Rory Stuart

Background

About Rory Stuart

Growing up I saw how hard my parents worked to build their businesses to support our big family (I am one of 6). I observed and experienced their wins and losses and how hard it often was for all of us. I therefore have always valued money and the freedom it can give people. This is definitely what has shaped my relationship with money. My parents encouraged us to choose the safest route possible, and I think that each individual needs to balance their choices in working and earning, with quality of life, health, and opportunities to learn. Upon graduation from university, I worked for a short period in the financial fraud department at the Bank of America, and then I came across an opportunity at what was to become Sanlam (now atomos). In fact I was going through some rigorous interview processes for 3 career options (this was finance, and the others were in retail and logistics)(My heart was set on a career in the RAF but I have a nut allergy so had to cross that off the list) So, I was faced in the end with 3 really tempting job offers. I chose the finance option because the interviewer drew out for me the career path in financial services. It made it more tangible and relatable – almost like the “safer” option. I am glad I chose to go in this direction, as now I have enjoyed my career in finance which has given me a standard of living far beyond what I experienced when I was growing up. Joining the industry, I learned from others about wealth creation. I started saving, paying into a pension, and investing in property. I also started enjoying my life more. I understood that it doesn’t make sense to wait until retirement to have interesting and unique experiences. It's a balancing act between living in the now and planning for the future. Now I have even started investing in a couple of businesses which has given me new insights on innovations in technology and an understanding of the life of many of my clients. Over the past 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse range of clients, helping them navigate major life decisions and achieve their financial dreams. At atomos, we believe in putting clients first and speaking in a language they understand. Many people fear their money and have never given a second thought to their financial goals. We help clients take control of their money by designing a financial plan based on their personal goals, life, and ambitions.