Paddy & Scott’s welcomes new investor and strategic adviser

Simon Rees, a coffee-loving father of two, and his teacher wife live in Suffolk. His keen interest in the economy and financial markets was sparked during his university days, where he earned a degree in Economics. After graduating, Rees stepped into the financial services sector. His first role was analytical, but he soon found his way back to Suffolk, spurred by his wife’s teacher training journey.

In 2011, he embarked on his financial planning career with Gibbs Denley at its Cambridge office. By 2012, he had moved to the Bury St Edmunds office, where he headed up the financial planning team.

Under his leadership, Gibbs Denley flourished – culminating in its acquisition by Progeny as part of a global expansion strategy and now boasting over £7.5 billion in assets under management.

Rees is Group Managing Director and Chartered Financial Planner for Gibbs Denley Financial Services Ltd. In 2016, he was celebrated as one of the top 35 young advisers by New Model Adviser Magazine's Rising Stars.

Welcoming Rees to Paddy & Scott’s, CEO Jon Reed, says, "It's a proud moment to attract someone of Simon's calibre to our world. His expertise and experience mark a real step change, something we've sought for many years. This addition represents a huge leap forward for us.

“Simon is a proud Suffolk local with strong family values. As we set our course to build a business with real purpose, Simon will be instrumental in our ambition to fund one million school meals in coffee-growing regions.”

Rees adds: “Paddy & Scott’s is among Suffolk’s finest businesses, truly pushing boundaries and achieving a positive impact worldwide. Having met Jon and Zoe and witnessed their masterful execution of the MBO, I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to get involved.”