiling grandkids. It’s important because retirement should be a time of joy and purpose, not constant worry about every dollar spent.
What are some common fears retirees face, and how does your firm help transform those worries into confidence?
Retirees often fear outliving their savings, unexpected health costs, or not leaving enough for loved ones. We tackle these by building robust plans that account for longevity, include buffers for emergencies, and balance current enjoyment with future security. Through regular reviews and open communication, we help them see their financial reality clearly, replacing anxiety with a sense of control and peace of mind.
Can you tell us about the team at the Banchory office and how their collaboration enhances the client experience?
The Banchory team is a tight-knit group with complementary skills, from deep financial expertise to a genuine knack for connecting with people. They work together seamlessly, often collaborating with local professionals like solicitors and accountants to provide well-rounded advice. This teamwork ensures clients get a cohesive, thorough experience—every angle of their financial life is considered, and nothing slips through the cracks.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for the future of financial planning in communities like Banchory?
I see financial planning becoming even more integral in smaller, close-knit communities like Banchory. As populations age and economic complexities grow, the demand for localized, personalized advice will only increase. Technology will play a role, but the heart of it will remain in trusted relationships. Firms that can blend accessibility with deep expertise—much like what’s happening here—will be key in helping people navigate their financial futures with confidence.
