For over 20 years, we've helped individuals, families and businesses plan for the future with confidence. Combining specialist expertise with a personal, approachable service, we provide independent financial advice and employee benefits solutions shaped around the needs and priorities of those we support.
Behind every number is a team of people dedicated to helping our clients make confident decisions. Our experience, professional qualifications and commitment to personal service reflect the care and expertise we bring to every relationship.
3,000+
24 years
73%
62%
Whether you're making plans for yourself and your family or looking after the people in your business, we're here to help. Through independent financial planning and employee benefits advice, we provide the knowledge, guidance and personal support you need to make confident decisions about the future.
Whatever stage of life you're at, we're here to help you make confident financial decisions. With expert, independent advice tailored to your circumstances, we can help you plan for the future and enjoy greater peace of mind.
Plan for the retirement you want, with confidence and peace of mind.
Make the most of your money with a savings and investment strategy shaped around your goals.
Discover what our clients have to say about their experience with Acumen.
“We’ve been with Acumen Financial Planning for over 10 years and are very happy with the service and advice received. Our planner is fully aware of our financial situation, takes an interest in our family’s circumstances, and is approachable, knowledgeable, and efficient.”
a client of Steven Milne
“When my previous planner retired, they recommended Acumen. I had no real knowledge about long-term financial planning, but my new planner helped me see the impact of our choices through to retirement and beyond. They’ve even begun advising our son, taking his generation’s needs into account. The advice has helped me make decisions I never would have considered, and our investments have far exceeded expectations.”
a client of Andrew Sutherland
“I was referred by my previous adviser who had personal experience with Acumen’s work. I needed guidance as we transitioned into retirement. My planner has been invaluable in helping us achieve a stable income to supplement our pensions. We’ve gained a clear long-term financial view and seen results beyond what we expected.”
a client of David Gow
“David has been my only financial adviser, and I truly don’t think he could have done anything better. With a career in oil and gas across various countries and complex tax situations, I needed serious financial planning. My planner adapted to all my circumstances and set annual goals. His professionalism and ability to simplify complex issues have been a huge help. The outcomes we aimed for have absolutely been delivered.”
a client of David Gow
“My wife and I first met our planner two years ago to explore retirement options. They presented our financial position clearly and professionally without any hard sell. After a redundancy concern arose, they explained the potential impact and offered helpful pointers. The support has been friendly and professional throughout, and we’re very happy with the guidance received.”
a client of Peter Hope
“During our annual review, my planner provided a very clear picture of our retirement planning and explained complex financial information in a simple way, enabling us to make better decisions. This long-standing relationship has been consistently positive.”
a client of Peter Hope
“When our previous IFA retired and recommended Acumen Financial Planning, we met with our new planner and have stayed ever since. They are knowledgeable, approachable, and a reliable sounding board—especially when I retired earlier than planned. From pensions to insurance and savings, the advice is clear and backed up with data and insight, and we’ve seen the results we hoped for.”
a client of David Gow
“I received clear, friendly, and approachable advice from my planner. The guidance on financial planning was sound, and everything was explained thoroughly. I couldn’t have asked for better service.”
a client of Andrew Sutherland
“I wanted to reduce the stress around financial decision-making and plan properly for the future. My planner has been incredibly reassuring, thoughtful, and professional, with deep expertise and a personal approach that ties advice back to my goals. The annual review process is detailed but easy to understand, and the focus on long-term planning, even during uncertain times, is very reassuring.”
a client of David Gow
“I had a long-term plan for my life and started working with Acumen Financial Planning in my mid-20s. Now in my 40s, we’ve essentially achieved our financial dreams – early retirement, a second home, and a secure lifestyle. The advice has always been clear and well-considered, and even when we haven’t followed every suggestion, we’ve achieved everything we hoped for with their support.”
a client of David Gow
“After a poor experience with a previous adviser, I searched the local market and connected with someone I felt I could trust. Acumen Financial Planning now helps me view my finances holistically, using tools that bring clarity and help map potential outcomes. We’re now in a significantly better financial position than when we started.”
a client of David Gow
“Our ultimate goal is to help our clients enjoy life today without worrying about tomorrow. We do the heavy lifting, navigating the numbers, tax rules and complex regulations, so our clients can focus on what really matters. For us, retirement planning isn't just about the funds, it's about giving people the confidence and financial freedom to live the life they want.”
Julie Morrison
Financial Planner
Your people are at the heart of your business. We help you look after them with tailored employee benefits solutions that support their wellbeing, reward their contribution and help your business thrive.
Help your employees plan for a more secure retirement with a workplace pension scheme that works for your business
Give your people greater choice with flexible benefits tailored to their needs and your business.
Support healthier, happier employees with wellbeing solutions that help your people and business thrive.
Discover what our clients have to say about working with Acumen Employee Benefits, from the relationships we've built to the difference our advice and support has made to their businesses and people.
"Acumen Employee Benefits went through our current benefits offering and made significant cost savings to the company for the same level of benefit.”
2022
“The team are very knowledgeable and provide us with a great service. Nothing is too much trouble for them.”
2022
“We feel that Acumen Employee Benefits has our interests at heart and provides solutions and answers which may be more to our benefit than theirs. They know our people and our business. There is two-way open dialogue and this is important when dealing with matters concerning people’s finances. Their advice is not only sound but practical.”
Head of HR @ Peterson, 2023
“I cannot thank Acumen Employee Benefits enough, as they helped clarify the law around benefit packages and what my responsibilities are. They highlighted what it would mean for my business if I did not act swiftly with regard to implementing the Group Life Cover I had looked to introduce for my staff – and they helped me to secure a better auto-enrolment pension for the staff who are in my workplace pension scheme.”
September 2023
“Looking after your people is one of the most important investments a business can make. We take the time to understand your business and your team, helping you put the right benefits in place to support employee wellbeing, attract and retain talent, and contribute to your business's long-term success.”
Andy Eason
Head of Employee Benefits
Explore our latest news, insights and practical guidance to help you make informed decisions about your financial future.
Practical habits to help young professionals build financial foundations and plan for long-term wealth.
Read more
Key dates, potential penalties and practical steps for completing your 2024/25 Self Assessment tax return.
Read more
Why the gender pensions gap persists, and what it means for women’s long-term financial security.
Read more
Great people are at the heart of what we do. We're proud of our supportive, collaborative culture, where everyone's contribution is valued and there's room to learn, grow and make a difference.
Whether you're starting your career or looking for your next opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.
“Good financial planning starts with understanding what matters most to you, so you can live well today and feel ready for tomorrow.”
Wendy Morrison
Financial Planner
Find answers to some of our most frequently asked questions. If you can't find what you're looking for, our team is here to help. Simply get in touch and we'll be happy to answer your questions.
What does a financial planner do?
A financial planner helps you make the most of your money, whatever stage of life you're at. From planning for retirement and managing investments to protecting your family's future, we're here to help you make confident financial decisions and enjoy greater peace of mind.
Do I need to be wealthy to benefit from financial planning?
Not at all. Financial planning isn't just for people with significant wealth. It's about making the most of what you have and planning for the future you want. Whether you're starting out, building your savings or approaching retirement, we're here to help.
When should I start financial planning?
It's never too early or too late to start. Whether you're taking your first steps towards financial independence, planning for a big life change or thinking about retirement, having a clear financial plan can help you feel more confident about what's ahead.
What can Acumen Financial Planning help me with?
We offer a wide range of financial planning services, including retirement planning, investments and savings, estate planning, tax planning and advice, and intergenerational wealth planning. We take the time to understand what's important to you and create a plan that reflects your individual circumstances and goals.
How much does financial advice cost?
We believe in being open and transparent about our fees. The cost of financial advice will depend on your individual needs and the services you require. We'll explain our fees clearly before you make any commitments, so you know exactly what to expect.
What happens at my first meeting with a financial planner?
Your first meeting is simply an opportunity for us to get to know each other. We'll listen to what's important to you, understand your financial circumstances and talk about what you'd like to achieve. There's no need to have everything figured out before we meet. That's what we're here to help with.
Can you help me if I already have a financial adviser?
Of course. Whether you're looking for a fresh perspective, your circumstances have changed or you're considering a different approach to your finances, we'd be happy to have a conversation about how we could help.
Where is Acumen Financial Planning based?
We have offices in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Elgin, supporting individuals, families and businesses across Scotland and beyond. Whether you prefer to meet in person or have a conversation remotely, we're here to make financial planning as straightforward and accessible as possible.
